Morehead American Legion Honor Guard: A Legacy of Service

The American Legion, founded in 1919, began as a group of World War I veterans and has grown into one of the most influential nonprofit organizations in the U.S. With over 1.6 million members across 12,000 posts worldwide, the Legion is dedicated to supporting veterans, service members, and communities. It has played a vital role in securing benefits and services for those who served. Our local post has been active since 1929 and currently has around 200 members.

A History of Advocacy and Achievements

Throughout its history, the American Legion has been instrumental in advancing veterans’ rights and benefits. Some of its key contributions include:

• 1921: Advocated for the creation of the U.S. Veterans Bureau, a precursor to today’s Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

• 1920s: Raised awareness of post-war mental health conditions, paving the way for better veteran healthcare.

• 1944: Played a pivotal role in drafting the G.I. Bill, which transformed veterans’ access to education, housing, and economic opportunities.

These are just a few of the many critical advancements the Legion has made to support America’s veterans.

Our Local Honor Guard

Within Morehead American Legion Post 126, a dedicated group of volunteer veterans serve in the Honor Guard, performing ceremonial duties as a tribute to both veterans and the community.

• The current Honor Guard Commander for Rowan County is Ronnie Jack Brooks.

• The Morehead American Legion Post 126 Commander is Sadie Louise.

• Judge/Executive Harry T. Clark previously served as Post Commander for seven years before his election to office.

Community Service and Memorial Tributes

The Honor Guard is deeply involved in honoring veterans and preserving their legacy. In partnership with Post 126, they:

• Place flags on veterans’ graves each Memorial Day to honor their service and sacrifice.

• Provide free American flags for veterans buried in private cemeteries upon request.

• Assist with the Rowan County Veterans Museum, one of the most distinguished veteran museums in the region.

• Work with the Rowan County Veterans Foundation to maintain Freedom Park, ensuring a pristine space to honor local veterans.

Ceremonial Services and Military Funerals

The Honor Guard plays a crucial role in military funerals, ensuring fallen service members receive the respect and recognition they deserve.

Funeral Ceremonies

The ceremony begins at the funeral home, where each Honor Guard member renders a final salute to the fallen soldier. The last individual to salute places a single red rose with the veteran, donated by Atkinson Florist.

In some cases, they also provide chaplain services and serve as pallbearers, easing the burden on grieving families.

Graveside Honors

• The Honor Guard performs the 21-Gun Salute, Taps, and presents the folded U.S. flag to the veteran’s next of kin.

• Their precise and solemn execution of these duties leaves no doubt about the deep respect and gratitude owed to the deceased veteran.

• While primarily serving Rowan County veterans, the Honor Guard is often requested to perform these services in surrounding counties and at the Eastern Kentucky Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Flag Presentation Cases

• The Honor Guard presents a cased American flag to every fallen veteran’s family free of charge.

• This meaningful tradition is a community effort, with local businesses donating materials.

• Harold White Lumber provides the wood,

• Glover Glass donates the glass, and Lowe’s supplies plywood for the case backing.

• Eddie Johnson (Ole Seasons Shoppe) engraves a brass nameplate with the veteran’s name, dates of service, and military branch.

• The cases are handcrafted by JR Watson and David Burchett.

• Once the flag is folded at graveside, it is carefully placed inside the custom-made case, serving as a lasting symbol of honor and sacrifice for the family.

Veteran Support and Community Outreach

The Morehead American Legion goes beyond ceremonies, offering ongoing support to local veterans.

• A certified service officer is available every Wednesday at the VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic to help veterans navigate VA claims and benefits.

• Service Officers: Terry Hall & Larry Porter. (Larry Porter - former Post Commander)

American Legion Community Involvement

Our local American Legion Post 126 is highly active in the community, providing support and resources to veterans and their families. Some of their many initiatives include:

• Sponsoring the Memorial Day Parade.

• Hosting a Christmas Toy Drive for children in need.

• Donating hams and turkeys to the Rowan County School System and Gateway House for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

• Supporting local high school Military Studies students through sponsorships and donations.

• Participating in school events such as essay contests and Veterans Day programs.

• Supporting the “Say Boo to Drugs” Halloween event to promote drug-free awareness.

Additionally, the American Legion hosts a weekly breakfast that is free to all veterans at their post, located at: 140 American Legion Way, Morehead, KY 40351 (formerly 156 Old Cranston Rd.)

A Century of Dedication

For over 100 years, the American Legion has remained steadfast in its mission to honor and support veterans. Rowan County is fortunate to have such dedicated individuals serving our community, and we extend our deepest gratitude to every veteran for their service and sacrifice.

If you are a veteran or interested in supporting our mission, we encourage you to visit us—we would love to welcome you.

Article by Dawn Sargent & Harry T. Clark.