The American Legion Post 208 is part of the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization

DIXON, CA (MPG) - The American Legion Post 208 will officially be led with a strong arm. Literally, thanks to the newly installed Post Commander Robert Strong, a Dixonite since 1997 and U.S. Air Force veteran who was installed this past week in an official ceremony with numerous other leaders.

The ceremony led by Norm Shontz, reminded officers that “there is no rank among us” and recited the oath that all agreed: “I am not a member or affiliated in any way with any group opposed to our government.”

Strong is a huge Raiders fan and loves motorcycles, he said, both interests shared by former Commander Greg Coppes, now deceased, who influenced Strong into Dixon’s Post about nine years ago. He was drawn by the organization’s activities they do for outreach, he said, especially the Veterans Stand Down.

He’s a member of the Napa Solano Veteran Riders, participates in fundraisers such as the annual fireworks booth, and enjoys the camaraderie built at the Friday night dinners.

“My goals are to get this facility up to par and get more young active military members coming to enjoy the place,” Strong said. He’s the father of two grown children, one an Eagle Scout.

“He met the one requirement we have for leadership: He wanted to be the Commander,” said former Post Commander Wayne Holland with a big laugh. “I’m all for [his goals]. We can grow our post and put some new blood and youth in our post because we are growing older.”

Strong, who works full time for an insurance company, is looking into what kind of events might draw the community into the facility that rents out and helps support veterans activities.

The hall suffered significant financial losses this past year when the pandemic shut down their main income stream which was hall rental for quinceañeras and weddings. The veteran’s popular Friday night dinners serve as a social connection for the community but are also fundraisers and feature Roger Schaller’s live music. The menu changes each week and costs only $10 except for the steak dinner which is $17.

The American Legion Post 208 is part of the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization that was chartered by Congress in 1919 committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.

Active or retired military interested in joining are invited to attend meetings held every first Wed of the month at 7 pm at the Veterans Memorial Hall, 1305 North First Street across from DuPratt Ford. For more information, call (707) 678-6308. Or, for hall rental information, call Holland at (707) 301-0941 or email [email protected].