SABATTUS — The American Legion Harry Conway Post 135 opened their meeting by bowing their heads and asking God to guide their work during the meeting and praying for the fellow comrades past and present which was then followed by the appointment of this year’s post officers for 2014-15.

The POW-MIA chair was prominently displayed at the front of the meeting room. The empty chair honors those who are not present by reason of being missing since their time in war.

The first event of the meeting was the installation of officers for the Harry J. Conway American Legion Post 135 Auxiliary. The Installing Officer was Bridget Daigle. She gave the job description of each position and each officer was presented with a red, white and blue sash and their pin of office. The Auxiliary president was presented with her gavel.

Installing chaplain was Eddie Ellis and installing sergeant at arms was Gloria Patenaude.

The new officers for the Auxiliary are Joan Caron, president; Jennifer Caron, first vice president; Danielle Marquis, second vice president; Denise Michaud, secretary/treasurer; Debra Devoe, chaplain; and Nancy Ray, historian.

The second event of the meeting was the installation of the officers for Legion Post 135. Ron Caron, on behalf of 3rd District, was present to lead the installation. Caron was recently re-elected to the position of state historian for the Maine American Legion. He is a member and former post commander of the Sabattus post.

Caron was assisted in the installation by Ray Lemieux, a member of American Legion Mechanic Falls Post 150 who acted as his sergeant-at-arms and James Veilleux, District 3 Commander, who acted as chaplain.

Caron gave the job description for each position, and explained the importance of how each of their contributions will lead to the success of the post. Each new officer was brought forward by the sergeant-at-arms as Caron read their responsibilities and congratulated them on the appointment with a firm handshake and salute.

This year’s Sabattus Legion officers are:

Ronie Ray is the newly appointed post commander. He is responsible for the overall operation of the post including supervising the duties of all other officers and activities to ensure that they meet the highest standards and fulfill the tenets of The American Legion.

Joseph Michaud, formerly the post finance officer, is the new first vice commander. As such he is responsible for membership.

James Rancourt, recently deployed with the 133rd Engineers, and former post chaplain, is the newly appointed second vice commander. Rancourt is responsible for assisting the commander with all duties and is key with regard to patriotic observances, developing activities including entertainment features which should be an integral part of all meetings.

Tony Culpovich is the new finance officer, responsible for receiving and dispersing all the post’s funds and chairman of a finance committee.

Steve Caron is returning as adjutant for another term. He is responsible for the administrative aspects of the post and should be concerned with the overall effectiveness of post activities.

David Devoe is the newly appointed chaplain and as such is responsible for providing the spiritual leadership for the post.

Amedeo Lauria was appointed the service officer. He was formerly the Americanism officer and currently serves as the Department service officer as well. He is responsible for bringing to the attention of all veterans and their dependents the rights and benefits granted them by law.

Gordon Smith is returning as historian. He is responsible for compiling and preserving the records of the post.

Crystal Audette is the newly appointed Americanism officer. She is responsible for developing the spirit of Americanism among The American Legion and citizens and residents; to put into effect Americanism policies and programs of The American Legion; to coordinate any overlapping of programs dealing with Americanism; and to oversee and report on programs that relate to Americanism and many youth programs.

Donald Gosselin is returning as sergeant-at-arms. He is responsible for introducing all visiting comrades and guests of the post to make sure they feel welcomed and that the colors are properly maintained and displayed.

There are many activities hosted by the post to engage veterans in the local and surrounding communities. Prospective members are always welcome and encouraged to visit the post and take part in its many activities. Visit the post website at  www.americanlegionpost135.sabattus.net.