An American Legion post in Belmont, Ohio, is trying to attract new members to avoid losing its charter, WTRF reported.
Post 312 currently counts 21 members, per the station. Should that figure fall under 15, the post would close, members said.
According to WTRF, the post differs from common assumptions about Legion halls. It operates without a bar, restaurant or poker machines, members told the station, and about 95 percent of its membership is 75 or older. Members attribute younger veterans' limited interest partly to a perception that such posts are places where older men gather to drink, the station reported, adding that younger veterans often have family, housing and other commitments.
The post says it stays active throughout the year with community work. Members told WTRF they contribute to a children's Christmas fund at Union Local, seek to provide scholarships, help pay for grave maintenance in the village and decorate 700 graves annually across six area cemeteries. The post also houses the Tri State Veterans Museum, which WTRF described as holding historic artifacts and monuments.
Meetings take place at 101 East Barrister Street on the first Monday of each month from March through October, according to the station. Members said they welcome veterans of other wars and conflicts, and WTRF listed 740-312-5444 for more information.