The American Legion organization recently celebrated its 100th anniversary.

The occasion was marked by Governor Kim Reynolds at the statehouse in Des Moines with the signing of a resolution and Jefferson’s own, District 47 State Representative, and American Legion Post 11 Commander Phil Thompson was on-hand and led the event.

“It was really a bright spot of the week was being able to stand on the floor (of the House) and read a resolution acknowledging the centennial of the American Legion. (We) Just wanted to raise awareness that our organization was here and that veterans that need that comradery have a place to go, and a good organization that’s doing good things in the community.”

American Legion Post 11 Adjutant Barb Labate says the local post was established in March 15, 1919, following the sole Greene County resident who was killed in combat during World War I, Floyd Brown. The organization now has 73 members and they contribute by hosting a Fifth Grade Flag Essay Contest, volunteering at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Des Moines, giving a Floyd Brown scholarship to a veteran’s graduating son or daughter, plus making appearances at the Bell Tower Festival parade, Relay for Life and other events.