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ZEBULON - On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Pike County American Legion Post 197 conducted its Grand Opening Ceremony which also included the other members of the Legion Family 197 consisting of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 197 and the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 197.

Post 197 Commander Bryan Richardson started the ceremony with a Welcome and introduction of guests which included Pike County Manager Rob Morton, City of Zebulon Mayor Joe Walter, and City of Zebulon Council member Chad Morris; American Legion Department of Georgia, 4th District Senior Vice Commander Renee Truitt; Pike County Chamber of Commerce Director Alex Maddox, Chamber Board of Directors member Stefanie Forsyth, Executive Committee member Heather McLendon, and Ambassadors Kristina Gregg and Dalyn Smithson; Pike County Fire Department Chief Wilkerson and members of Station 7, Zebulon; and American Legion Auxiliary President Melanie Simmons and Sons of the American Legion Commander Paul Chatterton.

After the opening prayer offered by Post Chaplain Ron Griffin, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the POW/MIA Recognition, Commander Richardson provided remarks on the Post 197 locations up to the current location with the Zebulon Opportunity Center. Richardson stated, “On 31 August 2026, the great Veteran’s organization would essentially be “homeless.”

Fortunately for us, the Georgia Military College, a major tenant of the Zebulon Opportunity Center, moved out creating space which the City of Zebulon graciously granted us use of a meeting room and storage areas ultimately preventing us from being “homeless.” Richardson thanked the Mayor and City Council for lending them the space needed to continue serving Veterans and the Community.

Following Richardson’s remarks, County Manager Morton representing the County, Mayor Walter representing the City of Zebulon, and Commander Truitt provided remarks.

Then Director Maddox initiated the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with some remarks. Everyone present was invited to stand behind the ribbon and Commander Richardson cut the ribbon ceremoniously opening Post 197 at the Zebulon Opportunity Center.

Following the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, all present were invited to a reception dinner at the Zebulon Park Pavilion.