By Jennifer Ersalesi
The Murray-Hodge American Legion Post 453 is an essential historical building in our Borough. In 1947, black servicemen decided to create a post where they could finally feel comfortable and united. After the government provided the land allotment on Meadow Road, they began constructing the Post using materials from different demolished buildings around town. Shortly after, the Legion received its charter. In 2016, Post 453 almost lost its charter, however, Charles Gunn stepped in and said he would become the Commander and do his best to keep the charter. He started by increasing membership by recruiting new members and contacting former Post members who had since moved away. Many of those former members paid the fees necessary to reinstate their memberships. Both The South Bergenite and The Record published articles about the hardships of the Post which helped raise awareness and bring in more funds. To read one of those articles, click here. In 2017, the Post signed a twenty-five-year lease and has continued to be active.
Rutherford’s Murray-Hodge American Legion Post 453 is committed to serving the country through programs that support veterans who have sacrificed for our country. The Post is also actively involved in the community by hosting the Scouts and other community groups.
The Murray-Hodge American Legion Post 453 posted on social media, "Among the Post’s early members were men who were a part of our country’s legendary Tuskegee Airmen and men who fought in The Battle of the Bulge and other historic World War II battles. In addition, Murray-Hodge American Legion Post 453 has had members who served in the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and many other critical moments in the history of our United States. The Post is among the most historic buildings in Rutherford, yet too many drive by it unaware of the patriotism and character that has been the foundation of Murray-Hodge American Legion Post 453."
To learn more about the history of American Legion Post 453, click here.
Since the Post was built seventy-eight years ago, it currently requires renovation. In their social media post, Post 453 explained, "The ceiling must be replaced, the electrical updated, the front doors and flooring need to be replaced, a new refrigerator and stove, and a new outdoor sign are also necessary. With strong support, the Post hopes to pave the driveway."
Commander Charles Gunn, who served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, is the Commander of Murray-Hodge American Legion Post 453. Commander Gunn has led the rejuvenation of the Post.
Over the last several months, Ruth Barnes and Karen Kane have spent time at the Post trying to help get the building cleaned up and organized in anticipation of upcoming renovations and upgrades.
TIR: After spending so much time in the Murray-Hodge American Legion Post 453 over the last few weeks, what stands out to you the most regarding the need for the Post to be renovated and upgraded?
Ruth Barnes: If we can bring the Legion up to date, that would help us rent the facilities, hold fundraisers, and make the Legion sustainable for the future.
TIR: Why is it important to renovate this location? Â
RB: This legion was built by black men who did not feel welcome in other places, and yet these men were willing to lay down their lives to protect our country, a country that was not very accepting of them. This Legion is seeped in history; two prior members were part of the Tuskegee Airmen. I believe that this is just a very historical place in our town.
TIR: What is your connection to this project?
RB: Karen Kane and I did not have a personal connection to this project until we went to the Army-Navy game that they hosted as a small fundraiser in December. We saw the historic nature of this Legion and spoke with Mr. Gunn, who is the Commander, and realized that quite a bit of help is needed due to a lack of funding and manpower in the past. The Legion is in desperate need of renovation. We are trying to build up membership and to provide a place where all military and their families feel welcomed as Commander Gunn has made us all feel very welcomed. In addition, my son-in-law Tom Lancaster introduced me to this Legion as he is currently a member.
A Go-Fund Me page has been set up to help fund this renovation.