Coulter Post 1941 Commemorates 75th Anniversary

Memorial Day, May 27, 2019 marks the 75th anniversary of the Robert E. Coulter Jr. American Legion Post 1941, of LaGrange.

The day begins at 8:30am at Lyons Township High School, 100 S. Brainard Ave., LaGrange, reading the names of LaGrange residents that gave their life for our country, a 21-gun salute, and the playing of Taps at the flagpole. Following the LT service, the Post 1941 Honor Guard will travel to several local cemeteries and churches for similar programs.

The anniversary ceremony will be held at the American Legion Post headquarters, 900 S. LaGrange Rd., at approximately noon. At this time, the heroic story of namesake Robert E. Coulter Jr. will be recounted. There will be a 21-gun salute, and Taps played in honor of all fallen soldiers. A dedication plaque will be unveiled, and nearly one dozen Coulter descendants and relatives are scheduled to attend.

Post Commander Jason Coclanes said, “What better way to celebrate Memorial Day than to remember a hero and rededicate our headquarters to his memory. Service and sacrifice are at the forefront of what we do as American Legion members and Robert Coulter epitomizes these traits.”

Robert E. Coulter Jr., was a graduate of Lyons Township High School, and a Purdue University alumnus. He joined the US Army Air Corp in 1939. Major Coulter flew many successful missions early in the Allied offensive over Europe, bombing enemy submarine and U-boat bases. Coulter and his B17 Flying Fortress crew were killed in action over North Africa early in 1943. In recognition of his outstanding service to his country, and in his honor, the LaGrange American Legion Post was dedicated.

All ceremonies are open to the public and residents from local communities are encouraged to attend these services.

The day's programs are sponsored by the Robert E. Coulter, Jr., Post 1941, LaGrange, Il. For further information call 708-354-3300.