Preface The American Legion is declining in membership, which means the
finances are also declining. With costs of uniforms, music, practice
halls and travel increasing, the future of the band is in great
jeopardy. As one looks to the future he is drawn to the past, the glory
and good times. Many members contributed to these times. It is the
intent of this book to honor and remember these members. The start of this project was the idea of Beth Behrens, a member of
the flute section since 1968. The start was to provide some memories for
Kermit Harper, terminally ill with cancer. It then became a larger
project to provide memories for all members and future members. Beth provided the "gofer", gathering material from many members.
Early history is non-existent. Two members, Clyde Rayburn and Dick
Clutter who played in the band in the late forties and early fifties
were able to supply the early information. I have tried to put it all
together for your enjoyment. I would appreciate your comments and should
you have information not included, I would like to add it. Malcolm R. Easterday
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