TURNER – The original Turner Post 111, American Legion, charter has been returned to the newly formed Turner Memorial Post.

The charter was preserved by the John D. Long Post 58, Buckfield, since 1976, when Bernard Trask was commander.

The original charter was given under the hand and seal of National Commander Franklin D’olier and Adjutant Lemuel L. Bolles at headquarters in Indianapolis, the first day of August 1920.

It was countersigned by Commander Albert L. Greenlaw and Adjutant James L. Boyle of the Department of Maine in Waterville on Aug. 10, 1920.

D’olier was the first national commander of the American Legion. He was among the delegates who assembled in the “Cirque de Paris” in March 1919 to form the American Legion and was elected the first commander at the Minneapolis convention. In private life D’Olier was the head of the Prudential Insurance Co. of America.

Greenlaw was instrumental in forming the Legion in Maine. Greenlaw also participated in conventions held in France and in Washington, D.C.

The history of Turner Post 111 is being researched, restored and published by Paul R. Bernard, chaplain, on the Chaplains Desk Web page, www.maineamericanlegion.com.

Any eligible veteran interested in joining the American Legion anywhere in the state can call Bernard at 225-3285.