Fogbow

Oldies radio reports that the local North Fork American Legion post is closing after over 100 years.

Sustained for decades by WW I, WW II and Korean War veterans the post, like so many others, had trouble recruiting Vietnam War and later veterans.

There seems to have been a general decline in the popularity of mens social clubs like the Elks, the Knights of Columbus, the Lions and others since WW II.

Volkonski wrote: ↑Sun Aug 11, 2024 8:13 am Oldies radio reports that the local North Fork American Legion post is closing after over 100 years.

Sustained for decades by WW I, WW II and Korean War veterans the post, like so many others, had trouble recruiting Vietnam War and later veterans.

There seems to have been a general decline in the popularity of mens social clubs like the Elks, the Knights of Columbus, the Lions and others since WW II.

I've got many "mens social clubs" in a 5 mile radius.

But it is a bit sad. My grandpa used to take me with to the American Legion when I was wee neon.

Volkonski wrote: ↑Sun Aug 11, 2024 8:13 am Sustained for decades by WW I, WW II and Korean War veterans the post, like so many others, had trouble recruiting Vietnam War and later veterans.

There seems to have been a general decline in the popularity of mens social clubs like the Elks, the Knights of Columbus, the Lions and others since WW II.

My WWII father didn't want to join the Legion or VFW. He saw them as places where veteran sat around drinking and reliving the past or something. But he like the rest of us was introverted and liked to hang around only with guys he knew. But he'd have known more guys if he'd joined the Legion or VFW.

His sister was with the Legion Auxiliary. She faithfully handed out poppies at stores on National Poppy Day as long as she was able. Around here I don't see that at all. Do they still do it?

The decline is interesting as there are stories about young men not knowing how to be men, leading to some of the right-wing nuttery we see like Proud Boys, Groypers, whatever.

The American Legion IS the place vets get cheap drinks, but they have to drive themselves home. The Shriners and Elks at least have a place for you to sleep it off.