EVANS CITY — Four long-time members of the borough's American Legion Post and a retiring priest are being honored for their service with the Legion.

Legion commander Dean McMillen said the post at a picnic Aug. 8 will honor three members for 50 years of service and another member for 60 years.

The Legion will also honor a priest who, despite being a lifetime member of another post, has always participated with the post in the borough.

McMillen said the Rev. William Ritzert will be recognized that day, in part because he is retiring after 30 years at St. Matthias Catholic Church on Main Street.

Even though he never belonged to the post, McMillen said, Ritzert has always been there for it.

"He's always been more than willing" McMillen said, noting that Ritzert is the only clergyman in the borough who served in the military.

The other members being honored are:

• Grant Burkert, 50 years

• Bud Wedge, 50 years

• Tom Donaldson, 50 years

• the late Mary C. Connelly, who was also known as "Cappy" Kinsey, 60 years.

McMillen said the post is honoring Connelly, who died recently, because she was so close to reaching the 60 year milestone.

Ritzert, 76, who said he is retiring because he has started to slow up, said he appreciates the recognition. He has enjoyed his years with the parish, where he has watched as children he baptized grew up and were later married in the church.

"This is your family," he said.

After his retirement, which is effective at the end of August, Ritzert plans to retire to his family's farm near Chicora.

McMillen said the members will receive a certificate from the state acknowledging their service.

"It's just nice they've been a member of our legion post for so long," he said.