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The American Legion
Emmett Liles Post 541
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Emmett Liles Post 541, American Legion Ellston, Iowa was named for George Emmett Liles. He was born on a farm near Ellston in Ringgold County. Emmett was inducted into the United States Army on February 24, 1918 and was sent overseas, May 9, 1918. |
After arriving in Europe, Emmett was sent to Belgium for action and was killed at Bellecourt, France on September 28, 1918. He was reported missing in action at that time and actual verification of his death was not received until August 1919. His grave was located in a cemetery in France until 1921 when his parents had his body returned to Ellston for burial in the Pumptown Cemetery located north of Sun Valley Lake.
The Emmett Liles Unit 541and the American Legion Auxiliary were organized on September 12, 1921. Over the years they have honored those who have, or are currently serving our country. They have sent boxes of food, clothing and other items for those fighting the war and helped the families that are left behind. They have also donated to Red Cross, Salvation Army, the Heart Fund, the Cancer Fund, and the Sister Kenny Fund. The Ellston Park and playground are in part from the Legion. They give Military Rights at funeral services, present the Color Guard at parades, and hold Military Services at the Oliver, Ellston, Pumptown, and Cromwell-Haight Cemeteries every Memorial Day. The Avenue of Flags was established in May of 1995 with Memorial contributions from one of our members, Naomi Creveling. There are now 63 flags that decorate the Ellston Cemetery every Memorial Day and 66 flags at the veterans’ gravesides.
The unit raises money with poppy flower sales, bazaars, auctions, dinners, quilt raffles, and the list goes on.
The American Legion is working to build the membership and WELCOMES those who would like to join. They are also in the process of working on funding towards an American Legion Building in Ellston. The building would be open to the community with a restaurant, a library, entertainment, community and family functions.
Members of the American Legion BELIEVE in our COUNTRY and encourage our youth and community to progress to lift the world upward and onward. Join them as they work toward building a community and world with the abundant life we desire and deserve.
Helen Kimes, Broker/Owner, 320 W. McLane, Osceola, IA 50213 641.392.2141