For over a century, William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 has served the Crystal Lake community, supporting veterans and their families since its founding in 1919. As one of the first American Legion posts in the country, its commitment to service has remained strong and steady, evolving over the years to meet the changing needs of veterans. Today, Post 171 continues that mission by expanding outreach, increasing awareness of veteran issues, and embracing new ways to support mental health through many different programs.
Over the years, the post has strengthened its presence in the community through initiatives like the Be the ONE suicide prevention campaign, participation in local parades, and Wreaths Across America, which honors veterans killed in conflict. They’ve also played an active role in the county’s Suicide Prevention Task Force and regularly engage with the public through events like the Johnny Appleseed Festival and community expos. And they host coffee talks every Friday at 8:30am at The Other Side Café in Crystal Lake where all are welcome.
Through the years, the way wars are fought has changed and so has the way we connect with veterans. One of the most innovative programs Post 171 has introduced is E-Gaming, an effort to reach veterans through a familiar and engaging activity. The program is led by Army veteran and Program Outreach Liaison for Veterans Path to Hope, Josh Deron. The idea grew out of his own experience using video games to stay connected during and after military service. When deployed, troops often created makeshift gaming setups to unwind after long missions. Deron and a group of veterans brought that same sense of camaraderie to Crystal Lake, hosting gaming events for veterans and their families.
What started as a single event has expanded into a long-term support system for veterans struggling with isolation, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. The program is now part of Veterans Path to Hope Outdoors and the SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. In addition to gaming, Josh leads weekly hikes with veterans, helping them connect through nature while providing a safe space to talk and check in on each other.
For Josh, this mission is personal. Like many veterans, he struggled to adjust to civilian life after service, balancing his roles as a husband and father while dealing with the weight of his experiences. “When you come home, you hope you will just fit back into life, but it’s not that simple,” he says. “You miss the people who understand what you’ve been through, that’s why programs like this matter. They give veterans a reason to show up, and a way
to connect.”
Funding has been one of the biggest challenges. High-end gaming systems cost around $10,000 for four units. To make the program more affordable, Deron developed a cost-effective gaming case that includes everything needed for $1,500, which is much less than the $2,500 alternative used by other groups. These mobile units allow gaming to reach veterans beyond Post 171, expanding access throughout McHenry County and beyond.
The gaming systems are currently owned by Veterans Path to Hope, American Legion McHenry and other contributing organizations. Post 171 plays a key role in fundraising and advocacy, including the upcoming Raue Center Concert on May 3rd, which will help raise funds for more game cases and a planned gaming trailer to expand the program further.
Senior Vice Commander Bob Dorn sees the impact of these programs firsthand. "The gaming and coffee talks keep us out of the tavern," he jokes, but you can also sense the seriousness behind his statement. It’s about providing veterans with healthier alternatives, positive spaces where they can bond, share experiences, and find support without the risk of self-destructive habits. Charlie Morgan, commander of Legion 171 and another key figure in the veteran community, has been instrumental in connecting veterans to resources and helping grow these initiatives. His dedication, alongside that of Josh and others, continues to make a difference in the lives of those who have served.
The success of the gaming initiative shows what can happen when a community comes together. American Legion Post 171, Veterans Path to Hope, the Suicide Prevention Task Force, the Mental Health Board, Kiwanis, and other veteran organizations have worked side by side to make sure veterans get the support they need. Local businesses, civic groups like the Rotary and Lions Clubs, and media outlets such as STAR 105.5 and the Northwest Herald have helped spread the word, showing how much Crystal Lake cares about its veteran community.
Beyond gaming, the program highlights a larger goal: meeting veterans where they are. Many who might never attend a traditional Legion event feel comfortable in the gaming space, where they can connect and open up about their struggles in a way that feels natural.
William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 continues to adapt, finding new ways
to serve those who served. Whether through advocacy, gaming programs, outdoor activities, or suicide prevention efforts, the post remains dedicated to supporting veterans in every way possible. With a strong community behind it, the mission is clear: helping veterans and their families, no matter where they are on their journey.
As the years pass by, the way we fight wars has changed, and so has the way we connect with veterans.
Whether through advocacy, gaming programs, outdoor activities, or suicide prevention efforts, the post remains dedicated to supporting veterans in every way possible.
As the years pass by, the way we fight wars has changed, and so has the way we connect with veterans
Whether through advocacy, gaming programs, outdoor activities, or suicide prevention efforts, the post remains dedicated to supporting veterans in every way possible