American Legion - Post 108

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American Legion - Post 108

The American Legion in Manson Washington meets the first Monday of each month at 7:00 at the Manson Parks Building located at142 Pedoi Street, Manson, WA.

Mailing address:
American Legion, Post 108
PO Box 353
Manson, WA 98831 Membership in the American Legion in Manson Washington is contingent upon being an honorably discharged veteran of the United States military. The American Legion in Manson Washington's main purpose is to provide mutual aid to veterans and their families, as well as lobby Congress on behalf of the interests of veterans. To join

the American Legion in Manson Washington, eligible candidates for membership must submit an application for membership along with a copy of their form DD214. For more information contact Norm Manly at [email protected]

08/11/2026

Manson Hosts First Annual Purple Heart Day Celebration
Photos from Bill Jarr, son of award recipient Arthur Jarr

Manson’s inaugural Purple Heart Day celebration drew a crowd of 75 community members on a smoky August 7, filling the back yard of Tapped Out Sports Bar for an afternoon dedicated to honoring wounded and fallen service members.

The event began at noon with a stirring performance of America the Beautiful by the Lake Chelan Patriotic Singers under the direction of Steve Davis. Norm Manly, Post Service Officer for the Manson American Legion, welcomed attendees, provided programs and masks, and thanked Tapped Out Sports Bar owner Todd Link, a veteran himself, for hosting and supporting the ceremony.

Norm shared, “Here in Manson, we may be a small town, but our respect for these heroes is immense. Becoming a Purple Heart Community is our pledge to honor their courage publicly, proudly, and permanently. We recognize not only the veterans who bore the wounds of war, but also the families who carried those sacrifices, the parents, spouses, children, and loved ones whose lives were forever shaped by service.”

Vice Commander Brian Strausbaugh directed the Color Guard to post the Colors, followed by an opening prayer from Legion Chaplain John Swenson. The Patriotic Singers continued with My Country ’Tis of Thee, adding to the ceremony’s patriotic atmosphere.

Robin Boch then read the official proclamation designating Manson as a Purple Heart Community, a status formally adopted by the Chelan County Commissioners on April 20, 2026. The announcement received strong appreciation from those in attendance.

Honoring Purple Heart Recipients. Chelan County Commissioner Shon Smith, Marie Cannon, and Norm Manly recognized Manson’s Purple Heart recipients and their families. Their service and sacrifice were honored with deep respect.

• Arthur Jarr, WWII, accepting his son Bill Jarr.
• Nicholas Coleman, Iraq, accepting his parents, Mike and Phyllis Coleman.
• Patrick Beeman, WWI, accepting Kandy Jess-Conrad, her great uncle.

Recent Manson High School graduate Cooper Pinski offered reflections on the significance of the Purple Heart and the importance of remembering veterans’ contributions. Part of his speech hit home to many when he said, “When I was younger, I didn’t understand why certain sounds made veterans tense up, or why they stood a little straighter when the flag was raised, or why they always insisted on thanking other veterans first. As I got older, I realized those weren’t just habits. They were reminders, reminders of people they served with, moments they lived through, and sacrifices they carried home.”

The Patriotic Singers returned with God Bless America before three community leaders addressed the crowd:

• Chelan County Commissioner Shon Smith
• Vice Commander Brian Strausbaugh, Manson American Legion
• Dom Amor, Manson Community Council

Each speaker highlighted themes of service, sacrifice, and community unity.

Manly delivered closing remarks saying, “To our Purple Heart recipients, and to the families of those who were lost, we meant every word when we said, “This ceremony belongs to you.” Your resilience, your service, and your stories are the foundation of this community’s commitment to remembrance. Manson stands with you, today and always.”

Craig Pittson performing Taps, Chaplain Swenson offered the closing prayer, and Vice Commander Strausbaugh ordered the Colors retired, formally concluding the ceremony.

Many attendees remained afterward for lunch, conversation, and photos. Veterans and their families received a 30% discount courtesy of Tapped Out Sports Bar. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with guests expressing pride in Manson’s Purple Heart Community designation and appreciation for the meaningful celebration.

Mike and Phyllis Coleman, parents of Marine veteran Nicholas Coleman, said the ceremony left a deep impression on their family. “We were deeply touched and honored that our son was recognized today by our local Purple Heart Community,” they shared. “Thank you for honoring his service and sacrifice, and for the care and respect you show to all who have served. Your kindness means the world to our family.”

Bill Jarr, speaking on behalf of his father, World War II veteran Arthur Jarr, said the ceremony reflected the best of Manson. “The Manson Purple Heart event not only honored the recipients, but the turnout and the heartfelt speeches were a real credit to our community.”

Kandy Jess‑Conrad shared, “Patrick Beeman was my great‑uncle, and standing in Manson to honor him during their very first Purple Heart Day meant more to me than I can express. Knowing that Manson is now part of the nationwide Purple Heart Trail made the day feel truly historic for this little town. The ceremony was heartfelt, beautifully organized, and deeply respectful. Watching our three Manson Veterans receive such dignified recognition was incredibly moving, each one held a special place of honor. I felt proud of Patrick, proud of our Veterans, and proud of what Manson accomplished in this first year. It’s a moment I will carry with me always.”

But the day was not over for Manson. Members of the Manson American Legion. Robin Bloch, Marie Cannon, and Norm Manly, traveled to Wenatchee to take part in the 2026 Community Purple Heart Ceremony at the Wenatchee Convention Center. The event began at 5:30 p.m. with a welcome from Master of Ceremonies Tony Sandoval of the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs.

American Legion Post 10 and VFW Post 3617 posted the colors, framed by an impressive backdrop that set the tone for the evening. Courtney Sackwar delivered a powerful rendition of the national anthem, followed by Wenatchee Mayor Mike Poirier, who shared the history of the Purple Heart.

Manson Post 108 members were then invited to the stage, where Chelan County Commissioner Kevin Overbay spoke about the remarkable speed with which Manson achieved Purple Heart Community status. He noted that the Manson American Legion launched the effort in March 2026, and by April 20 the Chelan County Commissioners had formally adopted the proclamation. Overbay also praised Manson for already installing Purple Heart signs, including one at Manson High School, and for holding its first Purple Heart Day celebration earlier that same afternoon.

Representing the community of Manson, Norm Manly shared heartfelt remarks: “In Manson, those heroes are part of our story. They built lives in our valley, raised families, worked in our orchards and businesses, and helped define the character of the place we call home. Becoming a Purple Heart Community is our promise that their service will never be forgotten.”

The evening concluded with the induction of the 2026 Hall of Honor recipients, eleven in all, including three from Manson. One by one, each honoree or their family members was invited to the stage. A large screen displayed their photo and story as it was read aloud, followed by the presentation of a commemorative coin and a copy of the Purple Heart County proclamation.

These were deeply emotional moments for many in attendance. It was a powerful and meaningful tribute to veterans, their families, and the community of Manson.

If you are a veteran, family member, or friend of someone who earned the Purple Heart and would like them recognized at our next Purple Heart Day celebration, please contact Norm Manly at 509‑293‑0225. And if you’re a veteran with an honorable discharge, consider joining the Manson American Legion. The Post meets on the first Monday of each month at 7:00 pm at the Manson Parks building.

By Norm Manly
Manson American Legion
Post Service Officer

08/06/2026

Purple Heart Sign Dedicated at Manson High School

Manson, WA — August 6, 2026

At 1:00 this afternoon, members of the Manson American Legion gathered with Ian Crossland, Superintendent of Manson Schools, and Kamie Kronbauer, Principal of Manson High School, to dedicate a newly installed Purple Heart Community sign on the high school campus. The sign, now prominently displayed for students, staff, and visitors, marks another milestone in Manson’s growing commitment to honoring veterans and educating youth about their sacrifices.

The Purple Heart designation recognizes service members who were injured or killed in combat while defending our country. With the sign now in place, Legion members expressed their hope that students will see it daily and gain a deeper understanding of the courage, loss, and patriotism represented by the Purple Heart.

“This sign is more than a marker,” said Norm Manly, Manson American Legion’s, Post Service Officer. “It’s a reminder to every student who walks this campus that freedom has a cost, and that many brave men and women paid that price on our behalf.”

The dedication is part of an ongoing effort by the Manson American Legion to involve local youth in veteran‑related programs and events. Over the years, Legion members have worked closely with Manson Schools to expand student participation in Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and other community observances. Future plans include classroom presentations, student‑led projects, and opportunities for young people to learn directly from veterans.

Superintendent Crossland and Principal Kronbauer both expressed appreciation for the partnership and emphasized the educational value of connecting students with real stories of service and sacrifice.

With today’s installation, Manson High School becomes the latest location in the valley to display the Purple Heart emblem, continuing the community’s commitment to honoring veterans and ensuring future generations understand the meaning behind the medal.

Manly added, “Please join us tomorrow, August 7 at 12:00 at Tapped Out Sports Bar in Manson as we celebrate Purple Heart Day. Three veterans, one from WW1, another from WW2 and a third from the Iraq War. If you have questions, contact Norm Manly 509-293-0225.

07/28/2026

Mark your calendars for our monthly meeting on August 3, at 7:00 pm. We meet in the Manson Parks building. We will finalize duties for our Purple Heart Day celebration scheduled for August 7, at 12:00 at Tapped Out Sports Bar.

For more information contact Norm Manly at 509-293-0225.

07/22/2026

Why We Honor Purple Heart Day

Every year on August 7, communities across America pause to honor the men and women who were wounded or killed in combat while serving our nation. The Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to U.S. service members, tracing back to George Washington in 1782.

Purple Heart Day reminds us that behind every medal is a story of courage, sacrifice, and devotion to country. As we count down to August 7, we honor all Purple Heart recipients, past and present, and reaffirm our commitment to never forget their service.

Be sure to join the community of Manson, Washington on August 7 at 12:00 at Tapped Out Sports Bar as we honor our heros.

07/21/2026

Boys and Girls State 2026, Another Success

Boys and Girls State Committee Chairperson Robin Bloch proudly announced that Manson American Legion Post 108 celebrated a standout year in the 2026 Boys and Girls State programs. Three exceptional juniors, two from Manson High School and one from Chelan High School, represented the community with distinction and enthusiasm.

The Department of Washington recognized Manson American Legion Post 108 for sending the most students to this year’s Boys and Girls State programs, a notable achievement that reflects the Post’s strong commitment to youth leadership and civic education.

This year’s Boys State session was held June 21–27 at the Warm Beach Conference Center in Stanwood, marking the first time in program history that Boys State and Girls State were hosted at the same location.

Boys and Girls State is a premier, week-long civic engagement and leadership program for high school juniors. During the immersive seven‑day experience, delegates step into the roles of city, county, and state leaders, building a fully functioning mock government. Students run campaigns, participate in elections, draft and debate legislation, and take part in simulated court and legislative sessions.

Sponsored nationwide by the American Legion, Boys and Girls State programs are designed to inspire civic responsibility while developing real‑world skills in public speaking, teamwork, critical thinking, and decision‑making. Delegates also gain access to exclusive collegiate opportunities, including eligibility for the Samsung American Legion Scholarship, and join a statewide network of peers committed to leadership and service.

Beyond being educational and inspiring, Boys and Girls State is also a standout addition to any college or career résumé. The program’s alumni list reads like a Who’s Who of American leadership and achievement. Notable participants include astronaut Neil Armstrong, former President Bill Clinton, broadcaster Jane Pauley, former Washington Governor Christine Gregoire, NBA legend Michael Jordan, musician Jon Bon Jovi, Senator Tom Cotton, and journalist Rush Limbaugh. Thousands of other distinguished alumni, from judges and educators to business leaders and military officers, trace their early civic training back to Boys and Girls State.

Manson American Legion Post 108’s Boys and Girls State Committee consisted of Robin Bloch, George Rohrich (a North Dakota Boys State alumnus), Marie Cannon, and John Swenson. Their efforts were strongly supported at Manson High School by Superintendent Tabatha Mires (an Evergreen Girls State alumna), Principal Kami Kronbauer, and Counselor Jim Broome. At Chelan High School, Counselor Derek Todd served as the primary contact, helping ensure a successful experience for their participating students.

Throughout April, the Post 108 committee visited both schools to deliver presentations and conduct interviews. Once selected, the students were officially designated as Delegates. Post 108 covered the full tuition for all three Delegates to attend their respective programs, for a total investment of $2,100.

Committee Chairperson Robin Bloch reflected on this year’s Boys and Girls State by noting, “The Boys and Girls State program is an immersive educational experience that teaches the fundamentals of democracy. It succeeds in its mission to remain fully non‑partisan, giving delegates the chance to learn how city and state government function by actually building and running a mock government themselves.

American Legion Post 108 is proud to support Boys and Girls State through generous scholarships, and we encourage the youth of the Chelan/Manson Valley to take advantage of this opportunity. It offers a deeper appreciation for our Republic and the democratic processes that sustain it.”

Levi Brown, Manson High School - During my time at Evergreen Boys and Girls State, I became close with a lot of people where I wouldn’t have in an ordinary setting. I met people from all across Washington and even the country. I learned how government works from a city level all the way to the state level. I learned how to be an effective leader and participant in government. This camp opened my eyes on people’s beliefs and how they believe government should be ran. I am grateful for the opportunity to attend Evergreen Boys State.

Ella Desser, Chelan High School - When I first arrived at Boys and Girls state I knew no one and very little about the government, after only a few minutes I felt so welcome from the staff and students. At the beginning of the week, they told us they would work us hard but I didn’t know just how much, I cherished every second of learning and in that week, I had learned more than my whole school year. It was an amazing experience, and I was so glad my teacher told me about it. I am so excited to hopefully be returning next year to help staff.

Quahlani-Joseph Sanchez, Manson High School - Attending Evergreen Boys and Girls State 2026 was one of the most rewarding experiences I've had. I had the opportunity to represent Manson High School while learning about Washington State government, leadership, and civic responsibility. During the program, I served as a Supreme Court Clerk, where I worked alongside other students and gained a better understanding of the judicial system. Beyond learning about government, I developed leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills while meeting students from across Washington. I am grateful to the American Legion and everyone who made this opportunity possible, and I encourage future students to apply for this outstanding program.

Manson American Legion Commander Clyde McCullough shared, “We are incredibly proud of the students we sponsored, and we’re confident that this one transformative week will leave a lasting impact on their lives.” He encourages anyone interested in learning more about these exceptional programs to visit the Evergreen Boys State website at www.evergreenboysstate.org

The Manson American Legion Post 108 meets on the first Monday of each month at the Manson Parks building. Meetings begin at 7:00 p.m., and all veterans who received an Honorable Discharge are warmly invited to join us. For membership information, please contact Norm Manly at (509) 293‑0225 or [email protected] for more information.

By Norm Manly
American Legion Post 108
Post Service Officer

06/24/2026

Let's all have new American flags for the 4th of July as we celebrate 250 years of freedom. Flag box provided by the Manson American Legion - Post 108.

06/09/2026

Brian Strausbaugh Takes Honor Flight

I’m proud to share that one of Manson American Legion Post 108’s own, Vice Commander Brian Strausbaugh, recently traveled to Washington, D.C. as part of an Honor Flight made possible through the Honor Flight Network. These all‑expenses paid journeys bring veterans, especially those from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, to our nation’s capital to visit the memorials built in their honor. It’s a deeply meaningful way to say thank you for their service and sacrifice. Since its founding in 2005, the Honor Flight Network has enabled 339,225 veterans to make this unforgettable trip.

Born in Wenatchee and raised in Chelan, Brian joined the United States Navy two months after his 21st birthday, on June 26, 1956. After completing Boot Camp in San Diego, he was sent to Norman, Oklahoma, for Naval Aviation Orientation, followed by Aviation Structural Maintenance and Repair School in Memphis, Tennessee. Upon graduation, he received orders to VAHM‑10 (Heavy Attack Mining Squadron 10) at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

Brian became a qualified plane captain on both the P2V‑5 and P2V‑7 aircraft, logging approximately 1,500 flight hours. Of his twenty years in the Navy, twelve were spent at NAS Whidbey Island. His service took him to Alaska, Japan, and the Philippines, with additional detachments to Alaska, Thailand, and southern Japan. Chief Petty Officer, Brian was honorably discharged at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California on June 26, 1975, and returned home to Washington State.

The Honor Flight, a surprise to Brian, was arranged by his daughter, Janette Schlough. Anyone may help a veteran apply for an Honor Flight: family members, friends, caregivers, or the veterans themselves can submit an application through their local Honor Flight hub. While the Honor Flight Network is designed for veterans to apply directly through their nearest hub, there are no restrictions on who may assist them with completing or submitting the paperwork.

Brian’s adventure began on April 28, 2026. He arrived at the Spokane airport at 5:30 a.m. and boarded the chartered aircraft alongside roughly ninety fellow veterans and their guardians. “It was a four‑hour flight to Washington, D.C., and the crew was exceptional, they made sure we were comfortable the entire way,” Brian recalled. His daughter, Janette, met him at Dulles Airport and served as his guardian throughout the two days they spent together in the nation’s capital.

It was a whirlwind adventure from the moment they landed. The veterans boarded buses and headed straight for the monuments, where a welcoming committee greeted them with cheers and gratitude. The group visited Arlington National Cemetery and witnessed the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. “It was an emotional experience for me. Absolute silence is required. I’ve seen it on television, but nothing compares to seeing it in person. There were hundreds of people watching, some taking photos, others quietly crying,” Brian said.

“Arlington National Cemetery is awe‑inspiring, to say the least,” Brian said. “Row after row of white markers, perfectly aligned and stretching as far as you can see. The grounds are immaculate, not a single blade of grass out of place.”

On their first night, the veterans and their guardians stayed at the Washington Hilton, just a short distance from the White House. “I didn’t spend a nickel the entire trip,” Brian said. “All our meals were provided, including sack lunches during the tours. I feel very blessed to have had this wonderful opportunity.”

Another powerful moment came on the second day during their visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. “It is huge,” Brian said. “There are two walls, each 246 feet 9 inches long, and together they stretch nearly 500 feet. The height rises from just 8 inches at the ends to over 10 feet at the center where the walls meet.” The sheer scale of the memorial, and the thousands of names etched into the black granite, brought a wave of emotion over him.

Beyond our tour group, many others were gathered at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, searching for the names of their loved ones with the help of a directory. Once a name was found, people knelt beside the panel, some quietly crying, as they traced the inscription onto paper provided at the site. The wall bears 58,318 names of service members who lost their lives in the Vietnam War.

“We were able to visit many memorials during our stay,” Brian said. “Our schedule was flexible, we were never rushed, and there was always plenty of time for breaks.” Their final stop was the Lincoln Memorial, an expansive area surrounded by reflecting pools and water features. “Just like the Vietnam Memorial, it’s so much larger in person than it looks on television. People standing near Lincoln’s statue looked tiny by comparison,” he added.

The Lincoln Memorial rises like an ancient Greek temple, about 190 feet long, 130 feet wide, and nearly 100 feet tall. Inside sits the 19‑foot‑tall statue of Abraham Lincoln, weighing an incredible 175 tons. The surrounding grounds span 110 acres, adding to the monument’s sense of grandeur and reverence.

Time passed quickly, and after visiting the Lincoln Memorial it was time to head to the airport for our return flight to Spokane, where we arrived around 9:00 p.m. We were all tired, but deeply grateful to have been part of this Honor Flight. I give this experience my highest recommendation for any veteran to consider,” Brian concluded.

To learn more about the Honor Flight Network visit their website www.honorflight.org or contact the Honor Flight Network hub in Spokane at 509-505-1080.

By Norm Manly
Manson American Legion
Post Service Officer

Address

142 Pedoi Street
Manson, WA

Telephone

+15092930225

Website

https://moretomanson.com/community-organizations

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