Inaugural Hall of Fame Class honored by Lennox Legion Baseball Saturday, June 27

The Lennox American Legion Brethost Burma Post 174 celebrated generations of baseball excellence Saturday, June 27, by inducting its inaugural Legion Baseball Hall of Fame class during a ceremony held between games of a Legion Baseball doubleheader.

The Hall of Fame was established to recognize the individuals and teams whose dedication, leadership and commitment that has helped build and sustain the Lennox American Legion Baseball program for generations of local athletes.

Members of the inaugural class included longtime coaches Larry Bendt and John Kirchner; longtime American Legion leaders Earl Van Ningen and Arlin Rops; standout player Marvin “Mike” Poppens; and the legendary 1953 Lennox Legion Baseball team.

Bendt and Kirchner were present to accept their Hall of Fame plaques, while family members accepted the honors on behalf of the late Earl Van Ningen, Arlin Rops and Marvin “Mike” Poppens.

Three members of the historic 1953 championship team were also in attendance for the ceremony. Cortland Carnes, Robert Jibben and Lloyd Stack accepted the team’s recognition.  

The 1953 roster included: Marvin “Mike” Poppens, Don Cramer, Ronald Hoffman, Marion Albers, Lloyd Stack, Cortland Carnes, Robert Straatmeyer, Ernie Albers, Verlyn Groen, James Stratmeyer, Bernard Brak, Robert Jibben, Charles Stratmeyer, George Courey, and Gus Parker. The team was coached by Howard Amen. 

The 1953 team remains one of the most celebrated squads in Lennox baseball history. In addition to winning the State B Legion Baseball Championship, the team defeated Class A champion Aberdeen to claim the overall South Dakota Legion Baseball State Championship.

The Hall of Fame ceremony served as an opportunity to recognize the countless hours of service given by coaches, volunteers, players and Legion members who helped establish a tradition that continues today.

The Hall of Fame plaques will be permanently displayed at the Lennox American Legion, preserving the legacy of the inaugural class and serving as a reminder of those whose commitment helped shape one of South Dakota’s longstanding Legion Baseball programs for future generations.