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Election Rivals, Community Officials Gather to Honor Bridgeville American Legion

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State Sen. Pam Iovino presents a proclamation congratulating the Bridgeville American Legion Post 54 on its 100th anniversary.
State Sen. Pam Iovino presents a proclamation congratulating the Bridgeville American Legion Post 54 on its 100th anniversary.

While many Americans were busy last week hating each other and spreading disease, a handful of state and local officials, including State Sen. Pam Iovino and the challenger who just beat her—Devlin Robinson—put on their masks and got together to honor the 100th anniversary of the Bridgeville American Legion.

Legion Post #54 was chartered on Nov. 29, 1920—two years after the end of World War I.

At a brief ceremony in the legion’s event space, Iovino and Robinson were joined by State Rep. Jason Ortitay, Bridgeville Mayor Betty Copeland, former mayor Pat DeBlasio Jr., and the post’s officers.

  • State Senator-elect—and American Legion member—Devlin Robinson poses with Bridgeville Mayor Betty Copeland.
    State Senator-elect—and American Legion member—Devlin Robinson poses with Bridgeville Mayor Betty Copeland.
  • State Rep. Jason Ortitay shakes hands with an officer of American Legion Post 54
    State Rep. Jason Ortitay shakes hands with an officer of American Legion Post 54
  • A 100th anniversary banner hangs at Bridgeville American Legion Post 54
    A 100th anniversary banner hangs at Bridgeville American Legion Post 54

In addition to providing a spot for veterans to socialize and unwind, American Legion Post 54 and its members are involved in various community initiatives, including their key role in organizing Bridgeville’s annual Memorial Day Parade.

Across America, veterans tend to be more active in the community than other citizens, Iovino said during the event, and the same is true in Bridgeville.

“[Post 54] has become a leader in the community and a model that is worthy of emulation,” she said. “Over the years, those in leadership positions, as well as its members, have contributed in a tremendous way to its growth and development.”

Although Devlin Robinson won’t be sworn into the state senate until next year, he did attend the event in a different official capacity—the Bridgeville resident and former Marine is also member of Post 54.

Overall, the Bridgeville legion’s membership includes 140 veterans and 240 social members. They all have different backgrounds and opinions, but at the legion, there is a common bond, said post commander Bob Milliken.

“We’re all different,” he said, “but when you wear the uniform, you’re all the same. We love the country and the community. I’m proud of my legion and its members.”

Membership at Bridgeville American Legion Post 54 is $35. For more information on joining, call Bob Milliken at 412-221-2922.

The Legion also has and event space available for rent to the general public, complete with bar, kitchen and a capacity of approximately 130 people. Call for details and availability.