American Legion Post 208 Color Guard
Serves our Veterans and the Community
Da Color Guard and Staley Da Bear 1.2023
You will see the Merle Guild American Legion Post 208 Color Guard leading community parades! Presenting the U.S. Flag, the American Legion Flag, and the P.O.W. Flag, escorted by Rifleman. Also, on occasion, the Flags of all branches of U.S. Military Services are presented in these activities.
These dedicated Veterans are members of the American Legion Post 208 in Arlington Heights. Their activities, as members of the American Legion Post 208 Color Guard, expands their volunteer services. These services include activities that honor our veterans and those currently serving at home and abroad.
SPRING FLING 2023 Pictures Dinner and dancing to live music!
Currently there are 20 veterans in Post 208 Color Guard ranging in age from 35 to 86. They represent military service performed during WWII, Korea, Viet Nam, Desert Storm and the Global War on Terrorism. At any given time, several members are available to present the nation’s colors at community events, and at Post 208 activities. According to Color Guard Commander Gene Fehringer, being asked to represent the armed forces of the United States at public events is “something we all take great pride in doing for the Post, and to remind the public of the enormous commitment made by our country’s service men and women to protect our nation and our freedom.”
Over the years, the Color Guard has been invited to perform at Schools, Senior Retirement Homes, Arlington Park Racetrack, and numerous dedications and ceremonies in the local area. In addition, the Color Guard members are frequently asked to honor a deceased local veteran at their wake. The Color Guard offers a brief service and present a Bible to the veteran’s family.
On Memorial Day, the Color Guard marches in the Arlington Heights Parade. We present the Colors, honoring all branches of the Military, at a ceremony honoring our Veterans at Veterans Park.
Each year on Flag Day, June 14th, these proud veterans present the colors and perform a 21-gun salute at the Merle Guild American Legion Post 208.
On the Fourth of July, the Color Guard, again, marches in the Arlington Heights Parade. Presenting at least the U.S. Flag, the P.O.W. Flag, and the American Legion Flag, while being escorted by Rifleman.
For Veterans Day, the Color Guard makes appearances at multiple locations, honoring our Veterans with a 21 Gun Salute.The Color Guard is an entirely self-funded group that does not charge for public appearances. The members raise funds through an annual dinner/dance and through public donations that help cover the cost of Uniforms, Flags, Bibles and visits to Chicago area Veteran’s Hospitals.
To contact the the Merle Guild Post 208 Color Guard, please email us at:
post208colorguard@gmail.com