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Members of American Legion Post 24 in Greenville gathered for their regular monthly meeting on June 5, welcoming a special guest who described a recent leadership experience sponsored by the post. 

Chris Thigpen from Greenville High School, one of several Alabama students selected to attend Boys and Girls State, shared his experience with the group. 

“I just want to thank you all for giving me this trip,” Thigpen said. “It was a different experience, and I think it helped me grow.”

The program offers a hands-on introduction to government and citizenship, where students operate mock city, county and state governments. Thigpen described the in-depth learning and camaraderie he experienced during the program.

“I thought that I knew a lot about the government, but I quickly realized how much I didn’t know,” Thigpen said. “We were divided into 10 cities and in my city we became somewhat of a brotherhood. We supported each other… in our government, I don’t think we got any bills passed.”

In other business, veterans discussed two cemetery plots recently donated to the Legion. The plots will be reserved for families of veterans in need, with Post Commander Lee Tanner pledging support. 

“We will just let all of the funeral homes know that we do have new plots and if they have a veteran that passes away to let us know and we’ll take care of it,” Tanner said.

Tanner also emphasized the importance of raising funds — not only to maintain the Post’s aging facility but to enhance its support for veterans and the broader community. 

“We have got to raise money,” Tanner said. “I want people to see this post. Instead of us giving out the awards for the ROTC thing, I want us to give a scholarship. I want us to do more things in the community. I want them to know we’re here and I want the veterans to know that we’re here.”

At the conclusion of the meeting, the group held elections for post leadership. Members unanimously supported Tanner to continue serving as Commander for a second year, with Jimmy Lawson stepping into the role of Vice-Commander. Tanner thanked the group for their support and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the Post’s role in the community.

Tanner succeeded former commander Liza Berrey in 2024, following her decision to step down due to health concerns.

The post, which meets the first Thursday of every month, invites all veterans from any branch of the U.S. military to attend.