Leander J Kinchen American Legion Post 47
Welcome to the digital home of the American Legion Post 47 in Ponchatoula, LA.
While we work to build our new site, visit us on Facebook at Ponchatoula Post 47.
In Honor of Our Namesake: Leander J. Kinchen
American Legion Post 47 proudly bears the name of a true hometown hero, Corporal Leander J. Kinchen, who gave the ultimate sacrifice on the battlefields of Europe during World War I.
Born and raised in Louisiana, Leander answered the call to serve his country during one of the most brutal conflicts in human history. His military journey took him from the pine woods of Tangipahoa Parish to the Western Front in France. There, he fought bravely in the historic Meuse-Argonne Offensive—the largest and bloodiest operation of the war for the American Expeditionary Forces. It was during this fierce campaign to liberate Europe that Private Kinchen made the supreme sacrifice.
Today, he rests in eternal peace far from home, honored among thousands of his fallen brothers-in-arms at the Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery in Romagne-sous-Montfaucon, France.
Carrying the Torch of Freedom
Though he is laid to rest across the Atlantic, his legacy lives on right here in Ponchatoula. We chose his name for our Post to ensure that his courage, sacrifice, and memory are never forgotten by the community he left behind.
Every day at Post 47, we strive to honor Leander’s memory by dedicating ourselves to the four pillars of the American Legion: backing a strong national security, taking care of our fellow veterans, mentoring local youth, and promoting 100% Americanism.
“May we never forget that freedom is not free, and may the name of Leander J. Kinchen forever remind us of the cost.”
Post 47 Leadership
Brandon Phares
US Marine Corps
Commander
Joe Yargo
US
1st Vice Commander
Patti Hilbun
US Army
Adjutant & Treasurer
Upcoming Events
On December 19, 2026 at 11:00 am (CST), the Leander J Kinchen American Legion Post 47 will be helping to Remember and Honor our veterans by laying Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country's fallen heroes at the Ponchatoula Cemetery.
Please help us honor and remember as many fallen heroes as possible by sponsoring remembrance wreaths, volunteering on Wreaths Day, or inviting your family and friends to attend with you.
You can visit the Wreaths Across America Ponchatoula Page here to volunteer, sponsor a wreath, or learn more about our local effort.
Contact us
Address
500 E Pine St
Ponchatoula, LA 70454