B 193: Wilkins-Smith Post #1 American Legion celebrating 94th anniversary on March 2

Published Date

LACONIA — Wilkins-Smith American Legion Post #1 will celebrate its 94th year with a dinner and awards night featuring a full prime rib dinner on Saturday, March 2 at 5 p.m.
Founded by the doughboys of the Great War. Laconia's Post 1 was names for Frank W.Wilkins, an Army
telegraph sergeant who was the first "Laconia boy" killed in that war.
In 1946 the name was changes to Wilkins-Smith in order to honor the first Laconia son to be killed in World War II, Ltcdr. Stuart Smith.
Its charter was based on service to veterans and their children, Americanism and camaraderie. The post members conduct funeral rites as well as firing detail for funerals of all veterans whose families so request. They also conduct parades and remembrance ceremonies as well as doing programs for the local schools.
The post sponsors several levels of youth baseball, participate in Boy Scout Eagle Courts, provide flags, education, and flag disposal ceremonies. It provides six scholarships annually to deserving high school seniors.
The Kelley-Miller Circus was first brought to Laconia by Post 1 as was the Harlem Wizards basketball show recently.
For ticket information for the dinner contact the post prior to Feb. 27 at 524-9728.