Walcott Unit 166
A Legacy of Service to the Auxiliary
For fifty-five years, the members of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 166 of Walcott have known one constant presence at the heart of their work: Linda Stone. What is remarkable about those 55 years is that Linda not only served as an active member, but she also led the Unit as its President and leader for thirty-six consecutive years. As Linda retires from her long tenure as president of Unit 166, the Auxiliary and the entire community pause to recognize a remarkable legacy of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to veterans and their families.
Linda’s commitment to service runs deep. As the wife of a United States Air Force veteran and the proud mother of three children—one of whom is a retired member of the North Dakota Air National Guard—she has always understood the sacrifices made by military families. Her family’s tradition of service also includes two brothers who served in the Armed Forces. But Linda’s contributions extend far beyond her own family. Over the years, she has served the American Legion Auxiliary in numerous leadership roles including: District 10 President, Department of Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation (VA&R) Field and Home Service Chairwoman, and Unit Treasurer. In each role, she brought the same energy, compassion, and tireless work ethic that members of Unit 166 have come to admire.
Perhaps no events better reflect Linda’s dedication than the annual Memorial Day program and dinner she faithfully organized year after year. Each spring, Linda coordinated every detail—securing guest speakers, arranging the program, and rallying volunteers to prepare and serve the meal that followed. What many saw as a meaningful community tradition was, behind the scenes, the result of Linda’s countless phone calls, planning sessions, and quiet determination to ensure veterans were properly honored.
Her leadership did not stop there. Every November, Linda again took the lead in organizing the Annual Veterans Dinner, arranging speakers and volunteers so that the event would be both memorable and meaningful for the veterans who attended.
Linda also took on many of the less visible but equally important responsibilities that kept our Auxiliary unit running. She managed communications, guided the unit’s activities, and organized the annual Christmas party for Auxiliary members. Beyond Unit events, she regularly gathered groups to visit the local Veterans Home, where they hosted bingo parties and helped veterans shop for special Christmas gifts at the ND Veterans Home in Lisbon.
When the Iraq War created a need for hand-knitted helmet liners for service members overseas, Linda immediately mobilized the unit. Members picked up knitting needles and crochet hooks, producing helmet caps for deployed troops for as long as the military requested them.
Her dedication to honoring veterans extends even into the quiet spaces of local cemeteries. Each year, Linda visits seven area cemeteries to ensure that deceased Auxiliary members are properly recognized with the American Legion Auxiliary bronze marker placed on their graves—a small but meaningful tribute that reflects her deep respect for those who served.
Outside of the Auxiliary, Linda has long been an active member of her local Lutheran church, where her spirit of service has also been felt.
Those who work alongside Linda know that her leadership style has always been one of humility. She leads not for recognition, but out of a sincere desire to serve. One newer member of the Auxiliary captured that spirit perfectly.
“I have only known Linda for a year as I became an ALA member last winter. However, in this brief time I have known her, she has a heart of gold which is obvious to all. She tirelessly puts the veterans in her community first while quietly leading the charge. Never expecting a thank you or any praise, just quietly putting their needs first. So thoughtful and kind, Linda is a true patriot who loves her community, the veterans, and the ALA. She is the first to arrive and the last to leave any event.” Those words reflect what so many in Unit 166 already know: Linda’s service has never been about titles or recognition. It has been about people—veterans, families, fellow Auxiliary members, and the community she cares so deeply about.
After 36 years as president and fifty-five years of membership, Linda Stone leaves behind more than a record of service. She leaves behind traditions that will continue, a stronger Auxiliary, and an example of what true patriotism and community leadership look like.
While she may be stepping down from her official role, the impact of Linda’s dedication will continue to be felt for many years to come.
Submitted by: Laura Boyer, Unit 166 President
