By Derrick Thomas | The Selma Times-Journal

The Thomas R. Mackin American Legion Post 20 of Selma is once again hosting its annual fish fry to honor local veterans as well as their families.

Established in 1919 by congress, The American Legion was created as a patriotic veterans organization with the intent to cultivate helpfulness and preserve the memories of those who have once been a part of the organization.

Thanks to the compassionate efforts of Thomas Right, the chairman and founder of the annual fish fry, he seeks to fulfill American Legion’s vow by hosting this commemorative event, which first saw its debut two years ago in 2016.

Thomas Right is the post chaplain of the Thomas R. Mackin American Legion Post 20 of Selma, and has been a member of the American Legion for four years.

Last year, in 2017, the event garnered a total of 300 people.

Despite having a major role in the creation of the fish fry, Right does not credit himself alone. With high regard, he also gives thanks to the National Guard and the many vendors who are willing to assist him in the commemoration effort.

“Without our vendors or the National Guard we probably couldn’t do it,” Right said.

Right, as well as the many other American Legion Post 20 members involved are thrilled to have the event once again.

Thomas Right has dubbed the event, “a time of fellowship.”

“We came up with the idea that we need to let our veterans in Selma know that the American Legion stills remembers them,” Right stated.

The fish fry will take place Saturday, May 5 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Selma National Guard Armory on U.S. Highway 80 West in Selma.

The fish fry will also be free of charge to the community, allowing anyone who is interested to attend the event.

If there are any questions regarding the Selma American Legion Post 20’s fish fry, contact Right at (334) 872-8502 or (334) 412-0438. John Coon, another member of the Thomas R. Mackin American Legion Post 20 of Selma, can also be contacted at (334) 327-8724.