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In 1972 a group of African-American veterans met in an attempt to establish another American Legion post within the city of Warner Robins, Georgia. In 1974, twenty-five veterans along with signatures and funds, made a request for charter which was granted by the state headquarters in June of that year, hence starting the history of American Legion Post 594. The post was named for William G. Turner and Daryl Ragan, both of whom were the last two African-American soldiers from Houston County killed in conflict prior to the post’s charter. Ladies Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion were formed within months after receiving the charter.
The original post location was Griff’s Place on Elberta Road in Warner Robins. After two years the post moved to First Street across from the train depot and Robins Air Force Base. Seven months later, in 1976, the post moved to the corner of Moody and Pleasant Hill Roads where it remained until 2002. The current location at 1523 Moody Road sits on 3.5 acres and the post recently added an additional 200 square feet consisting of a kitchen, bathrooms, and offices.
Since its inception, Post 594 has benefitted from the outstanding leadership of twenty commanders, all of whom assisted the post in exceeding its devotion to the Department of Georgia and Warner Robins Community. Two past commanders have become Sixth District commanders and other post officers have held various offices at the district level. The post has twice hosted a visit from the American Legion’s National Commander, both times receiving kudos for its growth, positive image in the community and its continued participation within the department. The post consistently receives awards for Outstanding Post in Category Three and 100 Percent Membership.
Through the years Post 594 has been instrumental in projects like Habitat for Humanity, Adopt-A-Road and the Willie Pitts, Jr. National Emergency Fund, of which the eleventh annual fundraiser was hosted at the post in June of 2011 with great success. Additionally, Post 594 is well known in the Warner Robins community for their charitable contributions to assist those in need throughout the year. The post remembers its veterans with an annual Veteran’s Dinner for the members of the VA Hospital in Dublin, Georgia.
During the year, the post’s Ladies Auxiliary and Legion Riders hold numerous fund raisers in conjunction with Legionnaires to provide scholarship money to deserving Air Force Junior ROTC cadets and graduating high school seniors. The Auxiliary sponsors young ladies to attend the Georgia Girls State and the Legion Riders sponsor young men to attend Georgia Boys State.
The devotion of Post 594’s Legionnaires, Ladies Auxiliary and Legion Riders is energetic and steadfast to duty. These patriots continue to diligently work to preserve the spirit and honor of the American Legion for their community, state and country.
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