The Stuart G. Luginbuhl post of the American Legion in Mount Carmel was filled with the sounds of laughter and celebration Dec. 3 as Santa paid an early holiday visit to 90 children from across Clermont County. 

“It is a tradition the county American Legion posts have been engaged with for over 60 years,” said Don Chandler with the American Legion’s Milford post.  “The Legion’s nine posts work with schools in the county to identify children who are most in need.  We get wish lists from the kids and purchase the items; with Santa’s (Dave Brewer) help, the gifts are presented at the annual holiday party.”

The tradition began in 1945, when a wealthy local businessman donated money to the Legion to help make the holidays a little brighter for needy children.