Fire destroys American Legion post in Gilbert

GILBERT, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Areas of American Legion Post 39 are left as nothing more than a charred shell.

"This post is home," one man said.

And part of this home is ruined.

"We have used wheelchairs and walkers as different veterans need them," he said.

Hundreds of dollars of jewelry used for fundraisers was also burned in the flames.

"We also had a couple thousand dollars worth of toys for Christmas for kids program," the man said.

With over 800 veterans members at this post and close to 400 sons of the American Legion, for many, it is truly a home.

"Helping take them to their appointments in the VA system, helping take care of them, [in] some cases feed them," a man said.

The American Legion post also serves as a big help to the youth in the community.