The Waynesboro American Legion Post 130 held a ceremony on Saturday, February 10th to celebrate the renaming of the Legion building in honor of James “Coy Anderson,” a prominent man of many positions in his life, and fellow American Legion and Sons of the American Legion (SAL) member, to the 1st Sgt. James “Coy” Anderson American Legion Post 130.
This renaming was well deserved as Coy was a true patriot and a friend to many, as shown in his “Bus Stop 130.” Coy’s “Bus Stop” project made many feel invited and welcome for breakfast, or just to have a cup of coffee or his famous breakfast pie. Anyone who stopped by the Legion Post often encountered Coy and his many words of wisdom.
Saturday’s ceremony, led by the 130 Legion Post Commander Fred Lawrence, drew a good crowd, and consisted of speeches to honor Coy by Colby Staggs, SAL 130 Vice Commander; Ron Pulley, Legion 130 Past Post Commander; and Kevin Myers, all good friends of Coy. Collinwood American Legion Post 254 Color Guard posted the colors and Ron Duran, 130 Legion Vice Commander, gave the invocation. Members of Coy’s
family attended the ceremony and are pictured with the new sign that will adorn the outside of the building. Coy’s family spoke kind, touching words about Coy throughout the event.
The Legion family was well represented at the event, as several members of the Legion were present along with members of the SAL 130. Coy’s grandsons and brother, Tim Anderson, were present as well. Completing the Legion family were several members of the Ladies Auxiliary Unit 130, including Mendy Clanton, Vice President; Coy’s daughters, Jennie Harper, President; Mary Lauren Garner, Secretary; Bonnie Butler; and Lottie Warren; his granddaughter, Claire Ann Workman; and his wife, Betty Anderson.
A nice reception was held afterward, end everyone enjoyed fellowship of old and new acquaintances along with remembrances of “Coy stories.”
The 1st Sgt. James Coy Anderson Sons of The American Legion Squadron 130 said that they took great pride in being associated with Saturday’s events. Coy was a strong supporter of the SAL Squadron 130 and was held in high regard, with his fellow Legion members often seeking his advice. His fellow Legion members were always honored when Coy called on them to assist him with the placement of flags on veterans’ graves on Memorial Day, a project so dear to him. He was a true source of inspiration and will be greatly missed.
