That’s the conclusion reached by authorities about the former commander of American Legion Post 22 using post money to purchase a new car, and rightly so.
Former post commander Herbert Johnson bought the car in November 20008 after the post’s board of directors voted to authorize the purchase via a telephone poll. Johnson said traded in his old car, which he said was worn out from use doing post business, and bought the new car for $13,900.
Post 22 officials consulted with local law enforcement agencies and the 16th Circuit Solicitor’s Office and in all instances the conclusion reached was that there had been no criminal intent involved in the purchase, so there would be no prosecution.
“We have looked for redress for this at every level with no success,
new commander Paul Davis said this week. “So at this point the matter is dropped unless something else turns up. The post wants to move ahead.”
As we pointed out in an editorial earlier this month, Post 22’s board of directors were helping a friend when they voted to approve the vehicle purchase. These are honest men who served their country with honor. Buying a new car may have been viewed as a way to repay Johnson, who had dedicated many years to serving his fellow veterans and the community.
This is an internal matter for Post 22 and its members to deal with in whatever way they choose.
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