It’s been quite a month for Phyllis and Bernie Schnoes. Bernie was recognized for his 90th birthday. The next day he and wife, Phyllis celebrated 68 years of marriage. All right around an Easter gathering. They enjoyed a large family turnout for the collection of events.
And just Sunday April 16 the couple was rewarded for nearly 18 years of dedicated and reliable volunteerism to the Paullina American Legion.
In October of 2005 a former manager brought the books of the Legion in and left them, then he was gone. That left then Legion Commander Jim Gnade to figure out what to do. He did a lot of the book work with Bernie and Phyllis helping with some of the on-sight work at the Legion building. They ordered the liquor and beer, especially for scheduled events. Often in the beginning they used their own money to get what they needed. Eventually, as Jim’s health failed around 2010, the Schnoes’ had him make the Veterans’ Memorial on Main Street his priority. They took the reins at the Legion building.
They found good, reliable volunteers to help with bartending for weddings. They themselves or with Legion or Legion Auxiliary help served lunches at the annual craft fair or dances to help with raising funds to operate the event hall. Bernie says, “It gave us something to do.” Phyllis says, “It was fun!”
More to the mission of an American Legion they pair could be counted on anytime to get requested hospital equipment to veterans in need. Legions across the country are a go-to for veterans to access items such as wheel chairs, walkers or even a hospital bed. This service is provided to veterans all around the area for any donation – or none.
When a piece of equipment needed repair Bernie and Phyllis would drive it to Sanborn for repairs or later, to Rock Valley. On occasion a piece of equipment could not be repaired. It would be used for parts. Or is some cases repaired equipment would be destined for places in the world where the need was extraordinary. They shared a story of some equipment going to Guatemala. But for Bernie and Phyllis, it’s time for new faces and ideas to take the torch.
The torch has been passed to members of the Auxiliary. There are a core of about 6 or 7 women willing to take on keeping the Legion, not just viable, but an event destination. According to Bernie and Phyllis, “They have ideas. They are talking about their ideas.” Things most likely will change.
Bernie and Phyllis met great people during their time leading the Legion building. They’ve met great people. They worked with them, accommodating their needs for whatever the event at the Legion would be. Phyllis says, “There is a story for every event.”
They were never compensated for their effort. The volunteer hours were reported to American Legion Auxiliary, but Phyllis declined to even guess how many.
Truly their friendly, relaxed way to work with the public will be missed. But with excitement we welcome a new group of energetic volunteers and their ideas.