Palatine American Legion seeks donations for Sailor Holiday Dinner

Posted November 11, 2025 8:21 pm

By Bill Pohlman, Palatine American Legion

American Legion Post 690 will host their annual Adopt-A-Sailor dinner on Thursday, Nov. 27. Donations are being sought. Courtesy of Bill Pohlman

The American Legion Post 690 family is seeking donations for their Adopt-A-Sailor dinner on Thursday, Nov. 27, when sailors from Great Lakes Naval Station will come to the American Legion hall for a Thanksgiving dinner.

“We are once again opening the American Legion on Thanksgiving Day to those that are actively serving our country,” said Sue Hallsten, project chair. “With Great Lakes Naval Station being so close, we are bringing a bus load of recruits to the Legion and providing them with a day of thanks.”

At Post 690's Adopt-A-Sailor dinner, sailors from Great Lakes Naval Station will come to the American Legion hall for a Thanksgiving dinner. Courtesy of Bill Pohlman

As part of Adopt-A-Sailor, the American Legion family is asking the community to help financially support this dinner.

Checks made payable to the American Legion with a notation of Adopt-A-Sailor can be sent to the American Legion Attention: Adopt-A-Sailor, 122 W. Palatine Road, Palatine, IL 60067.

Donations can also be made online through PayPal using the Donate button at Alpost690.us. All donations will receive a letter for tax deductions.

American Legion Post 690 will provide dinner, activities and the ability to call home for sailors who will not be able to enjoy Thanksgiving with their families, Courtesy of Bill Pohlman

Since these sailors will not be able to enjoy the holiday with their families, the Legion will be providing dinner, a day of activities and the ability to call home for however long they desire.

“It is our goal to provide to these young men and women a memory that will stay with them their entire life,” said Hallsten.

The American Legion Family consists of the American Legion, the Sons of the American Legion (S.A.L.) and Legion Auxiliary. The American Legion and Legion Auxiliary began in 1919 while the S.A.L. was created in 1932 as patriotic veterans’ organizations devoted to mutual helpfulness.

These organizations are committed to mentoring and sponsorship of programs in communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security and continued devotion to their fellow service members and veterans.

For further information on the American Legion, Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion, any of their sponsored events or for membership write to their respective organizations at 122 W. Palatine Road, Palatine, IL 60067, call (847) 359-1606 or visit Alpost690.us.