The American Legion Thomas Tucker Post No. 204 celebrated it’s 100th Anniversary with a dinner held at the Veteran’s Memorial Hall earlier this month. Veterans and their families enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Greg Sella and served by the ladies of the Monticola Club.
The gala celebration of the post’s first hundred years was downsized because of the COVID-19 pandemic and attendees at the event remained properly socially-distanced throughout the evening.
The Commander of the post, Larry Rogers, presented guests with a history of Susanville’s American Legion post, which has remained a vital part of our community during it’s century in existence.
“Post namesake, Native American Thomas Tucker, was a Maidu born at Big Meadows (now Lake Almanor) in 1895 who moved to Susanville at an early age, where he was raised by his aunt and uncle Cap and Emma DeHaven,” explained Rogers.
“He first attended the Greenville Indian School, where he excelled in his studies. He was noted for his gifted vocals in singing, as well as his athletic abilities.”
According to Rogers, when the U.S. entered World War I, Thomas Tucker enlisted. On the fateful day, September 28th, 1918 he was killed in action in France, becoming the first casualty from Susanville in the War.
His comrades held him in high esteem and when The American Legion Chapter was formed in 1920, it was named in his honor, Thomas Tucker Post No. 204.
“His remains were brought back from France in 1921, like so many others then, and a funeral service was held on September 25, 1921 at the Susanville Cemetery. The American Legion was instrumental and placed a fitting monument.”
In 1940, a tree was planted in his memory at the Lassen County Courthouse, and a small marker placed with his name.
Rogers also talked about another American Legion project, the Avenue of Flags, which was established in May of 1992 and was made possible through the generous donation of flags which were presented to family members during military funeral honors conducted by the American Legion Post 204 Honor Guard.
“It now consists of more than 300 flags honoring the veterans for their service to our nation,” said Rogers.
“The flags are flown at Diamond Crest Cemetery on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Flags are on display from 8:00a.m. to 3:00p.m., weather permitting since they are not outdoor flags.”
“Great care is taken to preserve these flags and present them in memory of those who answered the call to duty to protect our freedom.”
Rogers also briefly mentioned several programs through which the Post supports veterans and community youth.
