By Beth Taylor
As other American Legion posts have experienced a drop in membership, the Lowell Beaver American Legion Post No. 470 in Fishers continues to grow. The Fishers Legionnaires take pride in their commitment to community service as well as their shared military kinship.
“Anyone driving by can stop in and feel welcome,” said fourth-term Post Commander Chris Jordan. “That’s a common misconception. You don’t have to be a member to come in.
Jordan served in the Army and joined Post 470 in memory of his father “My father was a member of this post and always enjoyed coming here,” said Jordan. Almost every position is a volunteer position. “You work it just as you would a regular job,” he added.
When Jordan joined Post 470, the atmosphere was not conducive to younger veterans. “There was a gap that we needed to fill. We created a place where younger veterans can go with families, while older veterans can still feel comfortable,” said Jordan. “You won’t get the same feeling in every post as we have here.”
Anyone can come in, but only members or guests signed in by members can drink alcoholic beverages, except for three community days each month. Veterans of all branches of the military can become members. Family members who have had a father, grandfather or great-grandfather serve in the military are also eligible for membership.
The full horseshoe-shaped bar was recently updated after a two-year fundraiser. “We’re really proud of our restaurant, too,” said Jordan. “We use local meat from Archer’s here in Fishers.”
Active Post 470 holds bingo, blackjack, live trivia and karaoke events to span generations of patrons. It also hosts fundraisers, such as pancake breakfasts, for area high schools and actively supports other community service projects.
Post 470 serves as a support service for local veterans. “We can help a veteran pay a bill or buy groceries and with greater needs, like being six months behind on a mortgage, we can help them find assistance,” said Jordan.
Jordan directs veterans in need to Wayne Long, the Hamilton County Veterans Service representative, 1 Hamilton County Square, Suite 179, Noblesville 46060; or by phone at 776-9610.
