After more than four months of rebuilding, Tampa Bay’s largest American Legion post is officially reopening following the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene.

American Legion Post 273, located just east of the 150th Avenue drawbridge leading to Madeira Beach, suffered severe flooding when the hurricane struck, with over three feet of water inundating the building. The storm wiped out the patio, kitchen, stage, bathrooms, and large community gathering space.

With more than 11,400 members, the post is the largest in the state. Its closure left a significant void in the community.

“This place is home for so many, and they haven’t been able to come home,” said Post Commander Anthony Torregrossa.

As soon as the waters receded, staff and volunteers sprang into action, removing damaged materials and launching a full-scale renovation. The post used emergency funds to continue paying staff, while a dedicated team—including servers, bartenders, and cooks—took on much of the renovation work themselves, assisted by contractors.

Community members also rallied together, raising funds and delivering meals to support those working long hours to restore the post. The total cost of the project, including a brand-new kitchen, ranged between $500,000 and $600,000.

During a special “thank you” celebration for volunteers on Wednesday, longtime patrons Diane O’Shaughnessy and Tori Tavel sat at the bar, smiling as they reunited with familiar faces.

“It’s overwhelming,” O’Shaughnessy said. “This place is special. Many of us don’t even know each other’s names, but we know the faces, and we cherish the time spent together.”

With renovations complete, Post 273 is ready to resume its mission of community support. Their full-time service officer is back on-site, assisting veterans with benefits, claims, and appeals.

“We had this dream, and now it’s a reality,” Torregrossa said. “I’m just so happy to see our people coming back.”

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