Courtesy photo August Mattson Incoming Commander Barry Holm, left, presents Ken Pickard with his 50 Year Membership Award certificate.

GLADSTONE — Ken Pickard of the Gladstone August Mattson Post 71 of the American Legion was recently honored for 50 years of continuous membership. An honorary certificate was presented to Pickard, who is a Vietnam Era Veteran who served in the Army’s 1st Calvery and achieved the rank of Private First Class and was awarded the Airborn Parachute and Marksmanship Badge. He was assigned to the Army M60A1 Tank Division in Fort Hood, Texas.

Reaching this milestone is a very special event. It is also a honor for the post, because it is a testimony to his loyalty to the The American Legion over the years. He is a valued member of Post 71, and his continued contribution is vital for the Legion to continue to be successful in helping fellow Legionnaires and veterans.