To the editor: I wanted to thank the GazetteLeader for publicizing the disappointing news regarding the future of American Legion baseball at Post 139.
Our son, James, had the honor to play for Bob Romano last summer and it was, by far, the best experience our family has ever had on and off the field. James has played ball in Arlington for 12 years, competitively for eight, and currently plays on the club baseball team at the University of Virginia.
To hear that Post 139 might not field a team for summer 2024 is disheartening, to say the least. As posted on Post 139’s Website: “American Legion Baseball is a national institution, having thrived through a world war, several national tragedies, and times of great prosperity as well as great despair. The league still stands behind the traditional values upon which it was founded in 1925. American Legion Baseball has taught hundreds of thousands of young Americans the importance of sportsmanship, good health and active citizenship. The program is also a promoter of equality, making teammates out of young athletes regardless of their income levels or social standings. American Legion Baseball has been, and continues to be, a stepping stone to manhood for millions of young men who have gone on to serve their country or community, raise families or play the sport at the highest level.”
I’m disappointed in Post 139’s current decision and hopeful its leadership will come to the right decision for the benefit of the young men of Arlington.
Jamie Pilot, Arlington
