POST HISTORY
Victor Immanuel Rieck
7 March 1894 - 9 October 1918
Army Corporal Victor I. Rieck gave his life for his country in World War l. He was killed in action in France just a few weeks before the signing of the Armistice signaling the close of the war. The facts are not clear but the story is told he was aiding a wounded German soldier when he was shot by another. Corporal Rieck was one of the first soldiers from Utica to lose his life in this action so it was only fitting for the American Legion to name the local post in his honor. He now lies in peace across the street from the post.
In June of 1943 the first meeting of what was to be known as the Victor I. Rieck Post 351 was held at the home Major Rankin. In 1944 a permanent charter was granted with 16 charter members. In that year a Ladies Auxiliary was also formed. In July of 1945, property for a Legion home was purchased from Malow and Dunn with a $500 deposit. In May of 1946, ground was broken and blocks were laid. We held the first wedding in the "Fox Hole" in November of 1946 and in December our first meeting was held in our new home. On December, 29th, 1946 the cornerstone was laid. We erected a flag pole in 1947.
In 1954, what had been known as the "Fox Hole" began to blossom. A mortgage for $12,000 was secured and the main floor began. By September, 1954 the hall was completed with a hardwood dance floor that many felt was one of the best in the area. Dedication cerimonies were held on September 12th, 1954.
Note: This information was obtained from the Utica Public Library where they have a special file on Post 351 with dozens of newspaper clippings dating back to the 1940's.
Also, at the entrance to the Utica City Hall is a monument dedicated to the men and women of this community who gave up their lives that we may remain a free nation. The monument bears the name of Victor I. Rieck American Legion Post 351 who sponsored it.
