Just one year after it was chartered, the Ironton AMVETS Post 5293 received a visit from the organization's national commander Tuesday as part of his trip through the Buckeye state.

Vietnam veteran and current National Commander S. John Sisler, along with several current and past AMVETS representatives, stopped in Ironton to meet with local veterans and their families. He continued his tour of the state with stops in Portsmouth, Cincinnati, Dayton and more.

"We are trying to get out and see all the people in the posts," Sisler said. "We want to show them that we care and that we are not just about taking their money up in Columbus."

The American Veterans organization is open to anyone who is currently in or has served in the U.S. Armed Forces since World War II. For nearly 60 years, the volunteer-led organization has provided legal assistance, fought for legislation, provided community services and other activities supporting veterans.

Although only a few members were there to meet the national commander, Ironton Post Commander David Malone said it was truly an honor since this was the first time they had the opportunity to meet Sisler.

Betty Malone said it is a compliment to what the post has been able to accomplish since the group was chartered in Oct. 2002 and had the first meeting in February.

"I think we are on the right track," she said. "We are showing them that we are small but we are willing to work."

Currently meeting at the VFW lodge, the AMVETS is looking for a place to meet permanently and host fundraisers. They are also hoping to boost the membership from 19 to 50 veterans.

Anyone who would like to join AMVETS or work with the organization in finding a permanent meeting location can contact Malone at 643-1811 or attend a regular meeting at 1 p.m. the last Wednesday of each month at the VFW.

The dozen or so AMVETS members in attendance also talked with Dave Barker, AMVETS state service officer assigned to the Chillicothe Veterans Hospital, about upcoming events.

Barker outlined the "I'm Proud to be an American because . . ." poster and essay contest that the local post will try to get area elementary schools to participate in. The details are still being finalized but the students would have a chance to win scholarships.

"Our programs for the young people are one of the greatest programs in America," Barker said.

Also, he said that the post needs to continue to have fundraiser events where the veterans sell white clover because this money goes to help veterans who are hospitalized.

"What greater goal could you have," he asked.

Afterwards, Malone presented Barker with a plaque honoring all his work in helping them start the post.

Barker said he was humbled by the honor and had a special place on his wall for the recognition.