When they think about the Hillsboro American Legion, most local folks picture in their mind a group of military veterans bringing the American Flag down Water Avenue during the annual Memorial Day Parade, and a 21-gun salute on the lakefront.

However, the rightfully proud men escorting Old Glory to the scene of the ceremony in front of  the Military Veterans Memorial do a lot more than that.

The 72 current members meet on the second Wednesday of every month in the Community Center and also enjoy a yearly Veterans Day Dinner.

It is tradition that every one of the eight Legion Posts in Vernon County takes an annual turn as hosts to a dinner meeting. The special gathering gives all the neighboring members a chance to enjoy a meal, chat, and swap ideas that have been successful.

The Hillsboro American Legion is in the capable hands of the current officers:

• Richard Sebranek - Commander

• Mike Nelson - Vice Commander

• Dan Benish - Second Vice President

• Jim Riebe - Adjutant

• Bryan Good - Financial Officer

• John Pesik - Service Officer

• Arnie Svacina - Historian

• Ralph Roberts - Chaplain

In addition, they hold an annual flag burning ceremony in July to properly dispose of worn out American flags that have been put into the special box from spring through fall next to the walk in front of the Memorial.

The official title of the Hillsboro American Legion group is Harrison-Jones Post who served in World War I and II, and are buried in Mount Vernon Cemetery across the highway.

Sebranek explained to the Sentry-Enterprise that the post also pays a special Memorial Day tribute to veterans who are buried in the 10 cemeteries in the area. Every year they place an American flag on all the graves of those who wore the uniform and served the country.

At the request of a deceased veteran’s family, an American Legion squad will attend the burial and offer a salute with "Taps."

So, the next time you see these proud patriots marching down Water Avenue, keep in mind that they have truly served their country well in the past and, in fact, are still serving it.

If you are interested in learning more information, or joining the American Legion, please call Sebranek at work (489-2280) or at home (489-3511). They are always looking for more veterans to join them.