American Legion Post 172 breaks ground for new building
Participating in the ground breaking are, from left: Don Moore, Commander, Post 172 Legion Riders; Rick Lou, Commander, Post 172; Leon Jaquet, Post 172 Service Officer; Bill Clay, Post Member; Bear Stephenson, Post Member; Terry Shores, Post 172 Build- ing Committee Chairman; Willie Maloney, Post 172 Riders member & Tommy Saffles, Post 172 Chaplain.
The post property is located at 436 Spring Street in Clinton.
The Anderson County American Legion Post 172 has been a community staple located on Spring Street in Clinton since 1938 when the property was donated to the American Legion by the H. C. Slover family.
“When the property was donated one of the conditions was that it be used for American Legion activities, Post Service Officer Leon Jaquet said.
Jaquet noted the original log cabin that was donated with the property by the Slover family is still standing.
Jaquet said the new building, encompassing almost 2,500 square feet, will have a main meeting/banquet room, offices, restrooms, and kitchen area.
There is no “set” schedule for completion, but Jaquet said he believes the building will be completed by late summer/early fall.
All funds for the post — including those for the new building — are through donations only.
“Donations are always accepted,” Jaquet said. “The new building isn’t the end. We have to maintain and upkeep the building and we are always here to help veterans in need of assistance.”
Jaquet said that assistance covers a wide range.
“We help support veterans ... We do what we can.”
The American Legion is open to all military members who served Honorably since Dec 7, 1941 – Pearl Harbor through present day. The Post meets the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Clinton Community Center until the new building is completed.
Interested in joining, contact the American Legion Post Commander Rick Lou at 423-561-0716 or Post Service Officer Leon Jaquet at 865-556-0997.
Article and picture submitted by Leon Jaquet, Post 172 Service Officer. Additional content by Ken Leinart.