Wednesday, April 15, 2009 | 4:25 p.m.
Boulder City Post 31 of the American Legion has finally received its shipment of new rifles for use by the honor guard. More than any other post in the state, Post 31 is called upon for the firing squad at the Nevada State Veterans Cemetery. Sometimes the request to provide the last honor for a veteran doesn't come until the day before the ceremony, but Commander Doug McHam is able to find a faithful few who will turn out to provide a patriot his last salute.
The new shipment consists of 10 M-1 Garands. These are not the latest in weaponry, but to the Post 31 members who have been struggling with the old World War I rifles, it's almost like a look into the future. The M-1 is automatic and it's not necessary to lock and load between rounds. The old rifles were not only heavy and awkward, but often misfired.
Two guests from Post 149 in Las Vegas visited Post 31 at Legion Hall during the post's regular monthly meeting April 7. Post 149 Commander Vic Moss was soliciting support for his candidacy as Nevada State Department 1st Vice Commander. He stated he was a 20-year veteran of the Air Force, retired as a master sergeant, and still served in the Nevada National Guard. He was also a founding member of the Legion Riders, an organization of bikers who attend veterans' funerals to guard against groups of war protestors disturbing a veteran's last honor.
He was accompanied by fellow Post 149 member and Legion Rider Timothy Cooper, also a member of the National Guard.
At the meeting, McHam presented longtime Adjutant Bob Dow his 25-year membership badge and Past Commander Clayton Glenn his 65-year membership badge. Glenn is among the longest-serving veterans in the American Legion, which just celebrated its 90th birthday.
Nominating Committee Chairman Jack Belleau reported that the committee has a candidate for every office except that of commander. Larry Rohlfs has been nominated for 1st Vice Commander; Dave Mulligan, 2nd Vice Commander; Ruth Taylor, Chaplain; Joe Bowyer, Adjutant; Linda Robertshaw, Finance Officer; Belleau, Sgt. at Arms; and Howard Scott, Judge Advocate.
Belleau said they are working on drafting a commander candidate and have two firmly in their sights. He hopes to report a candidate by the next meeting. Offices are still open for nomination from the floor.
Clayton Glenn reported that there is a move to change grass to desert landscaping at the veterans' cemetery, but pointed out that most veterans prefer the grass and they are fighting the move. He quoted one veteran as saying, "You might as well just throw me in a ditch."
Service Officer Nancy Nollette reported that four of the previously unmarked veterans graves at the Boulder City Cemetery now have markers, but there are still four to go. The problem is getting the service records and necessary papers of the four from the War Department. She can't find relatives to make the request as required.
Nollette also continues her meetings at the senior center the second Wednesday of every month to discuss and explain veterans' benefits and how to get them. She reports excellent attendance.
The next regular meeting of Post 31 will be May 5 at 7 p.m., at Legion Hall. All veterans are welcome.
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