Veterans Strengthening America
Post History and Highlights
Our History
In the late 1970s, a group of Veterans in Spring Hill, Florida, saw that the growing community needed its own American Legion Post. With support from local Veterans, the group petitioned the American Legion. In [1980], the Legion granted a charter for American Legion Post 186, Department of Florida. The Post opened with 57 members on County Line Road. Frank Carpenter served as its first Commander.
As more Veterans, especially from WWII and Korea, retired to Florida, the Post grew fast. By 1993, the membership had outgrown the original space. The Post moved to a larger facility on Route 19 (Commercial Way). Spring Hill kept growing, and so did the membership. In 2001, the Post moved to its current home on Route 50 (Cortez Blvd.).
Charles E. Murray did more than anyone to bring about that move. Charlie served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and reached the rank of Staff Sergeant. He joined Post 186 in its early years, when the Post had only a handful of members. He went on to hold nearly every elected office, including Chaplain, and served three consecutive terms as Commander from 1995 to 1998. He was the primary advocate for buying and renovating the building the Post calls home today. Members remember him as soft-spoken and firm on protocol.
Charlie died on September 13, 2010, at age 88. On January 1, 2011, the Post revised its charter to add his name. The Post has carried it ever since.
Today, Post 186 has grown from its original 57 members to more than 1,000. It stands as a cornerstone of the Hernando County community. The Post is known for its charitable giving, including support for Veterans, youth programs, and individuals in need.
Charles E. Murray American Legion Post 186 continues to serve Veterans and the community and to make a positive impact in Hernando County and beyond.
Highlights and Activities
Post 186 is dedicated to honoring Veterans and supporting the community through a variety of meaningful programs and events:
- Memory Stone Garden: Outside the Post, a Memory Stone Garden serves as a tribute to those who have served, providing a serene space for reflection.
- Youth Programs: Each year, the Post sponsors young men and women to attend Boys State and Girls State in Tallahassee, along with other Children and Youth programs.
- Veteran Recognition: Annual events honor Vietnam Veterans on Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day and commemorate POW/MIA service members.
- Four Chaplains Service: Post 186 participates in ceremonies honoring the Four Chaplains Foundation at various places of worship.
- Wreaths Across America: The Post is actively involved in this national effort, with Riders providing escorts for departed Veterans to the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL.
- Post Everlasting Ceremony: Each year, the Post holds a solemn ceremony to honor members who have passed away.
- Memorial Day Ceremony: The Auxiliary maintains Veterans’ graves at Aripeka Cemetery and holds a Memorial Day ceremony.
- Adopted Facilities: The Auxiliary has adopted two assisted living facilities, establishing Walls of Honor for resident Veterans.
- Holiday Giving: At Christmas, the Auxiliary sets up an Angel Tree for disadvantaged Veterans’ families, while Riders have distributed food baskets during Thanksgiving.
- Community and Social Events: The lounge and canteen are vibrant gathering spots, offering weekly activities such as Friday Fish Fry, Saturday night live bands, and televised Sunday football games.
Through these initiatives, Post 186 exemplifies the American Legion’s mission to honor Veterans, support the community, and uphold traditions of service and camaraderie.