Editor:

Since 1985, I have been a member of the American Legion as well as a volunteer, hall manager and former commander. But time has come to resign my duties and retire my volunteer efforts, as life has changed many of my circumstances.

Since the beginning, it has been an interworking of the community and the Legion, something for which I am profoundly grateful. The American Legion Post 202 in Brentwood has been in existence since 1920 and has been in the care of Veteran's Hall for those past 90 years.

At the onset, several initial veterans of WWI dug the downstairs room, where many of our meetings were held. Fellow member Jim Timms built the bathroom, Ed Stack donated the exterior awnings, and the fence around the missile out front along with the concrete was donated by Frank Marten of Delta Fence. Former Mayor Kidd was an integral part of helping the Legion, and we in turn were able to extend the help to organizations such as the Boy Scouts.

So many wonderful former hall managers and Legion members worked tirelessly, such as Fred Merriot, Vern Currier, Jim Timms and Arnold Griggs. To them, our community should be thankful. Four of our members have been recognized as Citizens of the Year.

Over the years, I met and worked alongside wonderful volunteers dedicated to our community's youth. Thank you for your tireless efforts to make a difference in Brentwood. I want to thank the Brentwood Police Department for its diligent work keeping the hall and downtown safe. Finally, the Chamber of Commerce has been a welcoming and warm organization that has made my job enjoyable.

Thank you again, city of Brentwood and the American Legion, for the opportunity to work with you in hopes of making Brentwood a better place to live and serve. God bless you.

John Becerra

Brentwood