Veterans bestowed honor for 50 years of continuous American Legion membership

by Rachel Hunter

The National American Legion on Sunday, March 14 recognized two local veterans for 50 years of continuous membership. The honor was bestowed upon Michael F. Gaebel and Ronald J. Hartle by James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65 Commander Jason Carvel and 1st Vice Commander Jeff Dusharm during a special ceremony at the Legion home. American Legion members extended congratulations to the two veterans on the auspicious occasion.

“Today’s a very special day,” Commander Carvel said. “It’s a really big deal, “Elvis” Ronald J. Hartle and Mike Gaebel have been continuous members of this Legion for 50 years…” Much applause echoed in the American Legion rooms at the announcement. “It’s such a big deal that the national Legion commander and adjutant signed these certificates of achievement, mailed them to me, and wanted me to present them today on their behalf.”

Both veterans said that they were drafted.

Commander Carvel informed all gathered that Mr. Hartle was drafted in 1966 and served in Vietnam. He joined the American Legion in 1971, and has enjoyed serving as an active member at the James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65. He is a past commander, and still serves in various officer roles and executive committee roles at the Legion.

“His help is invaluable,” Commander Carvel said. “We appreciate you.”

Mr. Hartle extended gratitude to Commander Carvel for the recognition.

Commander Carvel then turned his attention to Mike Gaebel, who got drafted in 1970 and was sent to Germany. Commander Carvel said that Gaebel was part of the firing squad at the American Legion for many years, and also served as a vice commander at one time. He continues to be an active member at the James Maloy American Post No. 65.

“These guys know how important this Legion is to not only themselves, but us, the whole community,” Commander Carvel said. “You guys are something for all of us to look up to. We all appreciate who you guys are and what you guys represent. Thanks for being here.”

The following orders were presented as follows: “Certificate for continuous membership in grateful appreciation for faithful and dedicated allegiance to the ideas of the American Legion. Be it known that Michael F. Gaebel and Ronald J. Hartle, longtime and dedicated members of the American Legion Post No. 65, Department of New York has certified to be members in good standing continuously for 50 years. Be It Foreknown that such record of consistent loyalty to the American Legion merits the honor of being cited as an outstanding contributor to the programs of the American Legion. Witnessed therefore, this testimonial of personal gratitude is given under the hand of the national commander and duly attested by the national adjutant on this 14th day of March, 2021. Signed, James W. Oxford, National Commander of the American Legion.”

As the orders were read, Commander Carvel with the assistance of 1st Vice Commander Dusharm presented the citations to the two veterans.

Much applause sounded once again in recognition of this incredible accomplishment. The veterans then told the American Legion Post No. 65 that they will continue to serve as active members as long as they were able. Mr. Hartle added that his passion for continuous membership in the American Legion came from strong family roots. He said that six members of his family were among the past commanders of the James Maloy American Legion Post No. 65.

The ceremony concluded shortly thereafter with invitations for all those gathered to purchase and enjoy a drink in the bar. For more information on American Legion Post No. 65, call 315-287-4590.