Building Bonds, Changing Perceptions: New Horizon West American Legion Unites Veterans and Our Community
Engaging Veterans of Many Generations with Camaraderie and Support
Horizon West veterans have their very own American Legion Post! Chartered in the summer of 2023, Horizon West American Legion Post 419 was immediately off to a very strong start. With over 50 members already in place, and appointed officers who are eager to grow the group and make a difference, this post is already having a transformative impact not only on Horizon West veterans, but the broader HW community.
The American Legion’s mission statement is “To enhance the well-being of America’s veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.”
Post 419 is fulfilling the mission by offering a variety of resources and support services to veterans, their families, and the community. These services are designed to honor the commitment and sacrifices of U.S. military veterans while fostering community spirit.
Building Bonds
The Executive Committee for Post 419 has put a special emphasis on building relationships and bringing veterans together, not only for practical issues like navigating the complexities of Veterans Affairs benefits, but to create real-life support channels for the everyday aspects of life.
Members are supported by activities including MyVa.gov and Legacy Training Classes that assist veterans with benefits and claims. General meetings are held of each month to keep the Post’s plans moving forward and to foster engagement with all members. And recurring networking socials held on the first Monday of every month allow members to check in with one another regularly while enjoying food and drinks.
Post 419 is bringing together the brothers and sisters who have served our country to support one another and give them a community they can feel proudly connected to — in the special way that comes from the common bond of being a service member.
Founding member, Second Vice Commander and PR Representative for Post 419 Jess Makin was recently honored as one of the Who’s Who of Horizon West Award recipients for her dedication to creating a sense of belonging for HW veterans. Through Jess’ efforts to organize social gatherings and community service events, camaraderie and long-lasting friendships are being built in Horizon West.
Changing Perceptions and Making a Difference
With members who have been Legionnaires for many years as well as younger veterans coming in, Post 419 is committed to engaging veterans of all generations. Their goal is to foster camaraderie and support for every local service member in ways that are meaningful to them. For many, interests lie beyond social gatherings and there is a strong desire to be active in the local community. These service-oriented members are already making a difference in the Horizon West area.
On Veteran’s Day 2023, Post 419 held their Inaugural Ruck March and Veterans Day event at Home State Brewing Co. where Legion members, veterans and the community participated in the ruck program and celebration. The Post leaders have grown this event year over year and continue to connect residents with local veterans.
The group is also active in supporting local programs such as Legacy Events for Education Central Florida. They participated in the Legacy Events' recent Chili Cookoff Fundraiser to raise money for scholarships and grants for local students and schools.
Post 419 has plans to help local Sea Cadets and Junior ROTC with needs, providing items like drill weapons and ribbon bars, which can be very costly for these young people. They also intend to give Recognition Awards to local EMTs, fire fighters, teachers, police and others who serve the community. The Post's members are actively fundraising to make these goals a reality.
You will find the Post's veterans proudly representing the American Legion at community events like Horizon West Car Fest, Horizon West Fest and more!
How You Can Support American Legion
We at Horizon West Magazine encourage you to join or support the Legion’s activities in the community as they are providing elements we know are essential to living a more fulfilling life here in our hometown of Horizon West, like quality connections and access to knowledge and resources that nurture the mental and physical health of our veterans.
Local businesses or individuals who are moved to support the Horizon West American Legion Post's goals can contribute monetary donations or items (for raffles or Recognition Awards). Reach out by email or connect with members at a future community event.
Be sure to follow their Facebook page to stay updated on events and opportunities to engage with Horizon West’s Veterans at American Legion, Post 419!
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