Civil War weaponry and supplies on display at the American Legion include a Union soldier’s kepi (hat), canteen and cartridge box, and an 1862 Springfield rifle and bayonet.
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American Legion Post 132
Tucked in the Orange Plaza is a goldmine of American military history and community service: American Legion Post 132. Founded in 1920, this post has been a cornerstone of veteran support and community engagement for more than a century, with Victor de la Rosa currently serving as Commander of the Post.
At the helm of the post’s historical preservation efforts is Francis “Frank” Cook, the historian and curator of the Military Museum. Established in 2010, the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts spanning from the Civil War to present day. Cook, a former six-year Army nurse turned civilian nurse for 41 years, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his role.
The museum’s chronological displays offer visitors a tangible connection to America’s military past. From Civil War-era medical instruments to World War I gas masks, and from D-Day beach sand to modern flight suits, each artifact tells a story. One of the most unique items is a rare Civil War hand grenade, showcasing the evolution of warfare technology.
Post 132’s rich history is evident in its “Wall of Heroes,” featuring photographs of local service members from World War I. These images, taken at a local studio, capture the solemn faces of young men and women preparing for the possibility of making the ultimate sacrifice.
The American Legion itself, founded in Paris, France in 1919 with early notable members such as Eisenhower, Truman and Patton, has been at the forefront of veteran advocacy for more than a century. Post 132 continues this tradition, supporting veterans of all eras and ensuring the mistakes of the past, such as the poor treatment of Vietnam veterans, are not repeated.
Showcased at the American Legion’s Military Museum are a World War II helmet and pineapple grenade, a Vietnam War helmet and grenade and a WWI helmet with Civil War grenade.
This photo shows items in the museum from America’s past enemies, including a WWII German paratrooper cap and hand grenade, and a Japanese helmet, pipe, sword and sheath.
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Today, the post is more than just a veterans’ organization. It’s a vibrant community hub, open to the public and hosting various events throughout the year. From “Legionnaires in the Kitchen” serving authentic military-style meals to Friday night steak dinners followed by the nationwide legion tradition of singing “God Bless America,” Post 132 offers something for everyone.
The building itself is a three-story structure, housing not only the museum but also meeting spaces and areas for social gatherings. It’s a place where the four legion “families” consisting of the Legionnaires, Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion and American Legion Riders, come together to continue serving America.
John Schutz is a Vietnam vet and the head of the “Riders” family (motorcycle enthusiasts).
“A lot of it is being here to help veterans—that’s what we’re about,” says Schutz. “It’s important that the post looks nice and presentable and inviting. We hold a lot of open houses and Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies.”
As Cook aptly puts it, “We are still serving America. That’s one of our mottos.”
This dedication to service, coupled with a commitment to preserving and sharing military history, makes American Legion Post 132 a true Orange County treasure.
American Legion Post
132 143 South Lemon St., Old Towne Orange, CA 92866 / 714-538-6311
