La Mesa’s American Legion Post 282 hosts hair-razing competition

American Legion Post 282 in La Mesa played host on Sunday, Feb. 9, to Legionnaires from around the county wide 22nd District of the Legion, who vied in the organization’s first-ever Chrome Dome Competition. Male entrants in the contest competed over which Legionnaire possesses the best-looking shaved head, as determined by vote of attendees for their favorite baldies. 

American Legion Post 282 in La Mesa played host on Sunday, Feb. 9, to Legionnaires from around the county wide 22nd District of the Legion, who vied in the organization’s first-ever Chrome Dome Competition. Male entrants in the contest competed over which Legionnaire possesses the best-looking shaved head, as determined by vote of attendees for their favorite baldies. 

Money earned from the event is slated for programs that District 22 supports on behalf of The American Legion, including the annual Stand Down offering services for homeless veterans and the monthly Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation programs for hospitalized veterans at the VA Medical Center in La Jolla.

Inspiration for the competition came from 2012-2013 District 22 Commander Rod Van Orden, now serving as the District’s “Junior Past Commander,” who had planned on scalp shaving to facilitate his skin cancer treatment. He issued a blanket challenge to any male Legionnaire willing to shave his head also, to compete in the combination fundraiser and cancer awareness event. 

Not to be left out or outdone, female Legionnaires entered the contest under the “Facial Grown” companion hair-raising competition, by sporting fake mustaches to compete over which lady appears most naturally fetching in a ‘stache.’

Military service, like many other lines of work, often involves extended periods of sun exposure, which renders individuals more susceptible to developing skin cancer. Residents of sunny East County, military veterans, and others who have spent long stretches of time in sunlight (and especially at midday) are advised by dermatologists to examine their skin frequently for any unusual growths, wounds that fail to heal, or discharges from moles. Periodic checks by dermatologists are also recommended.

First place was awarded to Sherry Hill, Adjutant at Chula Vista Post 434, followed by “People’s Choice” winner Desiree Herrera, District 22 2nd Vice Commander and Pacific Beach Post 552 Commander, taking second. 

Rounding out the final four were Van Orden, in third place, and Tony Stewart, District 22 1st Vice Commander and Chula Vista Post 434 Commander. The event brought in over $200 to support veterans in need.