Veterans in assisted living honored by Queen Creek American Legion post

The Queen Creek American Legion Post 129, Legion Riders and auxiliary have teamed up to honor local veterans who are residents in Queen Creek assisted living facilities.

Organized by Auxiliary Chaplain Becky Overlin, the group recently visited Countryside Assisted Living and presented 13 veterans with certificates of appreciation, challenge coins, gift bags filled with their favorite goodies, and blankets embroidered with their branch of service.

The veterans – and several additional residents of the facility – also came outside to enjoy a mini-parade as the Legion Riders looped through the drive on their motorcycles three times in salute to those who served.

“Thank you with all my heart,” said Hannah Smith, wife of veteran Richard Smith. “I know you made him very happy.”

The Duane Ellsworth American Legion Post 129 has served Queen Creek since 2005. post programs focus on assisting and uplifting veterans, their families, the community and the nation’s youth. Meetings are held at 9 a.m., the third Saturday of each month at the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce, 22246 S. Ellsworth Road.

The auxiliary, which is open to spouses, grandmothers, mothers, sisters and daughters of veterans, meets at  6 p.m., on the second Thursday of each month at the chamber. 

The Legion Riders group, which is open to Post members and Auxiliary members who have a valid motorcycle license and a motorcycle, meets at 11 a.m., the first Saturday of each month after working at the United Food Bank Volunteer Center in Mesa. The location of meetings can vary, so call Jay Duarte at  916-899-3369 or email jdsailorman@gmail.com for more information.

To learn more about the American Legion in Queen Creek, visit queencreeklegion.com or contact info@queencreeklegion.com. For more information about the auxiliary, email executiveboard-aux@queencreeklegion.com.