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!”