photo by: Joselyn King

American Legion Post 1 Commander John Powell addresses Ohio County commissioners and asks for their assistance in purchasing an e-gaming system for veterans’ use at their building.

American Legion Post 1 is wanting to purchase an e-gaming system for the purposes of helping veterans deal with post traumatic stress disorder or drug and alcohol problems.

The system also might prove useful in attracting new members, according to Post 1 Commander John Powell.

Powell addressed Ohio County commissioners about Post 1 efforts this week, and he asked the commission to assist them financially.

“Studies show that veterans trying to recover from mental health issues have found that video games can help in overcoming such disorders as PTSD and substance abuse,” he said. “Other studies have described using video games to distract the overwhelming symptoms involving suicide and drug and alcohol abuse.

“Also, having this system in-house will also provide the veteran the opportunity to interact with other veterans.”

When Post 1 representatives looked at purchasing the system two years ago, the cost was $20,000, according to Powell. High speed computers, large monitors and necessary furniture are among the items needed.

“We are currently working with Bethany College to find ways to bring that cost down,” he said. “Bethany College has an e-game program, and we are in discussion with them. We are hoping to get a portion of that down with their help.”

Powell told commissioners Post 1 already has submitted two grant applications to cover the system’s cost, with each grant seeking $5,000.

In addition, the organization also soon will have its alcohol license, and Powell noted he expects that to be a revenue generator for the organization.

“Any help you could bring in to cover costs would be greatly appreciated,” he continued

There is a movement where members from one American Legion post compete with other veterans and Legion posts throughout the world, Powell added.

“It was interesting for me to learn that troops overseas – when they come off patrol and have their down time – one of the things they most do is e-game,” he said.

Post 1 is also seeking to raise money to send local youths to Boys State at Jackson’s Mill and Girls State at Davis and Elkins College. The cost for each boy to attend is $350, and for each girl it is $400.

Both events take place June 8-14.

“We currently have 15 students needing funding, and we do expect that to go up as more students submit their names,” Powell said. “We are asking you to sponsor five girls and five boys.”

He also noted the Post 1 color guard is in need of new uniforms.

“The uniforms are 10 years old and need to be replaced,” Powell said. “We have 10 members we need to outfit, and it is going to cost us about $3,000.”

He explained the color guard “is visible in the community,” and their role is to help educate the community about the military and the significance of the flag.