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The Legacy, Turnaround, and Growth of American Legion Waters-Hackenberg Post #220

The rich history of the American Legion Waters-Hackenberg Post #220 in Lawton began with its very first preliminary meeting, held at the town hall on November 8, 1919. Originally known simply as the "Waters Post #220," it was named in honor of a local hero who died in France while serving with the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I. Seeking a permanent home for local veterans and community activities, the post committee voted on April 29, 1920, to purchase the town's Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) building—a historic structure that once stood right where the current firehall parking lot is located.

On May 15, 1946, the organization expanded its tribute by renaming itself the "Waters-Hackenberg Post #220" to further honor the service and sacrifice of its local veterans.

The Post’s next major chapter began in 1968, when the New York Central Railroad Company granted a lease to Post 220 for the historic Lawton depot. While the Lawton Lions Club also shared and utilized the hall, the lease itself was held entirely in the American Legion's name. After a dedicated group of members went down to clean up the space, the Post officially relocated to the historic depot on September 5, 1969. Originally constructed in 1849, this old stone railroad depot remains a significant local landmark, recognized as the architectural twin to the depot in Standish, Michigan.

From Near-Closure to a Thriving Legion Family

While Post #220 has stood as a pillar of the community for over a century, its recent history is a powerful story of revitalization. Just five years ago, the Post was facing a critical decline in membership, and discussions were quietly taking place about permanently closing the doors. Instead, the community rallied, embarking on an incredible turnaround that has tripled the size of the overall Legion family.

Today, the Post boasts a strong foundation of approximately 26 Legion members, but the true catalyst for growth has been the explosive revival of its auxiliary branches:

• The Auxiliary Charter: Though the exact fate of the original Auxiliary charter remains a mystery—with local lore suggesting it collapsed due to a decline in membership—the community’s spirit never wavered. Thanks to the perseverance of Legion member Lyle Paterala-Streeter and the guidance of 4th District Auxiliary President Kathie Hartman, a brand-new Auxiliary Charter was officially established on October 3, 2025. Its new officers were proudly sworn in by Michigan State Auxiliary President Dawn Gramza during a celebration on October 20, 2025. Hitting the ground running with 25 passionate members, their first order of business was hosting a lively community Costume Contest in Reid’s Park for Halloween.

• The Sons of the American Legion (SAL): Building on that momentum, the Post expanded once again the following spring. Through the due diligence of Lyle Paterala-Streeter and the determination of fellow Legion member John Thayer, the Sons of the Legion of Post 220 was officially established on May 18, 2026. Guided by 4th District SAL Commander Mark Shingleton, the charter was signed and celebrated with cake after the officers were sworn in by Zack Pendell, the 5th Zone Commander in the UP. Bringing over 20 new members into the fold, the SAL’s immediate first order of business was to proudly represent Post 220 by marching in the 2026 Memorial Day Parade.

From the brink of closing its doors to boasting a vibrant, growing multi-generational family, Waters-Hackenberg Post #220 continues to honor its past while actively building its future. Looking ahead, the Post hopes to keep the momentum going by adding the Legion Riders to their thriving family next.