The American Legion, including Post 248 that recently partnered with the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s largest, congressionally chartered, non-profit Veterans Service Organization.
Post 248 was originally chartered in McCaysville in 2002, later moving to Blue Ridge.
They are currently sharing the Veterans Conference Center at 4584 Veterans Memorial highway with three other Veterans Service Organizations including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans and American Veterans.
Post 248’s main focus is on service to veterans and the community. Examples of these services are full military honors for deceased veterans including a 21-gun rifle salute, TAPS, and U.S. Flag presentation and conducts ceremonies for national holidays at the Fannin County Veterans Memorial Park.
They also offer support for veterans in need of help with VA claims, emergency funds, medical devices, transportation and home and property maintenance.
Post 248 also participates in parades, festivals and several other community events.
Other services are flag etiquette classes that implement flag retirement ceremonies and grave-site placement of flags.
Commander Richard Crosley, Senior Vice Commander Jim Callender and Adjutant Chris McKee issues a statement saying, “By joining the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce, we hope to more fully integrate into our community and identify ways in which we can provide even better support in the future.”