According to American Legion customs, when a comrade passes, the Post Everlasting ceremony is one of honor. The memory of the departed Legion member is enrolled for perpetuity and sustained by their pride in their service to the nation.

"Post Everlasting is the final resting place for members of the American Legion, where departed comrades are called for duty by the Supreme Commander," said Jeff Sukeforth, Legion District 6 Commander. "The ceremony remembers deceased post members and gratitude for their contribution and service to our country, community, and the post, and their transfer of their membership to the Post Everlasting."

“The ceremony is symbolic and represents the final resting place for deceased members, signifying they are never forgotten and their service continues eternally," he said. "It is not a physical location but a solemn, annual tradition where posts honor members who passed away, often featuring dimmed lights, prayers, and tributes."

The ceremony involves reading the names of deceased members, often presenting memoriams to families. 

 “This ceremony provides closure to families, honors the memory and sacrifices of veterans, and reinforces the lifelong bond of camaraderie," said Sukeforth. "It ensures that even after death, veterans remain part of the American Legion family, highlighting that their commitment does not end."

Each American Legion Post conducts a solemn Post Everlasting Ceremony once each year. Community members are invited to attend and witness the solemn ceremony.

Presiding over the ceremony this year will be Post Commander Dave Franclemont and Post Chaplain Stephanie McLain. 

Those Post 30 members being called into Post Everlasting are:

Alan Thomas, U.S. Navy, World War II

Ralph Knowlton,  U.S. Army and U.S. Navy, Korea

Cedric Long, U.S. Army, Korea

Dell Hyssong, U.S. Army, World War II

Sukeforth said the ceremony will end with the playing of taps. 

For more information on this or other Legion ceremonies, call Sukeforth at 691-2270.

Jeff Sukeforth, of Camden, is Legion District 6 Commander