American Legion in Orlando struggling to stay in business

ORLANDO, Fla. — At The American Legion Post 19, which has been part of the Orlando community for more than 100 years, there is one table set aside that’s meant to sit empty. It’s reserved for prisoners of war and those missing in action.

But Cmdr. Wade Foster, who oversees the post, said he never expected to see all the other seats empty for so long.

While other restaurants are starting to reopen, Post 19 is considered a bar/lounge, and those won’t reopen in the state until at least Phase 2.

“We’ve been closed 63 days now,” Foster said.

The pandemic shut down the legion. For those who work there, it’s been difficult.

But for the veterans who call this place a home away from home – it’s been even harder.

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“There’s a lot of them we worry about because they are out there alone,” employee Dolly Rodemeyer said.

Foster said it puts them in a tough spot since they’re trying to pay bills and workers – and help veterans.

“It’s a sad thing that the veteran community here in Central Florida (has) been overlooked entirely,” Foster said.

There are veterans who are on the reopening task forces, but Foster said he wishes community groups that help veterans would have been included as well, and that there are ways for the legion to reopen safely.

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With money at the post dwindling, Foster said he’s had to help others out of his own pocket.

Foster said he’s hoping for more donations, and that he’ll soon reopen, with the goal of getting back to the business of serving those who have served.

“It’s a detriment to us because the hardest thing for us is to not be able to help when there’s a vet out there that needs it,” Foster said.

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