Get ready to fly the red, white and blue — Newcastle will host Wyoming American Legion convention for first time
Residents will likely see more red, white and blue next month because Newcastle’s Monroe-Bland Post 3 is hosting this year’s Wyoming American Legion convention for the first time.
The convention runs from June 19 to 21. Members will begin arriving Thursday evening, and most events will happen on Friday and Saturday. The convention will include meetings, state election of officers, discussion of any constitutional or bylaw changes, guest speakers and an evening banquet.
“We are hoping for a large turnout,” said Kirk Will, local American Legion Commander. Beginning next month, he adds American Legion District 5 Commander duties to his tasks.
Will explained that they expect about 150 members from the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion to attend this year.
Will said the local post is looking forward to hosting several legislators. U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman will be at the Weston County Events Center, at Weston County Fairgrounds from 1 to 1:30 p.m. on June 20, according to Will. Friday evening’s banquet, which will also be at the events center, features speaker Reid Rasner, and Newcastle Mayor Tyrel Owens will attend. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 21, U.S. Sen. John Barrasso will speak with and have lunch with veterans at the Weston County Events Center. Will said he’s seen the senator at state conferences he’s attended in the past.
“Senator Barrasso treats veterans like kings,” he said.
The public is invited to join the American Legion Riders for a three-hour, round-trip patriotic ride to Mount Rushmore. The group will gather between 7 and 8 a.m. June 22 at the Gateway Travel Center Pavillion, 5007 U.S. Highway 16, Newcastle.
“We’re inviting anyone and everyone in the community who wants to join us,” Will said. “If you can’t ride a motorcycle and you want to drive a car, you are welcome to join our patriotic ride.”
Questions about the state convention can be directed to Will at 307-941-0611.