As communities across the nation observe Black History Month, the story of American Legion Haygood- Shephard Post 103 stands as a powerful local reminder of sacrifice, service, and perseverance. The history of Post 103 is deeply rooted in the legacy of African American veterans in Okmulgee, reflecting both military valor abroad and community leadership at home for nearly a century.
— A Post Born from Service & Determination Haygood-Shephard Post 103 was officially organized in 1926, when African American veterans of World War I gathered to form their own American Legion post. Historical accounts show that on Oct. 27, 1926, Black veterans met at Jackson Hall in Okmulgee to begin organizing what would become Post 103. The effort was supported by members of the Edwin K. White Post 10, who passed a resolution to sponsor the creation of a separate post for Black veterans during a time of racial segregation in the United States.
Eighteen veterans attended that first organizational meeting, including J.T. Ward, Will Smith, Vester Grissom, Henry Edwards, Richard Colbert, Sam Fulce, Charles Anderson and others, who worked together to establish a charter and submit their application to state headquarters. Once chartered, the new post selected its first officers, including:
• John T. Ward, Commander
• Dr. R.B. Taylor, Adjutant
• W.V. Simpkins, Finance Officer
• Punk Shealy, Service Officer
• Charlie Johnson, First Vice Commander
• Sherman Banks, Second Vice Commander
• Jessie Smith, Historian
• John J. King, Sergeant-at-Arms
• William Foster, Chaplain The post averaged approximately 75 members during its early decades, at times dropping to around 60 and in other years surpassing 100 members.
— Honoring the Legacy of Henry A. Haygood Post 103 was named in honor of Henry A. Haygood, a local Okmulgee resident who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War I. Haygood served in the 317th Engineer Regiment, part of the 92nd Division, a unit composed largely of African American soldiers from across the United States. Many of the non-commissioned officers in the unit were experienced cavalry soldiers from the 9th and 10th Cavalry, historically known as the Buffalo Soldiers.
Haygood died on July 31, 1918, while fighting in the region of Alsace-Lorraine, an area located between the Rhine River and the Vosges Mountains. The region had long been a point of conflict between France and Germany and played a significant role during World War I. Following the war, the territory was returned to France after being under German control since 1871.
By naming the post after Haygood, Okmulgee veterans ensured his sacrifice would remain permanently tied to the community and serve as inspiration for future generations.
— Expanding the Legacy After World War II Following World War II, the post expanded its tribute to fallen heroes. In 1946, the organization was renamed Haygood-Shephard Post 103 in honor of Alan B. Shephard, another Okmulgee serviceman who lost his life during wartime service.
Shephard served in the 578th Quartermaster Truck Company and earned several military honors, including:
• World War II Victory Medal
• American Campaign Medal
• Presidential Unit Citation (awarded to his unit)
• Good Conduct Medal Shephard’s name remains memorialized alongside other Okmulgee World War II veterans on the local veterans memorial.
— Strength Through Community Leadership Throughout its history, Post 103 embraced the American Legion’s mission of strengthening communities and supporting veterans and youth programs. The organization became deeply involved in civic, social and educational efforts throughout Okmulgee.
According to historical records, Post 103 worked to:
• Encourage students to remain in school and pursue higher education
• Sponsor Boy Scout troops
• Support youth athletic programs including baseball, softball, tennis and volleyball
• Promote child welfare programs
• Assist veterans in obtaining benefits and relief services
• Sponsor Memorial Day observances
• Participate in community improvement projects
• Provide financial assistance to organizations such as the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Community Chest, Boy Scouts and the Dunbar Band Members also promoted educational opportunities through public speaking events and the American Legion oratorical contest for youth, helping foster leadership and civic responsibility among young people.
— Dedicated Leaders & Lifelong Members
The success of Post 103 was built on strong leadership and long-standing member dedication. Some members served in leadership roles for decades, including W.V. Simpkins, who served 22 years as finance officer, and Dr. R.B. Taylor, who served 19 years as adjutant and one year as commander.
D.P. Lilly, another prominent member, became widely recognized for his rehabilitation work with veterans and youth programs, serving for 34 years as the post’s service officer and earning numerous local and state honors for his contributions.
— Cultural & Community Influence
Post 103 also contributed to the cultural life of Okmulgee. Historical records show the post sponsored entertainment events, including a minstrel show in 1941 as part of city festivities, reflecting the social traditions of that era.
Beyond entertainment, members remained active in community observances and military pride activities. Veterans connected to the post continued serving in the armed forces, reserve units and community leadership roles, often inspiring family members to follow similar paths of service.
— A Living Reflection of Black History
The creation and continued service of Haygood- Shephard Post 103 represents a broader story of African American military service and community leadership during periods when opportunities and recognition were often limited. Despite segregation and societal challenges, Black veterans in Okmulgee organized, built lasting institutions and made meaningful contributions to education, civic life and youth development.
During Black History Month, the story of Post 103 stands as a local reminder of resilience, patriotism and service. Generations of veterans connected to the post have demonstrated that military service extends beyond the battlefield into lifelong dedication to strengthening communities.
— Looking Toward the Future
While membership challenges have been noted in recent years, leaders and supporters continue to recognize the historical importance of Haygood-Shephard Post 103 and its role in preserving local military heritage. Efforts remain focused on encouraging younger veterans, including those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, to become involved and continue the legacy of service in Okmulgee County.
As Black History Month highlights the achievements and contributions of African Americans nationwide, the story of American Legion Haygood- Shephard Post 103 reminds Okmulgee residents that local history often reflects national progress. Through nearly a century of service, the post has honored fallen heroes, uplifted youth, supported veterans and strengthened the community – ensuring that the legacy of sacrifice and service continues for future generations.
