Hellertown American Legion Celebrates Rebirth

A rededication and flag-raising ceremony at Hellertown's Edward H. Ackerman American Legion Post 397 was a time for emotional reflection upon the chapter's recent past, but more than anything, Commander John Higginbotham stressed, it was a time to turn the page.

"We're headed into the future," he affirmed.

In front of several dozen attendees who gathered outside the 87-year-old edifice at Main and Chestnut streets, Higginbotham said the old American flag will be displayed in a box inside the building.

That flag—which Higginbotham acknowledged has been a source of recent "anguish" for members—was lowered and a sparkling new one was raised before a salute was fired by the Legion's honor guard.

State Rep. Bob Freeman (D-136) delivered remarks and remembered that when he was first elected to represent Hellertown as a state legislator in the early 1980s, Post 397 "was buzzing" with activity.

"With this dedication we are creating a rebirth of this wonderful facility," he said.

Mayor Richard Fluck also spoke, thanking the volunteers who've devoted hundreds if not thousands of man-hours to restoring the building after a closure of nearly five years.

"We will be forever grateful (to them)," Fluck said.

Higginbotham presented certificates of appreciation to three men he called "the heavy-lifters" in terms of their volunteerism: Jack Dapko, Tom Tierney and John Mulholland.

He also stressed to all in attendance that he wants the post to become an information clearinghouse for veterans of all ages; a place where they can learn more about the many resources available to them.

As Fluck said, the reopening of the post once again offers local vets "a place to call home."