By: Vareva Harris, Editor
Vareva@thewoodrufftimes.com
WOODRUFF — In the early 1980s, a group of United States Armed Forces veterans in the Woodruff community set out to build more than a meeting place—they established a lasting institution rooted in service, dignity, and community pride.
Led by the late Willie James (W.J.) Gist, alongside his close friend, the late David O. Hawkins, and other local veterans, the American Legion Ronald E. McNair Post 270 was founded and named in honor of Ronald E. McNair, a South Carolina native whose legacy continues to inspire.
McNair, an accomplished physicist and astronaut from Lake City, South Carolina, died tragically on January 28, 1986, during the launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger in Cape Canaveral, Florida. His life and achievements represented excellence, perseverance, and the pursuit of opportunity—values the founders sought to reflect in the Post’s mission.
At the time of its creation, opportunities for African Americans in Woodruff to gather in welcoming, high-quality spaces were limited. McNair Post 270 quickly filled that void, becoming a central hub for community events, celebrations, and fellowship. Over the decades, it has remained a cornerstone of unity and cultural significance.
That legacy was on full display April 18, 2026, during the Founding Members’ Award Ceremony, where community leaders and members gathered to honor the Post’s original charter veterans. The program was led by Vice Commander Tonya Johnson, who served as master of ceremonies and presented the POW/MIA Table history. The invocation and closing prayer were delivered by Bruce Westfield.
Adjutant Dianna Floyd provided a historical overview of the Post, reflecting on its founding and continued impact in the Woodruff community.
Today, the Post is led by Commander James A. Bates, who continues the tradition of honoring those who built it. During the ceremony, Bates recognized four living veterans who were part of the original charter: Ivy Durrah (U.S. Navy, 1955–1958), Jay Browning (U.S. Marines, 1969–1970), Douglas Jones (U.S. Army, 1966–1968), and William Foster (U.S. Army, 1964–1966).
Each was presented with a commemorative plaque, recognizing their foresight and commitment more than 40 years ago—an investment that continues to benefit the Woodruff community today. Present to receive the plaque were Ivy Durrah and William Foster. Commander Bates also delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of preserving the Post’s legacy for future generations.
The Post’s impact has been sustained through generations of leadership. Community members continue to honor the contributions of past commanders, including the late Raleigh Blackman and Edward Pearson, whose dedication helped strengthen the organization’s foundation.
As the Ronald E. McNair American Legion Post 270 moves forward, its legacy remains firmly rooted in the vision of its founders: a place where service is honored, history is preserved, and community thrives.
(Photos provided by Vice Commander Tonya Johnson)
