Coacher-Goestch American Legion Post 18 of Mitchell celebrated its 100th anniversary Thursday in conjunction with its national organization.
Post 18 was chartered on July 7th, 1919 and, according to Jim Huls of the Legion’s National Executive Committee, was named in memory of William Harvey Coacher who died of wounds received in action in France during World War One.
“Lieutenant William Harvey Coacher served with Company F at the Mexican border and later attended officer training school at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas where he was commissioned Second Lieutenant,” said Huls. “He was one of the first casualties from Davison County.”
In 1943 a replacement charter added the name of Seaman First Class Herman Goetsch. “Born December 11th, 1919 at his home farm in Davison County,” Huls said. “He was killed in action December 7th, 1941 at Pearl Harbor.”
Post 18 Adjutant Hugh Holmes presented KORN News Radio, Q-1073 and KORN Country 92.1 plus the Mitchell Daily Republic, with an American Legion 100th Anniversary commemorative coin in recognition of their service to veterans by telling their stories and publicizing related events.