Tea time? Me time? A good time for all!
We, as members of Warrioress League 209 (WL209), are committed to building community, and we lived that commitment by spending a Saturday afternoon with the ladies’ auxiliary of the American Legion Karl Ross Post 16. Nine members of Warrioress League 209 joined in ALA’s fundraising efforts by attending the annual Tea Luncheon held at Karl Ross Post on April 11, 2026. And, we met Lisa, an Air Force veteran who was attending with friends, so 10 women veterans attended.
I also attended last year, for the first time. I entered hesitantly, sporting a dress complemented with white gloves to my elbows, a beaded silver clutch, and an appropriate hat for afternoon tea. But, I struggled. The struggle? I was at an American Legion Post. I should have felt comfortable. I didn’t know a soul. I stood around uncomfortably, waiting for the only person I knew who would be in attendance — Sarom. She was fashionably late, of course. Occupy yourself, I thought. Have some tea. Tea. Yes, a spot of tea would comfort me, but it was nowhere to be found. Did they forget the tea? I never found the tea last year. Was there any??? People, does anyone know?
Although I’m sure last year’s tea luncheon was remarkable, this year’s better suited me. Anticipation of a tableful of Warrioresses was more reassuring. The food spread was beautiful, and I recognized many of my faves from Trader Joes. And, I found the tea! The dessert auction and raffles appeared to bring in needed funds. Faces and names were more familiar. More welcoming. Not only the women of WL209, but also those of the American Legion Auxiliary with whom I have become more familiar. Most, if not all of them, have been engaged in veteran advocacy longer than we have. We have much to be grateful for and to learn from these women.
American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Karl Ross Post 16 is a remarkable group of women who are committed to “Service, Not Self.” Each year the April Tea Luncheon is one of ALA’s biggest fundraisers in support of their guiding principle: Honoring and enhancing the lives of veterans, service members, and the families of both. They often work tirelessly and unrecognized in support of us. It was nice to reciprocate by supporting their fundraiser.ges.
We were seen. We were heard. We were recognized. We reached out and built bridges. We embraced the community that surrounds and supports us. Thanks ALA! And thanks, Sisters-in-Arms for coming out to share a spot of tea, cream, and a lump or two of sugar. You all looked lovely – Maria M., Elaine, Polly, Lynn, Bernie, and Sarom. Additionally, Maria G. and Corrine, thank you for bridging the communities and providing us with a lovely table. And welcome, Lisa!
If you missed out, I guess it’s the Luau next. I’ve never been. Let’s go! Start shopping for your Hawaiian muumuu or grass skirt.
As Eleanor Roosevelt, famously, or not so famously, said “A woman is like a tea bag – you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.” Hmmmm? I think she meant to say “The military.” You are strong; be empowered Sisters.
Once again,
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