Santa Claus visited Marksville Elementary, at the invitation of American Legion Post 130 -- and extra special efforts by Tom Wacker. The annual event for children in the school's exceptional education programs is holiday tradition for the post.
American Legion hosts party for exceptional ed students
Fri, 12/25/2015 - 05:00
Raymond Daye
Raymond L. Daye
As the happy strains of “Here Comes Santa Claus” rang through the Marksville Elementary School cafeteria, the jolly old man in the red suit came around the corner with a big grin and big wave for all the good boys and girls waiting for him.
This special visit from St. Nick on Dec. 14 was arranged by American Legion Post 130 and Legion Auxiliary Unit 130 to bring a little more holiday cheer to the exceptional (special) education students at Marksville Elementary. The American Legion chapters have sponsored the annual party for many years.
Post Commander Matthew Foster led the delegation from the post and also served as official photographer for the event.
Special thanks for Santa’s visit goes to Post 130 member Tom Wacker.
Post Senior Vice Commander Benny Bordelon said each child received a Christmas card with $3 inside, as well as a box of chocolate-covered cherries donated by Walmart, and cookies provided by the women’s auxiliary. The children also enjoyed a cold, soft drink during the party, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Brad Sparks.
Eleanor Gremillion, with the Unit 130 auxiliary, said the Christmas party for the exceptional education students has been part of the American Legion’s Christmas for many years.
She said Post 130 was formed shortly after World War I. The women’s auxiliary Unit 130 was established in 1951.
Bordelon said the post is involved in several activities during the year, but the Christmas party and visit from Santa Claus may very well be the members’ favorite.
“We love to see the look of joy on the faces of the children,” Foster said. “It’s a holiday tradition that we really enjoy.”