American Post 240 held a celebration dinner on Thursday, April 4, which was attended by approximately 60 people. The meal was prepared by Bella Pizza and served by Lee Minnix and “The Sunshine Girls.”
After the dinner, the award presentations began. Two Lord Botetourt male students and one female student who attended Boy’s State and Girl’s State were award certificates of accomplishment. The students were Caleb Franklin, James Lively, and Olivia Griffin. Anne Ranson, Lord Botetourt guidance counselor, was recognized for her work in reviewing the Lord Botetourt applicants.
The next students recognized were James River senior Addison McCaleb and Bridgette West. Addison won the American Legion Post 240/93 Raymond A. Gabay Memorial Scholarship and Bridgette West won the MAAG/Gala Industries/Post 240 Patriot Scholarship. Anne Simmons was recognized for her work in reviewing the applications and selecting the two scholarship recipients.
The next segment of the awards ceremony was directed to honor Jack Cassell. Jack is a WWII and Korean Conflict veteran who was celebrating his 95th birthday. Lee Minnix of the Sunshine Girls led a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” to Jack and assisted him cutting a birthday cake.
The final part of the awards ceremony was devoted to the Blue Star Program. A Blue Star pennant is awarded to a parent who has a child serving in the military. Terry Tucker awarded a Blue Star pennant to Shawanna Franklin, who has a son serving in the Air Force, and Vickie West, who has a son serving in the Navy.
Special guests at this event were the Honorable Paul Tucker, Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court Judge; Donna McCaleb, Botetourt County School Board member, and Botetourt Sheriff Matt Ward.
Post 240 thanks all those in attendance and to the folks who assisted in planning this highly successful event.
