The 14th Annual Honor America’s Flag event, hosted by the Exchange Club of Wilson County and American Legion Post 281, is more than a display — it is a community experience. It is a place for reflection, gratitude, and connection. Walking among the rows of flags is both humbling and inspiring, offering a moment to pause and remember what unites us as Americans.

The display is open to the public at no charge beginning the afternoon of

Thursday 5/21 running through Monday early afternoon 5/25.

Shortly after getting the field put up we had our 1st sponsor to honor one of their heroes! Thank You Lt. Ronan!

We invite you to visit, reflect, and take part in this meaningful celebration of service, sacrifice, and 250 years of American spirit.

Each flag stands for a life, a sacrifice, a commitment to something greater than self. Behind every flag is a name, a story, and a legacy. Flags may be sponsored to recognize veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, loved ones, or any American whose life reflects patriotism and service.

For 250 years, the Stars and Stripes has symbolized courage, resilience, and unity. It has endured through triumph and trial, reminding us that while times change, our shared ideals remain. As we gather beneath these flags, we are reminded that freedom is not inherited without cost — it is preserved by those willing to serve.

For those that may be interested in sponsoring the event, Click Here, for the order form (printable) which outlines the different sponsorship levels. Additionally, the Colonial Flag Foundation’s website is hosting a page for additional information and online payment methods for sponsors and individuals wanting to honor their heroes.

There are still several slots available for volunteers to help out with the event. Please consider spending a little time helping out and sign up at our next meeting 5/12/26. We need your help.

You know the saying: “Many hands make light work.”

Well… right now we’re looking for a few hands. Preferably attached to members who care about Post 281. 😉

It’s that time of year again — nominations are open for the following officer positions:

• Commander
  
• First Vice Commander
  
• Second Vice Commander
  
• Adjutant
  
• Finance Officer
  
• Service Officer
  
• Chaplain
  
• Historian
  
• Judge Advocate
  

Before everyone suddenly finds something very interesting to study on the ceiling… let’s talk.

Relax — This Isn’t Basic Training

Serving as an officer isn’t about being perfect, having all the answers, or giving long speeches (we promise).

It’s about: 

• Caring about the Post
  
• Showing up
  
• Being part of the team
  
• Supporting fellow veterans
  

That’s it.

You don’t need to be the oldest member.
You don’t need to be the youngest member.
You don’t need to have been here forever.

If you care about Post 281, you’re qualified to be considered.

There’s a Role for Every Strength

Some positions help guide the vision and direction of the Post.
Some help grow and engage membership.
Some keep the paperwork and finances squared away.
Some support veterans directly.
Some preserve our history and traditions.
Some provide guidance, support, and perspective when it’s needed most.

Different roles. Same mission.

This isn’t about one person doing everything — it’s about a team working together to keep Post 281 strong, organized, and moving forward.

Think About It…

Who’s the person who:

• Always volunteers?
  
• Has ideas to make things better?
  
• Keeps track of details?
  
• Checks in on fellow veterans?
  
• Talks about growing membership or doing more in the community?
  

That person might be a great nominee.

And if you’re reading this thinking, “Well… maybe I could do that,” you probably can.

Why It Matters

The officers we choose will help shape what next year looks like at Post 281 — more engagement, stronger membership, meaningful programs, and continued support for our veterans and community.

That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when members step up.

Deadline: May 12

Nominations close on May 12 before the vote.

  By Laws – ARTICLE VI – NOMINATIONS – ELECTIONS – VACANCIES

Section 1. NOMINATIONS: The nominations process for Post elected positions begins at the April

general membership meeting. Nominations can also be made from the floor at the general

membership meeting in May. Nominees must be present and agree to serve in the position for

which they are nominated.

Section 2. ELECTION DATE: All Officers and Executive Committee members of this Post shall be

elected from a slate of nominees at the May meeting.

Section 3. INSTALLATION: Officers and Executive Committee members shall be installed after the

elections as the final act of business at the May general membership meeting. The installing

officer shall be an officer from another Post, the Department of Tennessee, National, or a Post

281 Past Commander.

That means now’s the time to:

• Put your own name forward
  
• Encourage someone else
  
• Have that “you’d be great at this” conversation
  

Don’t assume someone else will do it. The Legion has always been strongest when members answer the call.

We’ve all served before. Serving Post 281 is just another way to continue that commitment — this time to each other.

Let’s keep Post 281 strong, active, organized… and maybe just a little louder than the Post down the road.

For God and Country,

Jeff Mattingly

1sr Vice Cmdr/Webmeister