A few words from Post 46 Commander Oleg Michajlenko:
American Legion Post 46 was named in memory of Erwin Prieskorn of Ann Arbor, who died of wounds suffered in France in 1918. The Post was issued a charter in 1919 and has been serving veterans and their dependents continuously for the past 99 years.
Over those years membership has fluctuated as new members from the conflicts that followed World War I swelled our ranks. Today, our roster includes men and women who have served this nation in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, the Gulf War, Afghanistan and Iraq, in addition to some on active duty around the world at this very moment.
Over the years Post 46 had had a great tradition of service and fellowship. Those same attributes continue, and I hope they always will.
I have been selected commander of this Post, joining a long line of past commanders, who have helped guide the direction and programs approved by our members. It will be a privilege to work with our officers and executive committee.
Our accomplishments over the past 99 years have been many. Some of them--notably the Past Commanders' Dinner five years ago, the World War II Memorial Prayer Breakfast, the fund contribution to the VA Medical Center to refurbish the auditorium, and our substantial contribution to the national 9/11 relief fund--have been extraordinary. And I am sure we will continue our tradition of community service.
But many other activities took place long ago and form a distinguished part of our history. Our officers and executive committee accordingly have asked post Historian Bob Wischmeyer to compile a Post history. Copies of the book have been distributed to all Post members and are still available by contacting the Post Adjutant at P. O. Box 131010, Ann Arbor, MI 48113-1010.
On behalf of the officers and executive committee of the Post, I thank our historian Bob Wischmeyer and all the others who have contributed to this commendable effort.
Oleg Michajlenko
Commander, Erwin Prieskorn Post 46
American Legion