American Legion grants first post in Washington prison

GRAYS HARBOR COUNTY, Wash. — A prison in Grays Harbor County is making history by forming the state's first American Legion post for veterans behind bars.

"No matter what these guys have done to be here, at one time in their life, they picked up a rifle and stepped to a post to defend democracy," said Frank Sterling, American Legion post commander.

Sterling spearheaded the push to establish a post inside a prison.

There are more than 1,900 inmates at Stafford Creek Corrections Center, and about 300 of them are veterans.

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"I think people should be proud, no matter where they're at," said Jack Axtman, who's a prisoner and Air Force veteran.

The post is made up of 45 minimum- and medium-security prisoners who've committed an array of crimes.

"I was involved with drugs for a minute, but now I see things a lot different," said Ivan Rogers.

Rogers is an incarcerated Army veteran. He lives in a cellblock made up entirely of men who've served our nation.

He said the American Legion gives him a sense of purpose.

"It has a positive impact, not only on me, but on everyone who's in here," said Rogers.

Sterling admits, there's been pushback.

"Some people say they don't deserve to be legion members," he said.

Sterling argues the American Legion is designed to help veterans.

He started working with the Stafford Creek veterans eight months ago. He's already noticed a change.

"They were a little sullen and forgotten, as you would expect, and they have blossomed," said Sterling.

The American Legion said other prisons have already reached out.

Stafford Creek is planning a celebration in January 2020 to commemorate its permanent charter.

Cox Media Group