Tom Smith is the new Commander of Post 44 for the 2025-2026 year. It’s the 2^nd time Tom has served as Commander.

The career Army veteran who served 23 years in the Army Finance Corps has also served our post as 1^st Vice Commander, Finance Officer, Historian and as a member of the Color Guard.

Tom has been a Legionnaire for over 15 years, and is a past Commander of Post 271 in San Juan Capistrano, CA.

Upon taking office, Tom announced a number of initiatives he believes will engage more current members and increase new membership.

These initiatives include:

• Membership Growth: Recruit 10 new members and retain approximately 90% of current membership.
• Community Engagement: Host at least four public-facing events (e.g., Memorial Day, Veterans Day, scholarship fundraiser) and partner with three local organizations or schools.
• Veteran Support: Provide direct support (housing, mental health, VA claims assistance) to 25 veterans and expand or launch a mentoring program for transitioning service members.
• Youth and Education: Sponsor two students for Boys/Girls State, award a minimum of $2,000 in scholarships, and assist the local Boy Scout troop with two charitable events.
• Post Operations & Leadership: Launch a weekly email update with communication goals, develop a leadership succession plan, recommend officer training, and complete post renovations within budget.
• Recognition & Morale: Introduce a quarterly Volunteer Spotlight program and organize two post-wide member appreciation events.

Commander Smith said, “Strong leadership, clear communication, and a deep respect for military service are crucial. Operational skills — such as budgeting, planning, and accountability — are equally important to keep the Post running smoothly.  Having served in Army Finance and Civilian Banking, I bring a data driven approach to management and resource allocation.”

Asked if he has any tips or strategies for interacting with other Post 44 team members, staff, or the community, the new Commander said, “Yes — listen first, lead second.  I’ve found that showing respect for others’ ideas and service experience creates a foundation of trust. I also prioritize follow-through: if someone brings a concern or suggestion, I make sure they see it addressed. Transparency and consistent communication go a long way in building unity.”

Post 44 welcomes new Commander Tom Smith and looks forward to an active year under his guidance.

By Thomas Smith, Post 44 Commander 

Braving the summer heat, American Legion Post 44 — proudly known as the “Best Damn Post in the West” — hosted a heartfelt community gathering on Flag Day, June 14, to honor members who have passed.

Flag Day, observed annually on June 14, commemorates the adoption of the first U.S. flag resolution.  Across the country, American Legion posts mark the day by retiring worn and unserviceable American flags.  At Post 44, this tradition was upheld with dignity and reverence through a solemn flag retirement ceremony.

“We must always honor and respect the United States flag,” said Thomas Smith, Commander of Post 44.  “It’s not just about celebrating the good our nation has achieved but also acknowledging the difficult parts of our history.  It’s still our flag — it’s our history.  Retiring it with honor is a tribute to those who came before us.”

Commander Smith also invited community members to bring any old, worn-out flags to Post 44 for proper and honorable disposal, ensuring this tradition continues with respect.

A special thank-you goes out to our Trustees, who delivered one of the best “flag fires” in Post 44’s history — outstanding work, gentlemen!

The Post 44 Color Guard led the pageantry, guiding attendees through the moving ceremony and offering a powerful tribute to the flag and the legacy it symbolizes.

Workers this week installed large outside windows in the new Windows Lounge, the former pool and card room, and new high-top tables and 24 stools were put in place Friday. During mild weather, the windows open to the street.

The new space will accommodate 40 or more members and guests, which is vital during our busy winter visitor season and for special events in the bar and lounge.

Trustees Eddie Bogonovich, Ron Ihsen and Gene Houk were joined by other volunteers Friday to assemble stools and arrange the new tables.

The next phase is to install a new door connecting the Windows Lounge to the outdoor patio which is also being updated. A second patio will extend from the existing patio west to the parking lot.

Inside the lounge, more seating will be added via high-top tables and stools where the booths were located on the north wall. The mirrors will be replaced with a large window identical to those in the Window Lounge, providing additional light and visibility between the lounge and the remodeled outdoor patio.

Thomas P Smith, Post 44 Historian

Scottsdale, Arizona — On April 24, 2025, Post 44 held elections to select officers for the 2025–2026 term.  A total of 63 members in good standing participated in the voting process, conducted in full compliance with the organization’s bylaws to ensure fairness and transparency.  The newly elected officers were officially installed during a general meeting ceremony on May 22, 2025, where they took the oath of office and now begin their respective duties.

2025 / 2026 Leadership Team

• Commander: Thomas Smith
• First Vice Commander: Tom Ghrist
• Second Vice Commander: Mike Moore
• Finance Officer: Thomas Hughes
• Chaplain: Billy Martin
• Historian: Randy Thomas
• Sergeant-at-Arms: Billy Estes
• Executive Committee Members: Linda Esposito, Gary Johnson, Richard Grant, Craig Sternitzke
• Trustees: Ron Ihsen, Gene Houk, Ed Bogonovich
• Adjutant: Herb Durbin
• Service Officer: Tom Ghrist
• Judge Advocate: Rodger Wells

About American Legion Post 44

American Legion Post 44 in Scottsdale, Arizona, was founded on May 13, 1935. Established by a group of World War I veterans in the small, rural community of Scottsdale.  It was the first corporate organization in the area at that time.

In 1949, the post was renamed Sipe-Peterson Post 44 to honor Travis Sipe and Clayton Peterson, two local men who lost their lives during World War II. The name change reflected the community’s commitment to remembering and honoring its fallen heroes.

Today, Post 44 remains an active and vital part of the Scottsdale community, serving veterans and their families, and hosting a variety of events and activities.  It continues to uphold its mission of service, camaraderie, and community involvement.  Post 44 is Scottsdale’s oldest continuously active civic organization and serves approximately 1,000 members, including Legionnaires, Auxiliary, and Sons of the Legion.  For more information about Post 44’s activities and leadership, visit their official website at azpost44.org.​

American Legion Post 44 is located on the southeast corner of 2nd Street and N Bishops Lane in Old Town Scottsdale.  We are all so fortunate to be members of such an awesome Post.  Why?  It’s the “Best Damn Post in the West!”         

By Thomas Smith, Post 44 Historian

This Mother’s Day, American Legion Post 44 transformed into a haven of warmth, gratitude, and celebration as families gathered for a delightful brunch buffet honoring the women who mean the most in our lives. Post 44 opened our Patriot Room doors with welcoming smiles, delicious aromas, stunning decorations and a heartfelt tribute to mothers, grandmothers, and maternal figures of all kinds.

From the moment guests arrived, they were met with roses and chocolate cookies.  It was immediately clear this was no ordinary Sunday morning. The spacious hall was adorned with colorful centerpieces and soft pastel décor, creating a cheerful, elegant atmosphere.

The buffet that was put together by our wonderful food service partner… “The Secret Kitchen” drew everyone’s attention.  Guests were treated to a spread that was as generous as it was delicious. Heaping platters of scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, ham, hash browns, and buttery biscuits with gravy filled the air with mouthwatering scents.  For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert table offered wonderful pastries.  A fresh fruit display added a refreshing, upscale touch.

By the end of the brunch, it was clear that this event was more than just a meal—it was a memory in the making.  Our volunteer wait staff did a fantastic job.  Many guests decided to lingere long after their plates were cleared, enjoying mimosas and wonderful music from our live band. 

As attendees departed with full hearts and satisfied appetites, there was a shared sentiment: this Mother’s Day at American Legion Post 44 had been truly magnificent—a perfect blend of delicious food, meaningful connections, great music and well-deserved celebration. Here’s to honoring mothers, not just on this special day, but every day of the year.

Grounded No More, a local non-profit charity providing veterans
with exciting rides aboard vintage military aircraft was the
recipient of two sizeable donations from Post 44.
On Saturday, Billy Estes, the Charity Committee Chairman along
with longtime member Dean Hamilton, presented a check to Tony
Anger, President of Grounded No More for $5000. Earlier, Christie
Slegers, President of the Post 44 Auxiliary presented Anger with a
check in the amount of $3000.

Post 44 Charities made another large donation Tuesday.
Billy Estes and Dean Hamilton are shown here presenting a $5000 check to Rachel Masch-Perez of MANA House.

Our Meet and Greet event with the Auxiliary National President, Trish Ward and fellowship with State officers and Unit 44 family.

Our monthly Poppy making session.
The 1st Thursday of the month at 11 A.M. in the Patriot Hall.
Volunteers welcome.
Contact:
Chris Hatounian
Poppy program chairman.
480-204-9243

By Thomas Smith, Post 44 Historian

On a lively March Saturday (March 29th), the American Legion Post 44 kicked off our weekly celebration of community featuring a fun, familiar band that brought the house down with a mix of classic Elvis hits, upbeat tunes, and lively rhythms.

The evening started with a surprise visit from the famous Army veteran of the 1950’s.  This veteran has gone by several nicknames like “The Hillbilly Cat”, “The Memphis Flash”, “John Stamatakis” and most notably “The King of Rock and Roll.”  Of course, that veteran is the famous Elvis Presley.  The grateful Post 44 crew in attendance couldn’t seem to get enough.   

After Elvis left the house, the venue transitioned into classic hits, more cutting the rug, and the unmistakable sound of good times rolling.  For those lucky enough to have joined, it was an entire evening very few will soon forget.

The Heart of the Community

The American Legion has long been a place where veterans and their families come together to celebrate their service, honor traditions, and foster a sense of camaraderie.  This last Saturday evening, the walls echoed with laughter, friendly chatter, and of course, music that appealed to everyone in the room.

Several Saturdays every year, the Legion invites local bands to perform, providing an excellent opportunity for people to relax, unwind, and experience live music in a warm and welcoming environment. This week’s band was no exception, bringing a mix of Elvis tunes, classic rock, R&B, and some modern hits that had everyone on the dance floor.

A Band That Knows How to Keep the Party Going

From the moment the band hit the stage, it was clear that they were a group of musicians who knew how to work a crowd. The lead vocalist (John) set the tone with an amazing impression of Elvis that had everyone’s attention.

As the night progressed, the setlist grew more dynamic, pulling from a broad array of genres. There were moments when the crowd sang along to classic songs they knew and loved, and others moments that packed the dance floor with people showing off their best moves to energetic tunes. For those who just wanted to sit back and enjoy the show, the atmosphere was perfect—a perfect balance of upbeat energy and laid-back fun.

The band also took a moment to acknowledge the American Legion 7PM salute followed by a wonderful rendition of Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless America” … giving a heartfelt thank you to all who have served. It was a reminder of the importance of supporting veteran organizations that provide a sense of community and honor the sacrifices made by so many.

Viva Lost Wages will be back at Post 44 on 24 May at 6PM. 

More Than Just Music

While the live band provided the highlight of the evening, there was much more to enjoy. The American Legion’s kitchen and bar staff were on hand, offering delicious food and drinks to keep everyone refreshed. Whether it was a burger, a refreshing drink, or a tasty snack, the atmosphere was one of pure enjoyment. The bar was bustling with conversations, and the camaraderie was as contagious as the music itself.

A Perfect Way to Spend a Saturday Evening

Whether you were a long-time member of the American Legion or someone just stopping by for the first time, the Saturday evening event was an experience that exemplified the best of local culture and entertainment. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best nights are the ones spent in the company of good friends, enjoying music, laughter, and the joy of being part of something bigger than yourself.

So, the next time you’re looking for something fun to do on a Saturday night, head to Post 44. With great music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a community that feels like family, it’s the perfect way to spend an evening out.

American Legion Post 44 is located on the southeast corner of 2nd Street and N Bishops Lane in Old Town Scottsdale.  We are all so fortunate to be members of such an awesome Post.  Why?  It’s the “Best Damn Post in the West!”