The American Legion Post 58 Color Guard received a commendation from Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey.

The Color Guard’s recent achievements in national and state color guard competitions were recognized. The commendation states, “On behalf of the citizens of Arizona, Congratulations and Best Wishes for continued success.”

American Legion Post 58’s newly formed Color Guard competed at the 100-Year anniversary of the American Legion National Convention in August at the Minneapolis (Minn.) Convention Center.

They represented Arizona as the 2018 American Legion’s Department of Arizona State Champions. This was Arizona’s first representation at the competition

Color Guard members who competed are Kevin Wood, captain; member and American flag bearer, Bob Putnam; member and American Legion Post 58 flag bearer; Phil Yin, director, member and lead rifleman; and Tait Elkie, member and trail rifleman. They are all active members of the post, holding or having recently held positions of executive leadership.

The competitors included Color Guards from 23 posts across the United States who competed in four different judged categories, some of them competing in this contest for more than 10 years.

The Fountain Hills post was awarded first place in the national Color Guard Military Class contest by the judging committee.

The trophy and banner were presented to the team by the American Legion’s National Commander Denise Rohan during the Awards ceremony.

She commented, “You are the role models, you are the leaders of the parades, you are the heroes…and all of those children who are watching, they understand and get that warm feeling in their heart and know why they care about America so much. You are fine examples.”

Rohan continued, “I’m so proud to watch each and every one of you as you performed. And I hope you take that same sense of pride back home with you.”

The team also met with the American Legion’s Department of Arizona Commander Steve Aguirre, who commended their accomplishments.

Upon their return from the national convention, the Color Guard members presented the trophy and banner to the Post 58’s Commander John Weedo at a special ceremony. Weedo thanked the Color Guard on behalf of the entire post.

Additional comments were made from the Director of the Color Guard Phil Yin, who said, “This award reflects the dedication, motivation and hard work of the Color Guard team members.”

Information on membership, officers, calendar, programs, benefits, Legion Riders and Auxiliary can be found at the Post website, azalpost58.org.