Hometown Heroes Morale Boost Missions

✯ ✯ ✯ Morale Boost Mission – Marine Officer Seattle ✯ ✯ ✯

November 15, 2025 – Cathay Post 186 completed another successful Morale Boost Mission in support of our Hometown Heroes—Marine Corps OSO staff, officers, and officer candidates. The Seattle OSO’s mission is to help top college students and graduates earn the opportunity to lead Marines.

After a 2½-hour workout in the rain and mud, the Marines and future officer candidates were more than ready for a hot brunch.

Our Post’s U.S. and USMC flags proudly flew during the contract enlistment ceremony and group photo, setting a fitting tone of honor and tradition.

We celebrated the USMC Birthday by watching a motivational message from Marine Corps Commandant General Eric M. Smith, reinforcing the spirit of the Corps.

As honored guests, we were invited to be the first to enjoy the birthday cake, alongside the youngest Marine present—a 23-year-old Second Lieutenant—upholding the cherished Marine Corps cake-cutting tradition.

A heartfelt thank you to Gesa Credit Union, our primary sponsor, for providing food, beverages, and high-protein snacks that kept everyone fueled and motivated.

Another outstanding morale mission—uplifting, inspiring, and a privilege to meet these young patriotic Americans.  

Semper Fidelis!

November 5, 2025 | UW HUB – Student Veteran Life

Members of Cathay Post 186 had the honor of meeting a room full of highly motivated University of Washington student veterans—representing every branch of the military and pursuing degrees from bachelor’s to PhDs.

The Husky Union Building (HUB) is home to Student Veteran Life, a welcoming space where veterans can study, grab a free cup of coffee, print, or simply connect with fellow veterans.

We were proud to provide lunch to show our appreciation, especially with Veterans Day just around the corner.

Special thanks to Dr. Jordan Houghton for his leadership and to Gesa Credit Union’s Local Heroes Grant for making this Morale Boost Mission possible.

October 6, 2025 — American Legion Cathay Post 186 carried out its latest Puget Sound Hometown Hero Morale Boost Mission (MBM) today at the King County Fire District #20 training facility, honoring the brave men and women who serve our community in law enforcement, firefighting, and emergency response.

The event, held at a King County facility, included personnel from King County Fire District #20 as well as King County Sheriff’s Office deputies and staff from a nearby satellite office. Participants were recognized for their service and dedication to public safety. Each firefighter, officer, and staff member received a Puget Sound Hometown Hero challenge coin, along with snacks, lunch, and words of encouragement.

Cathay Post #186 Vice Commander James H.V. To and members of the post emphasized the Post’s continued commitment to recognizing and uplifting those who protect the community.

The Puget Sound Hometown Hero Morale Boost Mission program is made possible through the generosity of Gesa Credit Union’s Local Heroes Grant and community donors, whose support ensures that veterans, military units, firefighters, and law enforcement officers throughout the region continue to receive appreciation and encouragement for their vital work.

July 31, 2025 – Cathay Post #186 participated in today’s VA Puget Sound Resource Fair at the Seattle Campus, joining nearly 20 VA and veteran service organizations.

Veterans and visitors enjoyed live music by the Navy Band Northwest Woodwind Quintet and met with an outstanding community of VA staff and military leaders—including U.S. Coast Guard Northwest District Commander RADM Avanni.

We handed out 25 dozen donuts in appreciation of those who stopped by and shared how American Legion Cathay Post #186 works to “Strengthen America.”

July 2025:  

To the Officers and Staff of the Renton Police Department,

On behalf of American Legion Cathay Post #186, thank you for your dedicated service and daily commitment to keeping our community safe.

Our recent visit was a small gesture to express our deep appreciation for all that you do—often without recognition or thanks. Please know that your efforts do not go unnoticed. We are proud to stand with you and grateful for your tireless work to protect and serve.

With gratitude,

American Legion Cathay Post #186