American Legion Post 180 Goes Back In Time

Veterans, spouses and friends went back in time on Saturday night at the American Legion Post 180 with a World War II Karaoke Idol and Dance Fundraiser,which transformed the legion building into a wartime canteen dance hall.

The event benefitted the Honor Flight Program, which brings World War II veterans to the war's memorial in Washington, DC.

With more than 1,000 World War II veterans dying each day, the program is trying to raise money more quickly to accommodate servicemen and women while they're still alive.

"It's a race against the clock. In two or three years there won't be anyone to bring in anymore," Janet Renner of the Legion 180 Auxiliary said. "A lot of times we call families to let them know the veteran is finally on a flight, and they tell us, 'He's already gone.'"

Last year, the Honor Flight program brought 17,000 veterans to Washington memorials. The goal this year is to bring in 25,000, Renner said.

The event raised $11,965 as of Monday morning, with more money still coming in from sponsors.

"This exceeds my pie-in-the-sky expectations," Renner said.

After being greeted with a wartime tent and Jeep courtesy of Woody Fitzhugh outside the post building, Rosie the Riveter, aka Margaret Dellinger, welcomed guests to the event. Great food, a big band, dancing and karaoke kept attendees entertained throughout the evening.

The most popular event of the evening was the karaoke contest. After two contestants sang "God Bless America", contest judge Sgt Major Aubain said, "Definitely the best song on the face of the planet, but definitely not the best singers."

People can continue to donate to the Honor Flight program--every $105 puts one veteran on a bus. For more information, contact Janet Renner at 703-625-5736 or rennerjl7396@verizon.net. You can also visit the Heroes Welcome Honor Flight website.