SABATTUS — The Harry J. Conway Post 135, American Legion, and Auxiliary have installed its new officers.

The installation ceremony began with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the recognition of the POW-MIA chair prominently displayed at the front of the meeting room. The empty chair honors those who are not present by reason of being missing since their time in war.

American Legion Auxiliary officers for 2017-2018 were installed by Michelle McCrea, installing officer. Each officer was presented with a pin and sash that signifies the office of their appointment. The officers who were installed were Jen Caron, president; Joan Caron and Denise Michaud, vice presidents; Theresa Bradshaw, secretary/treasurer; Debra Devoe, chaplain; and Joan Fournier, sergeant at arms.

After the installation of the Auxiliary officers, Ron Caron was present to lead the installation of Legion officers. He was assisted in the installation by Steve Caron, past post adjutant who acted as his installation sergeant-at-arms and David Devoe, post chaplain, who acted as installation chaplain.

The installing officer gave the job description for each position, and explained the importance of each of their contributions will make to the success of the post. Each new officer was brought forward by the sergeant-at-arms as Caron read their off their responsibilities and congratulated them on the appointment with a salute, handshake and presentation of their charge of office.

The 2017-2018 Sabattus Harry J. Conway American Legion Post 135 officers are Donald Caron, post commander; Joseph Michaud vice commander; Joseph Tetreault, 2nd vice commander; James Rancourt, adjutant; Anthony “Tony” Culpovitch, finance officer; David Devoe, chaplain; Harvey Moses, sergeant-at-arms; Gordon Smith, post historian; Amedeo Lauria, post service officer. 

At the conclusion of the installation, Don Caron, the new commander, was reminded by the installing officer that he has the duty of seeing that no one is turned away and is guided by the decisions of members. Caron then presented him with the gavel of his office.

FMI, join: www.americanlegionpost135.sabattus.net

2017-2018 American Legion Auxiliary officers are, from left, front row, Teresa Bradford, secretary/treasurer; Denise Michaud, vice president; Jen Caron, president; Debra Devoe, chaplain; Joan Caron, vice president; and Joan Caron Fournier, sergeant-at-arms. 2017-2018 Americam Legion officers are, back row, from left, Amedeo Lauria, service officer; Gordon Smith, historian; Joseph Michaud, 1st vice commander; Donald Caron, commander; Anthony C., finance officer; Jim Rancourt, adjutant; Harvey Moses, sergeant-at-arms; and David Devoe, chaplain.