The Sons of the American Legion in Newhall hosted their annual car show fundraiser, coming together to raise funds to keep the doors of the American Legion open for veterans. 

This year marks the fourth year that the veteran fundraiser was hosted at the Castaic RV Park, complete with dozens of vintage and luxury cars, motorcycles and live music. 

“You cannot do events like this unless you have a lot of people helping you out,” said Sons of the American Legion commander MIke Murlow. “We have a good core group and that’s how you get things done.”

Live music

The Sons of the American Legions are a group that stems from the American Legion and consists of people who are directly descended from veterans but have not served themselves. Both of Murlow’s grandparents served in WW11 and he views his volunteering as a way to give back. 

“It’s a way for me to give back a little. Veterans are often overlooked. A lot of them have health issues or just need a hug sometimes,” said Murlow. 

Sons of the American Legion historian Bradley Grose praised Murlow for his work: “When Mike showed up it was like a bunch of misfits who had no runner. He came along and turned the entire thing around,” he said.

Nearly everyone at Saturday’s event, which began at 10 a.m. and included a fly-over organized by Grose, had a connection to veterans. 

Ron Perez, commander of the American Legion which is a group for people who have served, was in the military during the 1980s. 

“If it wasn’t for the Sons, the Legion wouldn’t exist,” said Perez. “They do a big part of our fundraising and they make things happen.”

Much of the funds raised at the cra show go towards maintaining the American Legion building on Main Street, a historical building and is often in need of repairs. According to music coordinator and drummer Chuck Strong, the building was built by William S. Hart at the same time his historic house was built. 

“It keeps our doors open,” said Perez of the fundraisers they host. “All our money is to help veterans in need really and it’s a place for veterans to come and socialize with each other.”

Strong commented that this year’s fundraiser seemed to host the largest number of vehicles the organization had in comparison to past years, sparking hope for the funds raised.

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