This Bergen County American Legion Post Is In Danger Of Closing

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — There used be life at the Ridgefield American Legion Post 221.

Veterans of World War II and the Korean War were members. The post used to award scholarships and sponsor Boy Scout troops and local baseball teams.

But as veterans of those conflicts have grown old and died, so has the post. Now, there are just two active members: Commander Frank Ganci and Vice Commander Caonabo Reyes.

"It used to be very active, but the veterans who are still alive are in their 90s and have stopped coming," said Reyes, a Marine veteran of Operation Desert Storm who retired from the military in 1999. "Now there's hardly anybody left."

The post received its temporary charter in 1919 and its permanent charter on June 24, 1921. It is one of 41 in Bergen County.

The building is in desperate need of repair. The plumbing needs to be replaced, a new roof needs to be installed, and there is no air conditioning.

Bergen County American Legion Commander Francis Carrasco is asking all eligible veteran and active duty service members to help save the post. Veterans do not have to live in Ridgefield to join. Annual dues are $35.

"American Legion Post 221 has been a pillar of the community of Ridgefield, and surrounding towns, for decades," Carrasco said in a statement. "Without members, the American Legion cannot continue its mission of helping veterans and being their voice on important issues including such as health care, education, transition to civilian life and benefits."

Anyone wishing to join the post or make a donation is asked to call Reyes at 201-835-2640.

Related: Bergen Navy Veteran Who Died In Afghanistan Loved His Country

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com