Seeks to rebut assertions made about American Legion post

Recently an article in the Sentinel ("Unsightly Area Near Dam to Get Cleanup, Walkway," Sentinel, Dec. 20) has been taken by some as an attack on the American Legion, an organization made up of veterans and their family members. Statements quoted in the article are not only false, they are misleading.

True statements would be that the money would be more beneficial if used to put sidewalks on streets that have none and that our children use to go back and forth to school, instead of being used for a cosmetic walkway.

And, yes, the borough does lease the land to the American Legion; however, no one has ever been denied access to the dam or property for recreation purposes, ever. In fact, when the town holds its annual fishing derby, the post is open to provide use of the restrooms.

And while the incident with a council member being told he could not park there had nothing to do with private property, and probably could have been handled more tactfully, it just so happens that the American Legion Squadron was sponsoring a motorcycle run for disabled veterans on that day and needed the space for participants.

Also, the fences that may give the appearance of private property were installed by the borough and have no signs anywhere denying entrance.

I challenge someone to tell me of another organization and/or business with a lease that allows public access. I think not. We do, because as Legion members our motto is "Service After Service. For Community, State and Nation."

The DeVoe Lake area, with the exception of the lake itself, is one our finest assets. And the American Legion will do what it has to in order to help keep it that way. We welcome the public.

Ed Seely

Past Commander American Legion Post No. 253

Spotswood

Member Spotswood Borough Council