American Legion Post 100 in Union recently supported an event honoring veterans at the Sweet Springs Resort on 17 September 2022. The park organized a bike rally and classic car drive-in event that included vendors, games, tours of the historic Sweet Springs Resort, live music, and remarks appropriate to the occasion by veterans. Among the featured speakers was the Post’s Vice Commander, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Scott E. Womack. Legionnaire Chris Johnson was also present and was interviewed by a regional news outlet.
As the event coincided with U.S. Constitution Day, both Legionnaires wore clothing appropriate to the year of its signing in 1787 and distributed copies of it. Legionnaire Johnson set up a canvas fly and flew the “Betsy Ross” and “Bennington” flags, while Legionnaire Womack rode the grounds on his trusty horse, Junior. As Sweet Springs has close ties to leaders of that era, the setting was fitting and the hospitality unmatched.
Colonel Womack’s remarks included mention of the fact that the oath or affirmation U.S. Military personnel take is to support and defend the U.S. Constitution rather than a particular president, party, legislative body, or deity. In this it is unique. He further noted that upon completion of the Constitutional Convention Benjamin Franklin reportedly answered the question “What have you wrought?” with the quip, “A Republic, if you can keep it.” The sense of the word “keep” in 1787 was much more expansive than it is today and was more akin to “keeping house.” Colonel Womack noted that merely voting every two years was inadequate to the task of keeping the Constitution vital. Indeed, it requires constant engagement in the democratic process at all levels by active participation in civic groups such as the American Legion, attendance at meetings of local officials, regular communication with representatives, and actively seeking primary resource information rather than relying on news outlets and social media to remain informed.
The American Legion is nonpartisan and open to veterans of any branch of service and era, including those currently serving. The American Legion supports veterans and their families, patriotism, and youth education. If you are interested in joining us in this vital mission and assisting with programs like the one described above contact Scott Womack at scott_womack@hotmail.com or via Facebook Messenger.