The Romeoville American Legion noticed something. When their legion members died, the spouse of that member seemed to fade away. To remedy this, the legion has begun making visits to widows, bringing flowers, a certificate, and, most importantly, their time. Member Art Arellano said that when he and other members went to visit some widows, he expected they would just hand them the flowers and certificate and the group would be on their way. Instead, he said they were welcomed in with open arms. They sat in the house (with masks on of course) and talked. They learned things about the post member who passed away that they never knew before.

“We aim to make the family feel a bit more comfortable and ask if they need help with anything,” said Chris Daley, Commander of the Romeoville American Legion. “We hope this program shows people that they can always come to us. Once an American Legion family, always an American Legion family.”

Arellano encourages the community to make visits of their own. “It doesn’t just have to be a veteran,” he said. “If you have a neighbor who is living by themselves, spend a few bucks to get some flowers or just go over there to say hello. There are a lot of people out there who just don’t have anyone to talk to.” 

“We’re very fortunately to have such great people in our American Legion,” said Mayor Noak. “This is another great thing this legion has done, on top of many other outstanding contributions to our community.”

For more information on Romeoville’s American Legion Post 52, call them at 815-905-1202.