Editor’s note: This is one in a series of stories detailing the history of the American Legion in Wausau, including highlights about the men and women of Post 10 as the organization celebrates its 100-year anniversary.

By David Stenklyft

Tamara Suchy was the first female Commander for Wausau Post 10, serving in that capacity from 2008-2009.

She was also a part of the largest female unit in Desert Storm, one of 400 women on the USS Yellowstone.

“I was a postal clerk in Desert Storm, and loved it,” Suchy said. “As you might expect, we were quite popular, as mail from home was so important.”

Suchy grew up in Edgar on a dairy farm. Her older brother enlisted in the Army and her father had been in the Navy. When her father learned an Army recruiter was coming to their home, Suchy said, he pulled an end run and invited a Navy recruiter too – without her knowledge. She enlisted in 1987, right after graduating from high school, and was sent to Orlando for Basic Training and specialized instruction.

Later, she shipped out to Norfolk, where she boarded the USS Yellowstone.

Now, she is encouraging younger veterans to join the American Legion to help other veterans and their families.

Among the Post 10 contributions are Legion Baseball, Honor Guard and Legion Camp. The organization has also helped with rent, food and clothes for veterans in need of assistance.

The Post is on a membership drive through the summer to boost membership numbers and help veterans and their families. There are 63 programs that assist with veteran issues.

The American Legion Post welcomes all military personnel serving the U.S. Their mission is to implement the goals, aspirations, dreams, peace and blessings for our country, friends and families. Membership is based on honorable service with any branch of the U.S. Armed forces during World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Lebanon/Grenada conflict from Aug. 24, 1082 to July 31, 1984, Operation Just Cause from Dec. 20, 1989 to Jan. 31, 1990, and Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, from Aug. 2, 1990 through today.

To learn more or to join Post 10, visit the organization’s membership page.