May 19, 2026 – Allenton, Wi – There was laughter, gratitude, and a few misty eyes as the Allenton American Legion Auxiliary Unit 483 celebrated its 75th anniversary and honored two women who helped start it all.
Charter members Audrey Rosbeck, 95, and Mary Jane Sternat, 102, were recognized during the celebration for their decades of dedication and service to veterans and the Allenton community.
Unit Vice President Donna Kauper reflected on the organization’s beginnings, noting the auxiliary officially became organized on March 31, 1951, under the leadership of President Cora Bowden.
“On March 31, 1951, with President Cora Bowden leading the auxiliary, the unit became organized by the National American Legion Auxiliary as Unit 483,” Kauper said.
Kauper explained Bowden’s daughter, Audrey Rosbeck, joined alongside fellow charter member Mary Jane Sternat in helping form the unit. In the early years, the auxiliary and legion post met upstairs in the old firehouse before later purchasing the former public schoolhouse on Railroad Street in the 1960s.
“We are so appreciative of all you, Audrey and Mary Jane, have done in organizing the auxiliary which benefits our veterans and continues on to this day,” Kauper said.
As part of the tribute, both women were presented with Quilts of Valor in recognition of their patriotism and years of service.
On a side note: The Allenton American Legion Auxiliary started in 1951. At that time Harry S. Truman was President of the United States, radio was the primary source of receiving information, and Allenton, the small community in Washington County, Wi, was centered on saw mills, grist mills, railroad, family and community.
