SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION
SQUADRON 90
Projects and Programs
Marking Patriotic Observances
The SAL is privileged to participate alongside the veterans at a number of patriotic observances throughout the year in a variety of capacities. From purchasing and distributing flags as we follow the color guard in the Independence Day Parade to helping the the annual Memorial Day services in Ashland and the surrounding area, the SAL can be found at almost every such event performed by the Chequamegon Veterans.
As a member of the American Legion Family, the SAL is already ready to come to the aid of the American Legion whenever we are needed. Even those who have not served are honored to be able to participate in these activities and to perform our role in supporting such an important organization in the community.
Joining and Supporting American Legion Activities
Veteran Gravestone Maintenance
One of the most important stand-alone events performed by the SAL is our annual Cemetery Cleanup. This event takes place in the fall at a local cemetery, with members cutting back encroaching sod, scrubbing off mold, and generally attempting to clean and preserve those memorials to our departed heroes and ensure that their memories are not literally swallowed by time.
An annual tradition for several years now, the SAL has hosted a Chili Feed for veterans taking place at the Chequamegon Veteran’s Center. This event, always completely free to any veteran who attends, was originally formed as a get-together event and a way for the SAL to give back to our veterans with a meal and some comradery.
Annual Veteran’s Chili Feed
An annual special event, the Member’s Retreat is a day spent in the beautiful northwoods of Wisconsin where members can relax and mingle in an informal setting. Of particular note is the annual historical theme, which includes a variety of activities intended to offer an immersive living history experience to bring us a better understanding of what our own veteran ancestors experienced.
SAL Member’s Retreat
The largest project yet undertaken by Squadron 90, the restoration of the Memorial Park Howitzer was a massive undertaking that was completed in 2023. Having observed that “The Cannon”, as it was commonly known locally, at Ashland’s Memorial Park was in a state of serious disrepair, the SAL commenced a project to raise money and restore the World War One era piece. This involved finding a wheelwright to make new wooden wheels to mate to the original metal hardware, as well as getting it repainted and replaced as a centerpiece of the park.