American Legion honors local supporters

DOWNEY - Councilman Roger Brossmer and U.S. Army Capt. Victor Shen, company commander of the U.S. Army Recruiting Company based in Long Beach, each received plaques on Monday from American Legion Post No. 270, which honored them for their efforts on behalf of American military personnel-veterans and those in active service.In accepting his plaque, Capt. Shen, a West Point graduate, said a lot of things are going on in various trouble spots in the world right now. He pointed to conflicts in Somalia, in Mali, in the Horn of Africa, in the Philippines, and elsewhere, while reminding everyone of the sacrifices being made by "our brothers and sisters in protecting us" and thus "We should not forget to thank them." A prior press release referred to Capt. Shen for his role in "providing support to the city of Downey and the American Legion by lending his time and military assets for the legion to use." Brossmer, who was cited for launching the military banner program that adorns Firestone Boulevard, said: "Even though we came late to the game, it's never too late to do the right thing." And the right thing to do, he said, was for the city council to recognize the servicemen and women coming home from the field of conflict. This led, Brossmer said, to the construction of the Veterans Memorial in front of city hall. "I think it's beautiful," he said. "We'll add some more names to it." The brief presentations were made at the American Legion Post No. 270's regular dinner meeting, with about 35 members and lady auxiliaries present. Presiding was Post Commander John Quagliani, who, acknowledging a visiting Legion commander from another district as well as the simple ceremony honoring Capt. Shen and Brossmer, said: "I hope we do this more often."

********** Published: January 24, 2013 - Volume 11 - Issue 41