Fair Oaks American Legion Post 383 has been learning the value of community involvement.  Knowing that the American Legion is a valuable part of their community, they recently made arrangements to show their gratitude to their local First Responders.  It started with a suggestion by Post Adjutant Bill Heilmann that the post seek some way to show a sign of appreciation for those heroes that put it all on the line for the safety and wellbeing of their community.  At first, they sought to take up a post collection for Coffee gift cards, but the various department regulations prevent officers and firefighters from receiving any form of gratuity.  After a long round table discussion, it was decided to put up a couple of banners at a busy intersection simply saying thanks.  The idea was taken to a post meeting and the membership voted to support the signs.  Post officer Dominick Damore researched locations where at the end of the current election, we could get permission to use a space where election signs were removed.  Meanwhile, post member Pete DePalma designed and printed the two banners to display.  A site was found, permission granted, and on Nov. 9th, the day after the election, up went the banners.  The Executive Committee knows that not only is the post demonstrating its support for these heroes, but Fair Oaks is also made aware that the American Legion is an important and involved part of the local community.

Mark L. Rice, Commander
American Legion Post 383
Fair Oaks, California