By Conrad Dudderar
Associate Editor
This Tuesday was proclaimed “James Albert ‘Buddy Al’ Wheatley Day” to recognize the Yukon High School graduate and civic leader who led efforts in the 1940s to bring an American Legion post to Yukon.
Yukon Mayor Brian Pillmore read the proclamation at the May 21st Yukon City Council meeting.
Yukon’s 81-year-old American Legion Post building, 1010 W Main, recently was renamed in honor of Wheatley.
Mike Devenitch, commander of Post 160, accepted the Wheatley Day proclamation on behalf of Yukon veterans and Legion members.
“Buddy Al donated the land for the site of the American Legion post, spearheaded fund-raising efforts and oversaw construction of Yukon American Legion Post 160, which was dedicated on May 19, 1949,” said Mayor Pillmore, reading from the proclamation.
“It is fitting to bestow upon this historic structure a name that reflects the enduring legacy of one of our esteemed civic leaders and a distinguished veteran of the Great War.”
J.A. Wheatley was a U.S. Army lieutenant who commanded infantry training during World War I.
Returning to Yukon after the war, Wheatley owned the hardware department of the Mulvey Brothers store and was later president of the Southwest Hardware Company.
He was treasurer of the First Christian Church, Yukon American Legion, YHS Alumni Association, and Yukon Community Fair Association.
He served roles with other organizations include the Yukon School Board, Yukon Lions Club, Yukon Roundup Club, Yukon Masonic Lodge, and Yukon Library.
The Yukon City Council proclamation celebrates Wheatley’s life “full of remarkable achievements along with the highest ideals of public service and selflessness, and commitment to the principles of democracy and community spirit.”
Mayor Pillmore and the council encourage all Yukon citizens to honor Wheatley’s memory and thank veterans for their service to the country.
Yukon’s James Albert Wheatley Memorial Post now has 139 Legion members.
NAMING PROCESS
Commander Devenitch said Yukon’s American Legion started the process of naming Post 160 in January 2023 when he first became commander.
“It was named ‘Yukon Incorporated’ and that just drove us crazy. We searched, and it would always come back to Mr. Wheatley,” said Devenitch, referring to the “incredible things” that he did.
A large sign will be installed declaring the new name – the James Albert Wheatley American Legion Post 160.
“It’s great to have your post here, and great to be on Main Street!” Pillmore told Devenitch.
The American Legion’s mission is: “To enhance the well-being of America’s veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.”
The Legion’s motto is “Veterans Strengthening America.”
For more information about joining the American Legion, Yukon veterans should call (405) 467-0525.
THIS AND THAT …
Among business items approved at the May 21st Yukon City Council meeting were:
- Declaring dilapidated shed at 1000 Queensboro Place a public nuisance and directing city staff to “demolish the structure and to clear the property as quickly as possible.” The unsecured out-building has “fallen in on itself allowing the potential for insects, rodents and vermin to habitat”, according to a Yukon Development Services report.
- Accepting a utility rate study from Garver/Ryper Water Analytics (see story in upcoming edition).
- Purchasing three communications consoles for Yukon Police 911 dispatch. Cost is $58,705.94. The existing consoles were purchased in 2008 and have outdated technology and functions, Yukon Police Chief John Corn said.
- Renewal agreement with Ice Challenge Enterprises for a temporary outdoor ice rink at Chisholm Trail Park for “Christmas in the Park.”
- Appointment of Mayor Pillmore as the City of Yukon’s representative to the Yukon Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
