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By Tom Mastaglio, Ph.D.

SMITHFIELD

American Legion Post 49 of Smithfield recently accepted the membership application for Julia “Jules” Sullivan of Surry. Sullivan was sworn in by Vice Commander Jerry Starling at the monthly meeting on March 3.

Sullivan has long wanted to join the Legion and contribute to its mission, but was not eligible due to when she served in the armed forces. That changed when the LEGION Act was signed into law by the President on July 30, 2019. Membership in the Legion is subject to Congressional legislation. The LEGION Act expanded membership eligibility to anyone who has served in one of the Armed Services since Dec. 7, 1941.

Sullivan is looking forward to getting involved in Legion Post 49 community programs and internal activities. She served in the Army from 1978 to 1981 including active duty service and in the Army Reserves. During her time in the Army she worked in logistics and supply.

Sullivan and her husband have eight children and 19 grandchildren. She is a former chef, and the Post is looking forward to her helping it improve the quality of meals at meetings and other functions.

Any veteran interested in membership in Post 49 should contact Matt Streeter at 705-1902 or email mstreeter77@gmail.com.