This Veterans organization reflects the contribution, comradeship and diligence during the Era of Segregation - 1919 to 1946. The dedication of the history of the United States of America and the efforts to make a change to sustain with honors. William Weech American Legion Post 168 and (Historic) VFW Walter R. Mickens Post 6021 on March 21, 2012 received recognition in the History of the United States of America; after nominated for listing in the National Register of Historic Places by the Florida Department of State, Division of Historical Resources.
Key West natives returning home from the Great Wars challenged another hurdle in Life to continue their services to the many comrades, their families, community, state and nation, even abroad. This joint venture of two Veteran organizations signifies a community within a community at such times when this Country still endured separation of races. The uniqueness of this establishment on this Island off the Florida Straits implemented a relationship and respect for achievements.
The members joined with many political leaders and community in whole to build this structure with their skills, talents and compassion for what is right. On March 3, 1946, VFW Walter R. Mickens Post 6021 received their Charter under the Veteran of Foreign Wars and June 27, 1946 William Weech Post 168 chartered under the American Legion Department of Florida. These veterans were members of both organizations, who collectively decided to join forces and construction their own Post Home under one roof. The land purchased from Key West Post Master Fred Dion and wife Margaret Dion for $10.00 and other valuables in consideration of both Posts. They dedicated the building on August 25, 1951; with the help of members from both Posts and Ladies Auxiliary fundraising efforts, donations/contributions from community businesses, and assistance from Arthur Sawyer Post 28 until the completion on December 10, 1952.
Today, William Weech American Legion Post 168 remains the sole organization of this Joint Venture continuing their purpose as a Veteran’s Organization. Our Mission Statement:
American Legion Preamble
For God and Country, we associate ourselves together for the following purposes
To Uphold and Defend the Constitution of the United States of America; To Maintain Law and Order; to Foster and Perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism; To Preserve the memories and incidents of our association in the Great Wars; to Inculcate an individual sense of obligation to the community, state and nation; to combat the Autocracy of both the Classes and the Masses; To make right the master of might; to promote peace and goodwill on earth; to Safeguard and transmit to posterity the principals of Justice, freedom and Democracy; To consecrate and sanctify our Comradeship by our devotion to mutual Helpfulness.
The restoration of this building will begin in early or later July 2012. Your contribution/donations and support will assist this project with appreciation. The history of this Joint Venture was copyright #TXu1-766-307 on July 19, 2011, and is in process of publication.