News and Updates

American Legion Post 421 on Brookpark Road is looking completely different these days. But not long ago, the post was struggling so much financially it barely had enough cash to keep the lights on.

"We knew that we had to do something, because the post just did not have the finances to survive more than probably three months at that time."

The post got electronic pull tab machines in August of 2024, and that revenue helped them stay open. Canteen manager Allison Nye said those proceeds also paid for long overdue repairs. "The parking lot has been redone and sealed and striped. We've removed all the bushes in the front, replaced the sign, moved the old sign to the front porch. Also went to pay for the projects for the kids, you know, the paint and the murals and the benches, the rock."

Commander Jason Nye said transforming the inside of the post was important too, making it welcoming for everyone. "Before it was like a dingy dive bar. Now it's a canteen where people can come in and enjoy things."

Next on the list is tackling the post's massive main hall. "We're looking forward to the possibility of renovating this hall. This is the largest hall on the west side, and so we would like to make this a place where people would want to come and hold more events."

The additional revenue from charitable gaming also gives the post the freedom to step up for local veterans in a big way. "We contributed money to a VA baby shower for female veterans. We contributed money to the Sarah J. Harper homeless female veterans housing, which is through Volunteers of America, to Laura's Home through City Mission."

"We support the 94th Street, which is a rehabilitation center for veterans, male and females. Any time we have the ability to be able to help a veteran, it feels really good to be able to do that."

For Allison and Jason, saving the post was personal after 17 years of dedication. "So for us, you know, this has become - it's almost like your baby. You need to make sure that it's run right for the people that come in, that there's space for everyone. This is a place where everybody feels welcome."