Oct – Dec 2023

New Year’s Eve Party December 31, 2023

Some of the Party Favors.
The mugs were designed and made by SAL Commander Shaun Butler.
Aaron Maniscalco and Karen Bowman enjoying the evening.
Dancing the night away.
Left: Bob Braman celebrates with Heidi and Jan.
Right: Mark Baca and Cindy Skultety.
The food was great!
SAL Commander Shaun Butler and Ron Hoffman, a veteran of the Vietnam War
Another great event at the Legion. Thanks to the SAL for organizing a great end of one year and the start of another.
Photo Booth – HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
The Fay Brothers, always a fun time when they play.
The photo booth
The Photo Booth was busy
We received a grant of $4,000.00 from the San Diego Community foundation
to help cover expenses for the New Year Eve Party.
The San Diego Senior Community Foundation (SDSCF) is working to improve the quality of life
for seniors in our region through the power of philanthropy.
For more information visit their website at: SDSCF

Wreaths Across America December 16, 2023

Remember, Honor, Teach
Remember the fallen. Honor those who serve.
Teach the next generation the value of freedom.
Karen Bowman, Chairperson for Post 365 and Post 7041 heads up the Annual event.
The Legion and VFW participated at both
Miramar National Cemetery
and Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery.
No matter where they served or how Wreaths Across America strives to ensure that no one is forgotten.
Marines at Miramar National Cemetery participate in the Opening Ceremony.
American Legion Riders365 at Miramar National Cemetery.
Remembering the fallen.
Tim Herington places a wreath.
Legion Riders Chapter 365 members: Javier Collazo, Art Haeussler, Ray LaBouve (Kneeling), Aaron Cross, Tim Herington, Rick Batson, and Steve Kuhn participated in placing more than 200 wreaths at Miramar National Cemetery

Movie Night at the Legion December 9, 2023

Our first Movie Night. A huge success!!!
The movie screen – believe me…
See, I told you
First movie was a favorite Christmas film – KEVIN!!!!!”
A night out(side) at the movies. Great time. Watch for future events.

Legion Riders 365 Christmas Party December 8, 2023

Don and Andrea Drew
The two Kims Butler and Sliffe
Your server, Javier.
(R-L) Bob Braman, Jim Sliffe and friend
At right – Alina Diaz and Marisa Kuntz wrap some gifts
The Ugly Sweater contest contestants
Drea serving some Christmas cheer

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day December 7, 2023

Bertha Sterling talks with Linda Dudik, President of the World War II Experience and Chapter 31, the North County Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association.
Joanie Culver opens the ceremonies. Her father was a Marine stationed on Oahu on December 7, 1941.
Color Guard – Assault Craft Unit-5 (ACU-5) Camp Pendleton, CA.
is the United States Navy’s Pacific operating unit for the Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC)
Linda Dudik – Chapter 31, the North County Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, was founded in 1986. There were 18 original members, but at one time membership rose to more than 146.
With the passing George Coburn, age 104, the Chapter has no living members as of December 7, 2023.
Chuck Atkinson, Veterans Association North County (VANCE) is the Master of Ceremonies this year. Chuck was a member of the Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Air Force during his military career.
Michael Timson, bugler who has played TAPS at the event for the past 14 years.
Bruce Parker SAL Squadron 365 member.
Jerry Stephens, E-Board member Post 365.
Marisa Kuntz, Director of Legion Riders 365 shares a moment with Samuel Moore, SAL Squadron 365 Member
Marisa Kuntz has a chat with a friend…
VFW Post 7041 Commander Terry Moxley (L) observes the proceedings.
The American Legon Post 365 and VFW Post 7041 and their Auxiliaries, along with the SAL Squadron 365 and Riders 365 were all represented at this year’s Remembrance Day. (L-R) Brad Sakemi, Commander Post 365, Marisa Kuntz, Director Legion Riders 365, Kevin Leahy, Judge Advocate Post 365, Karen Bowman, Secretary/Treasurer for both Auxiliaries Post 365 & Post 7041, Alina Diaz, Assistant Sgt-at-Arms Post 365, Tom Moore, 1st Vice Commander Post 365, Samuel Moore, SAL Squadron 365 member, Art Haeussler, Service Officer for Post 365 & Post 7041, and Jerry Stephens, E-Board member Post 365. At right is Michael Timson, bugler who has played TAPS at the event for the past 14 years.
A tradition at Pearl Harbor Day Remembrances is to cast a handful of rose petals into the water as a tribute to those who were there on that infamous day.
Here,  Bertha Sterling, pays her respects.
SAL member Samuel Moore, son of Post 365 1st Vice Commander Tom Moore, pays his respect with a little more than a handful of rose petals. Samuel, much like his Dad, always thinks “BIG”
Post 7041 Commander Tery Moxley and Ray Johnson Post 365 Historian.

Vista Christmas Parade December 2, 2023

American Legion Post 365 and VFW Post 7041 participated in this year’s Vista Christmas Parade.
It was a great day for all. Merry Christmas, everyone!!
Norm Linek and SAL Commander Shaun Butler getting the truck ready for the Christmas Parade.
Nice outfits, guys.
US Army Veterans -Norm Linek, Post 365 Commander Brad Sakemi, Mark Baca, and Rick Batson
Parade participants (L-R) Front row: Nolan Sakemi, Kim Butler, Tegan Butler;
Back Row: Cindy Skultety, Mark Baca, Norm Linek, Brad Sakemi, Rick Batson, Javier and Colleen Collazo and Tommy Arseneau
SAL Commandr Shaun Butler and Post 365 Commander Brad Sakemi put together a great event.
At the left is Santa’s favorite Elf, Alina Diaz and at right is Rick Batson standing on truck .
Thanks to all the Legionnaires who helped make the Parade a success.
Nolan Sakemi with Dad Brad.
I love a parade.
Hazel Kuhl with hr Mom , Carol, along with Army Veteran Norm Linek
and Navy Veteran Tommy Arseneau.
Tegan Butler along with SAL member Diego Seda showing off the banner that was donated for the parade.
Hazel Kuhl having fun at her very first parade.
Kids love parades!!!
Mandy Sakemi waves the American Flag to the spectators.
The flatbed was loaned to us by DMI, a local business. Thanks for all your help!!
The banners on both vehicles were donated by SAL Commander Shaun Butler.
American Legion Post 365 parade participants enjoying the parade.
The truck, a M923 A2 was loaned to the Legion by Tim Pearson from his private collection.

Army National Guard Birthday December 13, 2023

Thanksgiving Dinner November 23, 2023

American Legion Post 365 held its most ambitious Thanksgiving Dinner this year.
More than 100 members and guests attended.
The volunteers were fantastic and the active duty, retired and military dependents had a great time.
Monica Camargo and Karen Bowman
with the 1st of many turkeys…
Steve Sierad volunteered to cut up the turkeys.
Don’t know if he knew he’d wind up cutting more than 200 lbs. of bird. Thanks, Steve.
Lora Wood, Monica Camargo and Marisa Kuntz on KP Duty.
Thank You, Ladies!!
Monica and Marisa share a moment while Steve continues to carve.
Servers (L-R) Aaron Maniscalco, Sandee Murphy, Diana, and Doug Hill made sure everyone had a full plate.
Lora Wood asking Past Commander Steve Miller if he can eat it all…
Come on back for seconds!!
A great day at Post 365. Happy Thanksgiving!
More than 100 guests were present for a great Thanksgiving Dinner
Aaron Maniscalco (left) on the serving line. Aaron is the youngest son of the late Larry Maniscalco who taught us all what good Italian food was when he served his great Italian dishes on Monday night dinners.
We’re ready for some pie!!!
SAL Commander Shaun Butler, wife Kim, Marisa – a friend and bartender from Post 149, along with Norm Linek, spending time with Judy Leonardi and grandson.
Past Commander Chris Yates, SAL Commander Shaun Butler and Norm Linek with our newest Legion Members – US Marines – Luis Daniel and Jake.
Nolan Sakemi (right) with friends. They wanted LEGGOs not turkey.
Kittens with Mittens
Mandy Sakemi and Marisa Kuntz

Karaoke Night November 18,2023

 
The Post held their 4th Karaoke Night.
Each one is better than the last.
Thanks to the SONS for their sponsorship of the event.
K.J. Billy Bob taking care of business.
Another great Karaoke Night.
In addition to some fun singing, members and guests had a great spaghetti dinner.
A little garlic bread to clean the plate… “Can I get seconds?”
Is that Elvis!. Nope, It’s Norm Linek, getting ready to do “Love Me Tender” NOT.
The Everly Brothers, The Righteous Brothers, Hall & Oats???
You want to dance while you sing? Go for it.

Post 365 General Meeting November 18, 2023

Post Commander Brad Sakemi passing along information on upcoming events, including the December 9th Drive-In Movie Event and the Thanksgiving Dinner. Check the Post Calendar page on the website for more information.
Service Officer Art Haeussler reminds us of the importance of the DD-214 document. Also, Art reported on the success of the recent North County Veterans Stand Down; more than 600 veterans were helped including distribution of 300 pair of eyeglasses and 200 veterans receiving dental care.
Riders365 Director Marisa Kuntz updates the membership on the Riders upcoming Christmas Party. Her “rapid-fire” delivery has Finance Officer Terry Moxley (left) and Service Officer Art Haeussler (foreground) writing furiously trying to get all the information.
Sgt-at-Arms Mark Baca drapes the charter for Dan Canright and Kevin Gascon who passed away this month. Dan, a member of the E-Board gave his all, right to the very end. Kevin, a member for several years, passed unexpectedly just a week ago.
Both Marines, they will be missed.
The membership. Veterans from all branches: attend the meetings, participate, and volunteer.
It’s what make our post “The place to come to for great events”.
Post Historian Ray Johnson talked about the upcoming Pearl Harbor Day event at the Little Oceanside Pier in the Harbor area.
From last year’s Pearl Harbor Day Event: Samuel Moore, son of Post 1st Vice Commander Tom Moore is greeted by Service Officer Art Haeussler.
The Young meets The Old…

Lo-Country Shrimp Boil November 11, 2023

Comments from several of the people who attended the event included : “…the meal was some of the best food they ever had at the Post.
Everything was cooked to perfection…”
Terry Moxley and Mo Motier getting some shrimp ready.
The Shrimp-Boil Crew. Lora Wood, Monica Camargo, Terry Moxley and Bruce Mackamul.
Note: Check out Bruce, doing what he does best.
Bruce portioning out the fresh corn.
Not pictured are Ray Johnson and D.J. shucking corn.
Excuse me, I’ve been corrected, corn is not shucked it’s husked, peas are shucked.
Past Post 365 Commander Haywood Bagley and friend “Mac” enjoying the meal.
It was another sellout, so next time we do this, be sure to get on the list.

Marine Corps Birthday November 10, 2023

Terry Moxley, Commander of VFW Post 7041 opens the festivities.
The November 10th Cake Cutting Ceremony is also the 13th Anniversary of the Official opening
of the Post building at 1234 S. Santa Fe Avenue.
Alexander “Donny” Donnelly – youngest Marine and Stanley “Stosh” Buczkowski-Oldest Marine
look on as Post 365 Historian Ray Johnson cuts the cake.
Donnelly: DOB 12/14/2000 Date of Enlistment 8/19/2019 – Buczkowski: DOB 9/26/1926 Date of Enlistment 3/4/1944
Sound problem with the video. Will we ever get it right???
Turn up the volume!!
Chip Dykes reads General Lejeune’s Birthday Message
Chip Dykes doing double duty as he leads the singing of The Marines’ Hymn.
The Marine’s Hymn. Everyone know the first verse, but without Chip Dykes…..
there would be a lot of mumbling on verses two and three….
Tom Moore and young Son Samuel.
In the background is Larry Gosnell another Marine who spent some time at Chu Lai.
At the far left is Past American Legion Post 365 Commander Steve Miller.

Lyn Leahy and friends. Lyn’s husband is Kevin Leahy, Post 365 Judge Advocate
Bob Goldstein USMC. Bob was stationed in Chu Lai in 1966.
Cynthia Skultety and Riders365 Director, Marisa Kuntz
Joe and Marisa Kuntz selling tickets for their Annual Gun Raffle.
Samuel Moore and Nolan Sakemi. Future Marines?
Well, maybe not Nolan, his Dad is Brad Sakemi 3rd Generation US Army Veteran and Commander of American Legion Post 365. Wouldn’t want to mess with TRADITION!
Jahneia and Retired Marine GySgt. Mo Motier.
Along with Kathleen and Drea (not pictured) they kept the line for drinks moving at doubletime!
John Zalipiski. John, 90 years young, is a retired Marine Captain.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARINES!

Marine Corps Flag Raising November 2, 2023

In honor of the United States Marine Corps 248th birthday,
the traditional Branch of Service flag raising took place on November 2nd at the post.
The Marine Corps flag will fly for the month of November in honor of all Marines, past, present and future.
Thanks to Karen Bowman, Post 365 Auxiliary Secretary/Treasurer and Marine wife for the photos.
Bob Goldstein and Larry Gosnell assist in replacing the US Navy Branch of Service flag and replacing it with the USMC flag. The flags for each Branch of Service are flown on the month of their respective birthdays
Post 365 Historian Ray Johnson raises the USMC Branch of Service flag as Bob Goldstein and Larry Gosnell salute. All three Post 365 members are USMC Veterans who served in Vietnam.
There will be a cake cutting ceremony for the birthday on November 10th at 2:00 PM at the Post.  Join us in celebrating – all branches of service are invited. Oorah!!

Halloween Party October 28, 2023

American Legion Auxiliary 365 held the Annual Halloween Party on Saturday.
A great time with some really fun costumes.
Karen and Monica served a spaghetti dinner with meatballs (on Halloween it’s called – blood, brains & tumors
and for dessert Karen had her famous “witches fingers” cookies.
We thank all the Auxiliary members who helped make the event spooktacular!
I AM GOING TO RE-ENLIST TOMORROW MORNING AT 8:00 AM!!!
Brad and Mandy – The Commander and Olive Oyl. PERFECT
I’ll have a double, bartender
The Bride of Frankenstein – mmmmm, that good
Colleen Collazo – Morticia Addams
Javier Collazo – Himself
Lora Wood – Carrie
Mary Ann Maron – Forever a teenager
Mark Baca (IT) and
Cynthia Skultety (Wednesday Addams)
Brad Sakemi, Bob Braman and Rick Batson
Monica Camargo and Karen Bowman, a couple of good lookin’ punkins who did all the cooking for the party. Thanks for everything!!
Kim Davis and husband getting some “Witches Fingers” from Colleen Collazo.
“Don’t bite your nails”!
Kim (A very cute devil) and husband Shaun Butler (in his Uniform of the Day), Post 365 Commander Brad Sakemi and wife, Mandy (the perfect Popeye and Olive Oyl)
A photo of your Post Historian who didn’t make it to the party last night.
But he used to get dressed up for Halloween, back in the day.
Here he is in 1958 at W T Grant Company in Hamden, CT.
Five months later I traded in my pair of Colt .45’s for an M-1 rifle.
The rest, as they say, is HISTORY (Ray Johnson)

ALR365 Riders visit to Chula Vista Veterans Home-28 October 2023

Saturday 28 Oct, ALR 365 went to Chila Vista Veterans home for a Halloween visit to spend some time with veterans, and while there handed out Halloween candy.

Toys For Tots Campaign – 2023

Post 365 Commander Brad Sakemi, a Third Generation US Army Veteran and his wife, Mandy, setting up one of the USMC Reserve Toys For Tots gift collection boxes. They ask for your donations of new unwrapped toys (or donations). This is just another example of how the US Military Branches work together, Army Veterans helping out with Marine Corps Programs. Oorah! and Hooah!

California American Legion College-2023

Post 365 Commander Brad Sakemi (front row right) is attending the 2023 California American Legion College.
He is in some mighty good company. Christopher S. Yates, past Post 365 Commander (Top row right) is also there.
Congratulations to Brad. Maybe by hanging around with Chris, a little “Marine” will rub off on him.
On Chris’s right is Past President of Post 365 Auxiliary, Judy Leonardi  
Area 5 Vice Commander, David Brambila presents Post 365 Commander Brad Sakemi with his diploma.

North County Vista Stand Down October 19-22, 2023

Due to a last minute cancellation, American Legion Post 365, VFW Post 7041, SONS Squadron 365 and ALRiders365 joined forces to do a last minute support of feeding 250 Homeless Veterans during NCVSD.
Volunteers. Bob Braman, Rick Batson, Mike Gervais, Jack Bohm and Art Haeussler. Missing in photo is Terry Moxley!  Our Sons and Riders both financed the meal!  Best Group of Caring Vista Veterans! Also, a shout out to Johnny Beans for his delicious Baked Beans and to Reser’s Foods for donating pasta Salads for all! 
Also, Jim Rutan, owner of Big Jim’s 395 Grill in Vista had received a call early in the week to support the setup staff and volunteers.  Jim didn’t hesitate to support this incredible support for our Homeless Veterans!

Forgotten Sons MC Event October 23, 2023

The Forgotten Sons MC held a fund raising event at the Post with profits going to the History Flight.
Catering the event was Vyking Smoke Haus.
Now that’s a smoker!
The best Tri-tip EVER!
And the other menu items were just as good.
He goes by Vyking – and he knows Bar-B-Que!
During the event Post 365 Service Officer Art Haeussler was awarded an Honor from the Forgotten Sons MC.  This engraved honor was presented to him for their Annual Live to Ride Event at our post. Art was totally honored to be presented an engraved Marine K-Bar!

General Meeting October 21, 2023

2nd Vice Commander Joe Kuntz brings the membership to order.
Joe filled in for Commander Brad Sakemi who was away for school.
Service Officer Art Haeussler bring the membership up to date on bills in Congress and other items of importance.
Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms Alina Diaz drapes the Charter in remembrance of Jerry Moore.
Post Historian Ray Johnson gave a tribute to Jerry Moore whose hard work back in 2010 was instrumental in bringing the post building electrical system up to the standard required in order to pass the final inspection prior to the grand opening. Jerry was a retired US Navy veteran who served in Vietnam and was always available to take care of electrical issues.
Jerry was an avid NASCAR fan. Rest in Peace, Jerry.
SAL Commander Shaun Butler gives info on SAL Membership and Website useage.
Please visit the website for information and the latest news at https://vistapost.org/
SAL Commander Shaun Butler presents a check for $500.00
to North County Veterans Stand Down Chairman Matt Foster.
The donation was from SAL Squadron 365.
Riders365 relaxing after their Executive Committee meeting. Javier Collazo-camera magnet.
The Riders, under the direction of Chapter Director Marisa Kuntz, have stepped up recently and held events that have helped attract new guests and members.

Oktoberfest October 7, 2023

Sons of the American Legion Squadron 365 hosted Oktoberfest 2023 at the Post. Great food, costume contests, commemorative mugs, live music and a great event. Thanks to Shaun Butler, Squadron Commander and all those who assisted in making this event a great success.

Mark Baca doing a little hustling for the event.
Cynthia Skultety and Marisa Kuntz inviting passersby to stop in and enjoy the fun
Post 365 1st Vice Commander Tom Moore, Commander Brad Sakemi and his wife, Mandy enjoy the festivities.
Norm Linek on his way for a refill….
Past Post 365 Commander Haywood Bagley
AKA “The Bratwurst King”.
Visitors Gary Lewis from American Legion Post 79 Riverside and Jackie Trimble, with son Nick, from Post 200 Lake Elsinore came down to join in the fun. Gary is a big NASCAR and Drag Racing fan and we had a  long conversation about both sports.
Shaun Butler and wife Kim went all out to make sure this was a premier event.
Thanks to you both for all the hard work.
Mark Baca and Cynthis Skultety
dressed for the occasion.
Relaxing on the patio with friends after a great bratwurst, potato salad, a cool beer and a fantastic soft pretzel.
Enjoying the moment…
Lederhosen – Uniform of the Day
Norm Linek and his friend Bob. Great guys.
Neither of them ever at a loss for words, especially if the conversation is about the US Army.
Karen Bowman in her Oktoberfest outfit. This photo was taken in 1974 when she was stationed with the Marine Security Guard Detachment in Vienna, Austria. WOW!!
Karen today all dressed up again. You haven’t aged a day!! The smile is still there. Thanks for all the hard work you do here at the post.
DJ Mike supplied all the “Oompah” music for the event. And he got a great mug (full) for his efforts.
Kim Butler, Mandy Sakemi, and Melisa Kuntz all helped make it happen. Thanks, Ladies! Note to the Oversight Committee: Next year we need a Best Dressed award for the ladies. I see a 3 way tie here!!!
The Best Dressed Award is presented to Joe Kuntz by Shaun Butler.
(L-R) Keith, Mary, Sheri, Jeff, and Norm Linek. Great folks who stopped by for the fun.
Darth Vader (sounds German to me) stopped by.
That’s really Nolan Sakemi underneath the mask.
Melisa and Joe Kuntz celebrating Joe’s award for best dressed.
The Mug holding contest. It’s called Masskrugstemmen and is a traditional German beer stein holding contest. Hold a full mug of beer (about 5 lbs.) at arms-length for as long as you can. Last man holding is the winner. We had nine contestants start. The end came 5 minutes and 27 seconds later. I filmed the entire event and MY arm hurt just holding a cellphone! SAL member Nick Rota was the winner. I don’t remember what he won but it was probably some Salonpas for his elbow and shoulder. Just in case your interested, the record is 21 minutes and 17 seconds.
Doug Hill “Bratman”
The Apron thing is disturbing. Look at the photo on the right. These guys haven’t seen their “Abs” in 20 years…
Jim Sliffe was in charge of the Soft Pretzels.
Jim knows his pretzels, they were great!
Our own Jahneia taking care of all the thirsty members and guests. And always with a smile.