Albuquerque Post 95
“Veterans Strengthening America!”
Post 95 History
The history of Albuquerque Post 95 is deeply rooted in local civil rights and community legacy. It holds a distinct place in New Mexico’s history as a trailblazing veterans’ organization.
Founded as Albuquerque’s First Black American Legion Post
Post 95 was originally founded in 1947 by a group of 46 African-American veterans returning home from service. At a time when many civic institutions and veteran groups across the country were segregated, these local heroes came together to establish a space dedicated to mutual helpfulness, patriotism, and community mentorship.
2. The Original Name: The William Mason Post #95
The post was originally chartered as the William Mason Post 95. The name was chosen to explicitly honor local heroes from both World Wars:
– It recognized the veterans of World War I who paved the way.
– It specifically honored the “younger heroes” of World War II, taking its name from D.T. Mason, a young service member from Albuquerque who was tragically killed in action during WWII.
3. Leadership and Legacy
The post’s very first Post Commander was Thornton Taylor (1896–1953), a prominent WWI veteran who lived in Albuquerque for over two decades. Taylor was a massive pillar of the local community—not only leading the new American Legion post but also serving as a member of the local Masonic Lodge and his church. Today, early leaders like Taylor are honored in historical preservation efforts, including Albuquerque’s Historic Fairview Cemetery.
Strengthen Veterans
Strengthen America
Serve the Community
Build Youth Character
Post 95 Today
While our history is firmly rooted in the civil rights milestones of 1947, Albuquerque Post 95 remains a dynamic and vital force in today’s social landscape. We recognize that the needs of our community and our veterans are constantly evolving. Today, our mission extends beyond our walls as we actively work to support a new generation of service members, engage in local community outreach, and build a welcoming space where diverse perspectives meet under a shared banner of patriotism.
Advocating for Veterans’ Wellness and Future Leaders
In today’s fast-paced world, Post 95 is deeply committed to the modern issues facing our veterans, with a strong focus on mental health, wellness resources, and transition support for those returning to civilian life. Simultaneously, we are heavily invested in shaping the future of New Mexico’s youth. Through mentorship programs, local scholarship advocacy, and community-building initiatives, we ensure that the values of mutual helpfulness and civic responsibility are passed down to tomorrow’s leaders.
Building Bridges in the Albuquerque Community
We believe that a strong veterans’ organization is one that actively listens to and collaborates with its neighbors. In the current social landscape, Post 95 serves as a community anchor, partnering with local organizations, hosting public awareness events, and organizing volunteer drives that directly benefit the city of Albuquerque. We aren’t just a piece of history—we are an active, living part of this city’s daily growth, working hard to ensure that no veteran or neighbor stands alone.