Below is a letter from 5th District Commander James Watson to the command leadership of the Georgia Department of American Legion. Congrats to our Chaplain, Chuck Polk, on his awards program and the accolades received.
American Legion, Department of Georgia Leadership Team,
I had the distinct honor of joining Chuck Polk from American Legion Post 304 at the Georgia Tech ROTC Unit Awards Ceremony. It was a privilege to assist in recognizing and presenting awards to such outstanding cadets—young Americans who have chosen to dedicate themselves to the defense of our great nation. My father used to say, “Never lick a gifted horse in the mouth,” and today was certainly one of those moments I’m truly grateful for.
While waiting for the ceremony to begin, I was surprised and humbled to see someone I’ve long admired since my earliest days as a young Marine—Major General Larry Taylor, USMC (Ret.). He was there to present a Marine Corps officer’s sword to a midshipman preparing to be commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps.
In true Marine Corps fashion, we took the opportunity to reconnect and reflect. Major General Taylor had also been the guest speaker at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Powder Springs Veterans Monument—a project especially close to my heart, as I had the honor of serving as the Director and Chairman of the monument committee for the City of Powder Springs in connection with the American legion Post 294. Seeing him again today made the moment all the more meaningful.
Once again, the American Legion opened a door I’m thankful I walked through. I’m sincerely grateful to Chuck Polk for inviting me to share the stage and help present those awards. Had I passed on the opportunity, I would’ve missed reconnecting with a Marine I’ve long respected—a memory I’ll always cherish.
As a side note: Major General Taylor is a proud member of the American Legion, belonging to Post 1 in Shanghai, China. It’s a powerful reminder of the incredible reach of our Legion family has —spanning not just across the nation, but around the world.
For God, Country, and Service,
Respectfully,
James M Watson
American Legion
Dept of Georgia
5th District Commander
Semper Fidlis
