LEWISTON – Post 22, American Legion, has named Joseph Paradis, long-time member, as chairman of the Thursday, March 17, Legion birthday celebration at the former Legion home, 190 Bates St.

A social hour will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. followed by a buffet lunch. A donation of $5 a person will be taken at the door.

A group of 20 officers, who served in American Expeditionary Forces World War I, is credited with planning the Legion when the first meeting took place in March 1919 in Paris, France. About 1,000 officers and enlisted men attended the meeting, known as the Paris Caucus, adopted a temporary constitution and chose the name of the American Legion.

The Legion held a second organizing caucus in St. Louis, Mo., in May 1919. It set up temporary headquarters, in New York City and began its relief, employment and Americanism programs. The anniversary of the founding is celebrated March 15 to 17 every year.

Also on the Birthday Committee are First Vice Commander Doris Hamel; Donald Dube, trustee; and Donald Robitaille, Building Committee.

Paradis, post trustee, said veterans are still asking how to have their names engraved on a stone at Veterans Memorial Park, Main Street. Those wishing can bring their separation papers, DDform 214, so their name can be added. Cost is $30 a name.

Veterans who are in the post-at-large in Waterville and would like to transfer to Post 22 will be able to do so that night. Dues of $23 can be paid then also.

Anyone wanting more information can call 786-0488 or 782-5700.