Legion Auxiliary: Not just for ladies anymore, men and women encouraged to join

BY KAREN SIBERT HADDY
  

Are you related to a U.S. military veteran? Whether you’re the parent, grandparent, brother, sister, son, daughter, or grandchild of a veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces in World War I, World War II, or later, there’s a good chance you’re now eligible to join the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) here on Shelter Island.

At the 2026 American Legion National Convention, new eligibility rules were adopted to allow more people to join — both men and women — and expand the organization’s ability to serve veterans and their families. Young people ages 17 and under can gain valuable volunteer experience by joining as Junior Auxiliary members.

Originally chartered in 1922, ALA Mitchell Unit 281 on Shelter Island works year-round to support the American Legion, families in need in our community, and veterans everywhere. The group’s more than 50 members work hand-in-hand with the Legion to organize events on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, and help with the annual barbecue. Recent fund-raising events have included:

• “Purple Up” t-shirt and bake sale to raise money for support of military children.

• Memorial Day sale of beautiful, long-lasting lawn poppies, crafted by long-time ALA member Sue Klenawicus.

• July 4 decorating contest, open to businesses and private homes alike.

Proceeds from these and other efforts are donated to causes including Shelter Island families in need, scholarships for Shelter Island High School senior students, and area veterans and their families with food insecurity and other needs. 

Involvement with the Legion and the Legion Auxiliary is truly a family affair for the Mundy family. The Auxiliary’s current President is Rebecca Mundy, the proud mother of veteran Michael “Zack” Mundy, who is the Commander of Shelter Island’s Mitchell Post 281. Michael’s wife Shelby now serves as ALA Secretary. Rebecca’s sister, Sharon Gibbs, serves as ALA 1st Vice President.

Treasurer Karen Sibert Haddy, herself a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve, joined the ALA to honor her father and father-in-law. Karen’s father, Gerald Sullivan, was a sniper in the Canadian army who landed at Juno Beach on D-Day. Her father-in law, George Haddy, was a paratrooper and a member of the famous Band of Brothers. He parachuted into Normandy behind enemy lines on D-Day, fought in the Battle of the Bulge, and helped liberate Hitler’s Eagles Nest retreat in the Alps. 

Recently retired ALA officers include Rita Gates, the past President, long-time Treasurer Pamela Jackson, and Secretary Michele German, with many years of valued service among them.

Anyone wishing to know more about the ALA is invited to visit the website ALAforVeterans.org for more information, or email the Shelter Island unit directly at [email protected].