The N.C. American Legion Baseball Hall of Fame Banquet for 2016 was held recently at Harold B. Jarrett Post 342 in Salisbury.

This year’s inductees include Harry Agner of Post 342, Ronald Pugh of Post 45, Asheboro; Stephen Robert Walston of Post 13, Wilson; and Robert. T. Thomas, Post 23, Gastonia.

Legionnaires from around the state gathered to honor the four who have distinguished themselves in this classic youth program.

In addition to the inductees, four players received recognition as Players of the Year for their respective areas. Lee Poteat, who plays for Post 342, won Area III Player of the Year. Brandon Boone, who plays for Post 10 in Wilmington was Area II Player of the Year. Bailey Connell, who plays for Post 535 in Unionville was Area IV Player of the Year and Keaton Snethen, who plays for Post 423, Henrietta, was named Junior Player of the Year for Area IV.

The Rowan County Veterans Honor Guard posted and retrieved the colors for this event and Martha Corriher sang the National Anthem.

Some of the dignitaries attending included Department Commander David Shore, Department Adjutant Randy Cash, Department Judge Advocate and National Chairman Financial Commission Gaither Keener. Also attending were alternate NECman Patricia Harris, National Legislative Committee Chairman James Oxford and National Americanism Committeeman Mark Cauble.

About 200 friends and family members had a meal catered by Debbie Suggs. Following the meal, George McGovern, chaplain to the New York Yankees, addressed the audience with a speech directed at the youth present.

Bob Price is commander of Post 342.