American Legion Post 24 held its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, May 20, at the Mesquite Veterans Center. Post Commander Deborah Stephenson presided over the meeting, discussing initiatives to meet the needs of the veterans and the community.

The Legion is committed to the community of Mesquite, especially the youth. Scholarships in the amount of $1,500 were awarded to two seniors at Beaver Dam High School this month ($1,000 to one student and $500 to another.) Virgin Valley High School received three $500 scholarships. Stephenson is extremely proud of the oratorical competition.

“It was non-existent after COVID and we were able to resurrect it,” she said.

The competition is open to all high schoolers.

“The best part of this is that they can compete every year they are in high school.” In December of 2024, five contestants discussed the American Constitution and how it affects citizens. Then they each presented on one of four amendments. The winner goes to the national competition and will take home $25,000 if he or she wins. The contest is open to Virgin Valley High School, Moapa Valley, Beaver Dam and the Christian Academy. The competition is just one of the ways the Legion promotes Americanism.

Boys State and Girls State are programs for the youth to show character, leadership and academic leadership. They are given opportunities to learn how to be legislators.

One of the initiatives discussed was having volunteers reach out to the widows of deceased veterans, checking up on them to make sure they are okay.

The Legion’s major fundraiser, the American Legion Golf Tournament, will take place June 17 at the Casablanca Golf Course. It will celebrate 106 years of American service. The last day to register is June 6. For those who cannot attend, there is a 50/50 raffle. The proceeds from the fundraisers go to the scholarships and flags. In April, 215 flags were placed in Mesquite’s two cemeteries.