Selma’s American Legion Post 20 welcomed a full house Thursday night as Jesse Sanchez was installed as Post Commander.

Sanchez said he was thrilled to again serve as commander of the post and hoped to continue to do great things.

“I would like to thank each and every one of you for being present for this occasion,” he said. “This is not my first time around, but I will continue to try to do the things that we can do and do them better.”

The post, Sanchez said, has always headed in a positive direction, and he hopes to keep the group moving forward.

“It is my distinct pleasure to serve as a commander,” he said. “I certainly am looking forward to having the cooperation and support of each and every one of you. There are some things we need to do, not only as officers, but as members of this post because the responsibility falls on the shoulders of every member.”

One of the Legion’s most important missions, Sanchez said, is increasing membership. The scope of the military has changed, he said. The group’s recruitment of new members should also move forward.

“I’d like to suggest that each and every one of you that knows a veteran, no matter the war, invite them out,” he said. “And remember, it is not only a male organization. There are young ladies who have volunteered to serve their country and put everything on the line like we have.”

During the meeting, guest speaker John Sherrer reminded the men and women in attendance why they served and why people continue to serve. Sherrer quoted a speech from President Ronald Reagan discussing the importance of defending freedom.

“Freedom is a fragile thing and is never more than one generation away from extinction,” he said. “It is not ours by inheritance. It must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation.”