The American Legion Allen O. Delke Post 16 of Slatington presented longevity awards on Monday. The recipients had all been members for at least 50 years. Commander George Burke was master of ceremonies.

Chaplain Thomas Beam in the invocation asked God to hasten the promise of peace.Jr. Vice Commander Robert Churetta removed the cover from the empty MIA-POW chair as a reminder that many military people are still missing, and efforts should continue to bring them home.Fourteenth District Commander Michael Bodnar said it was a hard time getting to 50 years of service, and by 60 years you "just hold in there."There was one member, Myron Baer, who had 70 years of service, but passed away in January. The family will receive his award.Bodnar said Dan Dellinger, national American Legion commander, was in the news because he was urging the firing of the head of the Veterans' Hospitals for poor oversight and failed leadership for allowing veterans to wait for service, and in some cases, die while waiting."I commend you people for your service," Bodnar said to the gathering.Adjutant Mark Queen announced the award recipients beginning with Pauline Minnich, who had 50 years of service, as did Robert Koch. Ted Van Norman had 50 years but was unable to attend.Those with 60 years were Robert Eroh and Rhynier Minnich. Minnich was a past commander and talked his cousin Queen into joining.Not attending 60-year honorees were Paul Horner, Mark Kistler, Wade Roth and Wallace Smith.Many of those who did not attend live too far away.