On 25 March 1978, the Wilson Daily Times published this photo with a long caption about the groundbreaking ceremony for a new headquarters on New Bern Street for Henry Ellis Post 17 of the American Legion.

The veterans depicted are (front row):

• James C. Bess, post commander — Rev. Bess (1915-2002) was a World War II veteran.
• George C. Alexander, post adjutant — George Caswell Alexander (1911-1986) was a World War II veteran.
• E.L. Joyner, finance officer — Eddie Lee Joyner (1895-1989) was a World War I veteran.
• Bennie Sanders, “a World War I veteran who is one of the oldest members of the local post” — Bennie Saunders (1894-1980).

On the back row:

• Milton Lucas, member — Milton Lucas was a World War II veteran.
• Nelson Farmer, service officer — Nelson Thomas Farmer Jr. (1925-2005) was a World War II veteran.
• S.J. Satchell, membership chairman — Spencer J. Satchell Jr. (1910-1986) was a World War II veteran.
• Ernest Bridges, member — Ernest Bridgers (1921-2000) was a World War II veteran.
• Raleigh Williams, member — Raleigh Ferguson Williams (1909-1992) was a World War II veteran.