Empowering Veterans and Communities
Jonestown American Legion Post 883 focuses on service to veterans, service members, and the communities we cherish. Join us in making a difference.
SGT. Marlin Leroy Gahres
Born 20 December 1916 to Elias Wellington Gahres and Eva Cedilia (Shadle) Gahres in Jonestown, PA. Marlin was one of eight siblings, six younger brothers (all which served in the United States Military) and one older sister. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in June 1940 and was assigned to the 7th Signal Company, 4th Signal Battalion, 4th Infantry Division.
Marlin served in World War II where he perished on 09 June 1942. He was one of 54 passengers on the American Steam Merchant Ship "U.S.A.T. Merrimack" which departed from New Orleans and was in route to Cristobal, Panama. The ship was attacked and was hit by one stern torpedo from German Submarine U-107 about 65 miles southeast of Cozumel Island, south of the Yucatan Channel.
Marlin received the following Commendations and Awards: ★ Purple Heart ★ World War II Victory Medal ★ American Campaign Medal ★ Army Presidential Unit Citation ★ Army Good Conduct Medal
Marlin shares a cenotaph at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery with his brother, Paul, who also lost his life in service to his country with the U.S. Navy on 13 December 1943, just 18 months after Marlin.
883 Cash Club
Get your tickets for the 883 Cash Club. Just $10 a ticket. You do not need to be present to win. All winners will be contacted to claim prizes.
To purchase tickets, contact a member or stop by the canteen and speak with a bartender.
The American Legion is not just a bar… it’s a Veterans Service Organization.
Sometimes we all need a reminder of what it’s really all about — serving veterans, supporting our community, honoring those who sacrificed, and continuing a mission bigger than ourselves.
Thank you to everyone who supports our veterans and stands with the American Legion family.
Giving back
The Legion held a St. Patrick's Day celebration with our in-house DJ, who is a volunteer with the Post. He, along with volunteers from several branches of the Post, held events throughout the evening to raise money through the generosity of our members.
That same weekend, a shopping trip was made and over 200 comfort and shower necessities were purchased and donated to the VA Medical Center to support homeless veterans. We would like to thank everyone who comes out to all our events. Without your support we could not do what we do.
In Memoriam
2026 has not been good as we have lost some dear friends of Post 883.
Please keep them and all their family, friends and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.
Annelie U. "Ann" Menzel
We are greatly saddened by the news of Annelie's passing. She worked at the Jonestown Legion for many years. Annelie was one of a kind, she was sassy, funny, kind, hard working and always ready to have fun and laugh. She will be greatly missed by those who knew her. Prayers to Brian and the rest of her family during this very difficult time. May you RIP Annelie! ❤️ Please have a Coors Light in her honor!
Keith "Hotdog" McQuate
Born in Lebanon on September 27, 1961, he was the son of the late Kenneth McQuate and Hazel (Harmon) Krall. He worked as a machinist in metal fabrication. He was a member of Sons of the American Legion, Jonestown and the AACA. He enjoyed fishing, working on cars. The legion family lost another friend. We send sympathy to his family and friends during this difficult time.
John Nemec
We are sadden to share the news that John Nemec passed away March 11th. He and Mary were long time members of the Jonestown American Legion and John served on the board for several years. He was a good guy, served his county, and loved his wife dearly. The legion family will greatly miss John and sends prayers to Mary and their family during this most difficult time.
Red Friday is a symbolic gesture where civilians and military supporters wear red clothing—such as shirts, ties, or ribbons—every Friday to honor and remember service members deployed abroad. The acronym R.E.D. stands for "Remember Everyone Deployed", emphasizing the importance of keeping troops in mind and showing solidarity with their sacrifices and service. The red color itself represents the courage and sacrifice of those serving in the military
GET THE GEAR!
Click the link below to go to our Post 883 store! All items locally made and proceeds of each sale go to our Post.
Just a few samples of the many different options available. Click the link above to see all the styles, colors and designs.
Samples can also be found hanging in the canteen. Ask a bartender for more information on what is available.
Our Commitment to Service
Together We Serve
Serving Those Who Served
At the Jonestown American Legion Post 883, we prioritize service to veterans and active military members.
We foster community connections.
Join us in our mission to support and uplift.
