Legion Post 77, Auxiliary install officers

RAYNE - Arceneaux Post No. 77 and Auxiliary Unit No. 77 of the American Legion held a joint installation of officers Tuesday evening, July 7, at the Legion Home.
Following the presentation of colors, Chaplain Robert Comeaux offered the opening prayer. David Simon led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Guests were introduced, including 7th District Legion Commander Joe Monroe, 7th District Auxiliary President Sue Hudson, 7th District Legion Judge Advocate Ed Hudson, 7th District Legion Vice Commander AJ Jones, 7th District Auxiliary Chaplain Jackie Monroe, 7th District Legion Color Bearers Dennis Hart, and Rayne Mayor Charles “Chuck” Robichaux.
On behalf of the City of Rayne, Mayor Robichaux spoke of the ongoing development of the Veterans Park and noted that brick pavers are still available for purchase at Rayne City Hall for only $75. He also stated the city has offered a monetary donation towards the project and urged everyone to purchase an engraved brick paver for the special walkway or make a monetary donation towards the project to be built in honor of all veterans.
7th District Auxiliary President Sue Hudson installed the Auxiliary Officers. In attendance to be sworn in were: President Bonnie Simon (15th year), First Vice President Louise Thibodeaux, Second Vice President Lena Domigue, Secretary Johnnie Olinger, Treasurer Peggy Fontenot, Chaplain Grace Guidry, Color Bearer Joyce Lyons.
Department Judge Advocate Ed Hudson installed Legion officers. Assuming their duties as 2015-2016 officers were Commander David Simon, 1st Vice Ray Olinger, 2nd Vice Bobby Alleman, 3rd Vice John Quebodeaux, Financial Officer Lorraine Gaines, Jr. Past Commander Gene Comeaux, Adjutant Lee John, Historian/Publicity Horace Thibodeaux, Chaplain Robert Comeaux, Judge Advocate Shane Mouton, Sgt-at-Arms Andrew Habetz, Color Bearers Wilson LeDoux and Harold Arceneaux, and Advisors to Commander Andrus Fontenot, Willis Credeur and Gilbert Cormier.
Commander Simon then made two special presentations, a 50-year continuous membership plaque to Horace Thibodeaux and a plaque of appreciation to Phil Fontenot for his help in organizing Legion bands and dances.
The evening closed with a delicious meal prepared by the Legion cooks.

By Lisa Soileaux, Rayne Acadian-Tribune