From left are North Webster American Legion Post 253 Adjutant Bob Harding, Past Commander Ken Wilson, American Legion National Commander James Koutz and Legion Service Officer Tim Smith. (Photo provided)

Earlier in January, James E. “Jim” Koutz, the National Commander of the American Legion, paid an informal visit to Herbert Kuhn Post 253 in North Webster. He spent the afternoon socializing with officers and members of Post 253.

During his visit, Koutz presented a “National Commander’s Appreciation Clock” to the Post, as well as National Commander’s pins and challenge coins to post officers and members present. Koutz is the first National American Legion Commander in 50 years who is from Indiana.

He is a Legion member at Post 200 in Boonville and a Sons of the American Legion member at Post 253 in North Webster.