THE AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY
We can’t wait to welcome you to Louisville in 2026. Named one of the “Best Places to Visit in America,” Bourbon City features one-of-a-kind attractions, a sizzling culinary scene and a booming Urban Bourbon Experience all wrapped within a unique brand of Southern charm. Before you get here, learn about Louisville’s “can’t miss” experiences at GoToLouisville.com.
On behalf of Louisville, I am honored to welcome you to our city for the 107th American Legion National Convention. We are proud to host this distinguished gathering of the American Legion Family and to extend our gratitude for your service and continued commitment to our nation. Your global reach and enduring legacy of advocacy, service and patriotism have strengthened communities across the United States and around the world.
Louisville stands ready to provide a welcoming and seamless experience for all attendees. While you are here, we invite you to explore our signature attractions. Tour the legendary Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby Museum, stroll the riverfront at Waterfront Park, and discover the craftsmanship behind America’s most iconic baseball bats at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. Experience our thriving Urban Bourbon Trail, visit the Muhammad Ali Center or wander through the Victorian charm of Old Louisville. Whatever your interests, I trust you will find Louisville to be a welcoming and memorable host city.
We are deeply grateful for your service to our country and for your continued leadership on behalf of America’s veterans, servicemembers and families. Welcome to Louisville.
Craig Greenberg Mayor, City of Louisville
On behalf of the Commonwealth, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Louisville for the 107th American Legion National Convention.
For more than 100 years, The American Legion has advocated for those who have served and protected this country. Your resources have made life better for generations of veterans and reflect the debt of gratitude this country owes to those who have served in the armed forces. Best wishes for a productive convention.
Andy Beshear Governor, State of Kentucky
On behalf of the Department of Kentucky, City of Louisville and Commonwealth of Kentucky, it is my distinct honor and pleasure to welcome you to our vibrant community for the 107th American Legion National Convention. The department is proud to host such a distinguished gathering, and we extend our warmest greetings to all delegates, veterans and guests attending this momentous event. Louisville has a rich tradition of patriotism and community spirit, and we are deeply grateful for the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the Legion. Your dedication to our nation’s veterans, your advocacy for American values and your commitment to strengthening our communities are truly commendable.
While you are here, we encourage you to explore our city’s many attractions; Louisville offers something for everyone. While you are here, please take time to visit some of our Legion posts. We hope you will take this opportunity to experience our hospitality and discover all that makes Louisville a special place.
As you convene to honor our achievements, discuss important issues and chart the future of The American Legion, please know that we stand with you in support and admiration. We are privileged to host you, and we are confident your time here will be both memorable and inspiring.
Welcome to Louisville, Ky., as we celebrate all the amazing work we have done to serve veterans, military, their families and our communities.
What a great time to strengthen the relationships between our American Legion Family entities; I hope you take some time to celebrate with people you may not yet know. I look forward to visiting with friends I have had for many years, as well as new friends I have made this past year. All departments welcomed me with open arms. The Legion Family representation during my visits was so exciting to experience.
I hope you take time to visit the city of Louisville and surrounding communities. There is so much to see and do. Please remember to remain Mission Driven, Family Focused during this convention and when you return home. Mission: it’s who we are, it’s what we do.
Thanks for the memories.
Ray Unit 71, Urbana, Ill.
This is a special year not just for The American Legion, but for the entire United States of America. On July 4, our nation celebrated 250 years of freedom. Freedom and liberty were the major causes for which the first Legionnaires fought in Europe during the Great War. The sacrifices of those veterans and the following generation were constantly in my thoughts as I represented the Legion during my visit to Normandy and other European battle sites in June. It was also a great honor to pay respects with Legion Family members during visits and observances at Pearl Harbor, Korea and Guam.
This has been a year of fulfillment of one of our longtime national resolutions. On Dec. 18, I visited the Oval Office and watched the president sign an executive order allowing the FDA to conduct research on the medical efficacy of cannabis. The Legion does not condone the recreational use of drugs, but we do support allowing veterans to have access to alternative therapies that can reduce anxiety, chronic pain, PTSD and conditions that can lead to suicide.
Shortly before our annual Washington Conference, America’s troops again answered our nation’s call in the Middle East. It is too early to predict how historians will view Operation Epic Fury, but we do know that our military servicemembers demonstrated extraordinary courage, and we solemnly vow to always have the back of those that are serving.
As I look back on my term, I’ll recall many significant highlights, including a special invitation to attend King Charles’ address to a joint session of Congress. While it is always an honor to represent the Legion Family on such occasions, the greatest memories will be of my visits to your departments and posts. This privilege allowed me to witness dedicated veterans and family members serving their communities with a passion and spirit of volunteerism that truly makes me proud to be a member of The American Legion.
Thank you all for your continued service to our country, communities and veterans. Let us all commit to making our gathering in Louisville outstanding and memorable.
Dan K. Wiley
Byron H. Mehl Post 23, Leavenworth, Kan.
For God and Country we associate ourselves together for the following purposes:
To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to maintain law and order; to foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism; to preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in all wars; to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation; to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses; to make right the master of might; to promote peace and good will on earth; to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy; to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.
TOP LEFT: National Commander Dan Wiley smiles during the trophy presentation to the Patriot Games winners at the Army-Navy Game Presented by USAA.
Photo by Jennifer Blohm
TOP RIGHT: Wiley speaks during the Student Veterans of America national convention.
Photo by Doug Hensley
MIDDLE LEFT: Wiley is nominated, elected and sworn in as national commander at the 2025 national convention in Tampa.
Photo by Jennifer Blohm
MIDDLE RIGHT: Wiley attends the Big Red One Turkey Run in Kansas.
Photo by Jeff Stoffer
BOTTOM LEFT: Wiley testifies before Congress about the legislative priorities of The American Legion during the Washington Conference.
Photo by Jeric Wilhelmsen
BOTTOM RIGHT: Wiley speaks during the 2025 Ye Steivos Play Day Dinner. Photo by Jennifer Blohm
TOP: addresses the Legion’s National Executive Committee during Fall Meetings at National Headquarters in Indaianapolis.
Photo by Jennifer Blohm
MIDDLE: Wiley hands petitions in support of the Major RIchard Star Act to a staffer at the office of Kansas Sen. Jerry Moran in Washington, D.C. Photo by Bob Rives
BOTTOM: Wiley hands out food and supplies to those in need in Antigua, Guatemala.
Photo by Doug Hensley
William “Bill” Moore President
Sidney Shouse Member
Department Commander Joe Garrett Member
Michael Leon Member
Richard Dallaire Member
Steve Ayling Badges & Packets
David King Distinguished Guests
Richard Gano Registration/Information
Michael E. Walton Chairman Illinois Charles E. Gannon Vice Chairman Maryland
P.
Consultant Colorado James Michael Rohan Consultant Wisconsin
North Dakota
Mark A. Gullion Nat’l Cmdr.’s Representative Indiana
Georgia
Charles E. Kvochick Ohio
A. Biggerstaff Texas
Larry J. Marcouillier Consultant Delaware
Dianne M. Boland Consultant Florida
Charles W. Goodin Consultant Missouri
Virginia
Michigan
Charles D. Aucoin Consultant Louisiana
Maryland
California
John A.
Advisory Board Iowa Michael J. Maxa Advisory Board Minnesota Lisa McPhee Advisory Board Massachusetts
Phil Youngblood NEC Liaison, Chairman Georgia
Dwight D. Lacy NEC Liaison Delaware
L. Shappell NEC Liaison Wisconsin
American Legion Magazine is getting a new look!
Stop by the American Legion Media & Communications booth in the Exhibit Hall throughout the week to pick up your copy of a prototype of the new design. New look launches in February.
Thank you for your service!
We believe in helping our communities prosper through more than just attentive advice – we volunteer, sponsor education, and dig in. That’s because, like The American Legion, we are our communities. We are neighbors first, and advisors second. Call us at 317.844.2399 to learn how our conscientious team can partner with you on financial solutions that are adaptive to your needs.
What a year it has been, and what a year is ahead of us, as we celebrate the 250th birthday of our country. Last year in Tampa, I was nominated for national commander by my 13-year-old son who has been a member since the day of his birth – one of the proudest moments of my life.
Thirty-seven visits later, I have seen so much excitement and positive energy everywhere I have visited, so many great things happening at the squadron level, and new squadrons being formed in so many detachments. We are incredibly strong. We are growing fast and continue to serve veterans and children with millions of volunteer hours and millions of dollars raised. We are bringing excitement through action and Fun With Purpose to every squadron and post throughout America.
We launched “Got One For The Legion,” a new program aiming to help The American Legion with its membership. Any Son who recruits a new Legionnaire is eligible for a unique, bright shirt that stands out in a crowd; I hope that over time we start to see a lot of them in the crowds at our meetings.
We’re promoting “victory gardens” for kids to build at any post that has a small yard or space to accommodate plants, even if in flower pots, to get kids off their phones, get their hands dirty and have healthy homegrown ingredients for their meals. So many programs, so many Sons on commissions or committees, all doing a great job and moving the ball on goals and milestones.
I have been blessed to be your national commander and blessed to be a proud member of Sons of The American Legion. Carry on for God and country with pride as America celebrates its 250th year as the greatest nation on Earth!
Bill Clancy III
Leonard H. Hawkins Squadron 156, City Island,
N.Y.
REGISTRATION FOR DELEGATES, ALTERNATES AND GUESTS
Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC), Hall A, Upper Concourse (National Staff Offices)
Wednesday, Aug. 26 – Friday, Aug. 28, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (subject to change)
Saturday, Aug. 29, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. (subject to change)
SAL TRAINING
KICC, L009, Lower Concourse Friday, Aug. 28
8 a.m. SAL Communications/Public Speaking
9 a.m. Squadron/Post Relationships
10 a.m. SAL Resolutions
11 a.m. SAL Effective Networking
SAL STAFF OFFICE
KICC, Hall A, Upper Concourse
Wednesday, Aug. 26 – Monday, Aug. 31, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Friday, Aug. 28
KICC, L011, Lower Concourse
8 a.m. Internal Affairs
9:30 a.m. Membership and Squadron Activities
11 a.m. Finance
KICC, L002, Lower Concourse
8 a.m. Children & Youth
9:30 a.m. Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation
11 a.m. Constitutional Amendments
KICC, L012, Lower Concourse
8 a.m. Americanism
9:30 a.m. Scrapbook/History Book Contest
11 a.m. Legislation & Rules
KICC, Ballroom C, Main Concourse 11 a.m. Credentials
PRE-CONVENTION NATIONAL
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
Friday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.
KICC, Ballroom C, Main Concourse
GENERAL SESSION – OPENING
Friday, Aug. 28, 1 p.m.
KICC, Ballroom C, Main Concourse
Call to Order
Salute to the Colors
Invocation
Pledge of Allegiance
Preamble to the Constitution of the Sons of The American Legion
Reading of the Convention Call
Roll Call
Opening Remarks
Welcome from Host Detachment
Salute to the Colors Recess
GENERAL SESSION
Saturday, Aug. 29, 9 a.m.
Call to Order
Salute to the Colors Invocation
Pledge of Allegiance Roll Call
Legislative and Rules Committee Report
Final Report of the National Commander
First Report of Credentials Committee
Membership and Squadron Activities Committee Report and Awards
Child Well-Being Foundation Committee Awards
Presentation of National History Book Contest Awards
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Committee Report and Awards
Internal Affairs Commission Report
Americanism Commission Report and Awards
Presentation of Community Service Scrapbook Awards
Children & Youth Committee Report and Awards
Veterans Education & Employment Committee Report
National Vice Commanders Reports
Legislative and Rules Committee Report
Finance Committee Report
Constitution and By-Laws Committee Report
Final Report of Credentials Committee
Recess
SAL YOUTH 250
Saturday, Aug. 29
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
KICC, L002, Lower Concourse
GENERAL SESSION
Sunday, Aug. 30, 8 a.m. Call to Order
Salute to the Colors Invocation
Pledge of Allegiance Roll Call
Special Order of Business Nominations and Elections of Sons of The American Legion National Officers
National Commander
National Vice Commanders (5)
(10:30 a.m.: recess for National Convention Memorial Service – KICC, Hall D, Upper Concourse)
12:30 p.m. (reconvene)
Salute to the Colors
Installation of Newly Elected Officers Benediction
Retirement of Colors
Final Adjournment
POST-CONVENTION NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
Sunday, Aug. 30, 2 p.m.
KICC, Ballroom C, Main Concourse
SAL TRANSITION MEETING
Monday, Aug. 31, 8 – 10 a.m.
KICC, L003, Lower Concourse (National chairmen and officers only)
National convention agenda subject to change without notice
National Commander
William “Bill” Clancy III, New York
National Adjutant
Anthony W. Wright, Pennsylvania
National Vice Commanders
Christopher Casey, Nebraska
Bryan Hine, Tennessee
Steve Honigfort, Ohio
C. Frank Meraz Jr., California
Jeremy Revell, Vermont
National Assistant Adjutant Emeritus
Harold Thompson Jr., Nebraska
James “Ed” Sheubrooks, Florida
National Assistant Adjutants
Seth Rippe, Nebraska
Robert Avery, New York
1972 Robert Faust † , California
1973
James R. Hartman†, Maryland
1974 G regory D. Reis, Illinois
1975 G rant M. Jamieson, Michigan
1976 Charles E. Gannon, Maryland
1977 John M. Sherrard, California
1978 Richard J. Kepler†, Florida
1979 Ernest Wilson†, New Jersey
1980 Donald L. Willson†, Pennsylvania
1981 David P. Stephens, Indiana
1982 Christopher R. Cerullo, New York
1983 Fred L. Hartline Sr., Ohio
1984 Woodrow L. Mudge†, Colorado
1985 Royce Doucet † , Louisiana
1986 Douglas P. Bible, Minnesota
1987 Richard L. League, Maryland
1988 David R. Faust, Wisconsin
1989 Charles R. Belles†, Virginia
1990 Robert A. Worrel, Indiana
1991 Eugene L. Sacco, California
1992
Charles B. Rigsby†, Michigan
1993 Roland D. Matteson†, Arizona
1994 Joseph M. Mayne, Minnesota
1995 John T. Dietz†, Kentucky
1996 Jack E. Jordan, Texas
1997 W illiam E. Matoska, Maryland
1998 B yron J. Robichaux, Louisiana
1967 Michael K. Seaton, California
1968 Robert McBride, Ohio
1969-1970 J.R. Stillwell, Illinois
1971 John Smolinsky, Massachusetts
Scott Thornton, Ohio
National Chaplain
David Jolly, New York
National Historian
Timothy Van Patten II, New York
National Parliamentarian
Gary Leach, California
National Sergeant-at-Arms
Greg Falco, New York
National Assistant Sergeants-at-Arms
Brian Waters, Pennsylvania
Tom Arista, Texas
Cliff Barker, Iowa
National Commander’s Aide
Tim Brower, New York
1999
Richard L. Cook, Oklahoma 2000
Kevin N. Winkelmann, Texas
Clifford A. Smith, Massachusetts
Steve C. Laws†, North Carolina 2003 Neal C. Warnken, Kansas
2004 Michael J. Deacon, Iowa
2005 W illiam L. Sparwasser, Maryland
2006
Earl R. Ruttkofsky, Michigan
2007 Raymond P. Giehll Jr., Indiana
2008 Thomas E. Cisna, Illinois
2009 Mark E. Arneson, Georgia
2009 Patrick J. Shea†, Ohio (honorary)
2010
2011
David L. Dew, Texas
James K. Roberts III, Florida
2012 Christopher J. Huntzinger†, Pennsylvania
2013 Joseph W. Gladden, Maryland
2014 Michael W. Moss, Colorado
2015 Kevin L. Collier, Alaska
2016 Jeff C. Frain, Arizona
2017 Danny J. Smith, Nebraska
2018 G reg K. “Doc” Gibbs, New York
2019-2020 Clint D. Bolt, Virginia
2021 Michael C. Fox, California
2022 Christopher A. Carlton, Indiana
2023
Donald L. “JR” Hall Jr., Maryland
2024 Joseph Navarreté, New Mexico
2016
Brian J. O’Hearne, Massachusetts
2021 Joseph Paviglianti, New York
HONORARY NATIONAL COMMANDER
2009 Patrick J. Shea†, Ohio
The national American Legion Auxiliary was honored to sponsor its first Lone Eagle Honor Flight for female veterans.
Mission Driven, Family Focused – the overarching priority of the American Legion Auxiliary’s (ALA) dedication to Service Not Self throughout the 2025-2026 administrative year. Across the nation, many examples showed how the ALA –with the American Legion Family – can and will show up for our communities, veterans, military and their families.
For the first time, the national ALA sponsored a Lone Eagle Honor Flight to put in action our core value of serving and honoring veterans.
Slightly different from a traditional Honor Flight where veterans arrive in Washington, D.C., and leave on the same plane, a Lone Eagle Honor Flight ensures all eligible veterans can participate in the experience regardless of their geographic location.
What made this trip special and historic? It was for female veterans who served during the Korean and Vietnam wars. Veterans experienced a day of honor that provided a
long-awaited acknowledgment of their service and sacrifice as both a veteran and a woman.
To learn more about the engaging stories of the veterans who attended the Lone Eagle Honor Flight, visit the ALA blog at www.alaforveterans.org/blog, read the 2026 August issue of Auxiliary magazine at www.alaforveterans.org/magazine, and follow our social media @ALAforVeterans
American Legion Family and community members nationwide participated in the ALA’s first National Poppy Day® Virtual 5K. All through May, 5K-ers walked, ran, swam, biked, etc., to get to the 3.1 miles.
Beyond being a fun activity and strengthening bonds for those who participated together, the virtual 5K shined more light on the poppy and its significance to honor the fallen and support the living who have worn our nation’s uniform. The goal was for more people throughout the country to understand the importance of the red flower and why it’s
distributed by Legion Family members around Memorial Day and Veterans Day each year.
Social media, particularly the American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Program Facebook group, helped digitally share the importance of the poppy. Participants were encouraged to share and post their 5K experience in the group.
Once individuals finished their 5K, a Certification of Completion was sent, and the first 700 registrants also received medals. The 2026 National Poppy Day® Virtual 5K was a huge success, and plans are already in progress for 2027.
Follow the ALA’s socials @ALAforVeterans to join the next virtual 5K.
To be truly Mission Driven, Family Focused, all aspects of the American Legion Family must be utilized and recognized.
From hosting American Legion Family Day events on the last Saturday of April to having overlapping memberships, Auxiliary members exemplified how a unified family can make an undeniable impact.
Nationwide, posts, units, squadrons and chapters teamed together to support veterans, military, their families and communities. As the saying goes, many hands make light work, and the American Legion Family is evidence of that.
The American Legion Family sentiment extended to youth members as well.
Juniors and young Sons of The American Legion attended and learned together at national Junior meetings throughout the year – a tradition that will move forward for the upcoming 2026-2027 administrative year.
Along with national meetings on the grassroots level, Juniors and young Sons served Legion Family missions in various ways.
Through the ALA Junior Activities Patch Program, Juniors and young Sons got to engage and have a hands-on impact with ALA programs like Poppy, Leadership, Americanism and many more.
This year, 2,015 patches were earned, representing 32 departments.
For the Spirit of Youth, 55 patches were rewarded throughout 12 departments, with our dedicated Juniors and young Sons raising $2,600 for the scholarship.
The Children of Warriors National Presidents’ Scholarship had 33 patches from 13 departments, with $1,788 awarded.
Juniors and Sons from pre-K (age 3) all the way to 12th grade can have their efforts recognized and rewarded through this program. Go to www.alaforveterans.org/juniors to learn more about the possibilities available for youth.
Leadership and mentoring are incredibly important for the future of the American Legion Auxiliary as members pass down their knowledge on how to move the mission forward. This is true for all levels of the organization, from unit to national.
Sharing leadership advice – ranging from how to run a meeting to working through difficult topics to successful mission outreach ideas – can benefit the next group of leaders to flourish and continue a mindset of veterans, military and their families first.
It’s important to weave mentorship into the fabric of the American Legion Auxiliary so it becomes standard practice for the next person in line. Success benefits everyone and ensures smooth transitions.
The national ALA increased its education and training materials in 2025-2026:
• The Leadership Committee presented an ALA Academy webinar about four leadership styles: autocratic, democratic, transformational and servant. What’s your style? Watch the webinar recording at www.alaforveterans.org/ala-academy to learn more.
• The national Public Relations and Leadership committees utilized a new e-newsletter to be distributed to unit presidents. If a unit has their current president’s email in ALAMIS (the ALA’s management information system/member database), they will receive the quarterly newsletter.
ABOVE: Honor Flight veterans were part of the wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery during their day of honor.
TOP ROW: A veteran is all smiles as she’s recognized for her military service during the Honor Flight; American Legion Family members and Auxiliary National President Pam Ray welcome Honor Flight veterans back to their hotel.
SECOND ROW: Veterans tour war memorials throughout the day and talk with visiting youth about their experience as veterans.
THIRD ROW: Juniors and young Sons of The American Legion participate in 2025-2026 national Junior meeting activities.
FOURTH ROW: A group shot of national Junior meeting participants; National Headquarters Executive Director Ben Hendricks.
BOTTOM ROW: American Legion Family and community members nationwide participate in the inaugural National Poppy Day® Virtual 5K.
“This focus is on communication down to the unit, where the magic and mission happen at the grassroots level,” said National President Pam Ray. “If
don’t tell members what they need, they don’t know.
rely on
chairs heavily, but we felt we needed to try something on the national level for that to happen.”
American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters named a new executive director to lead its external operations and the National Headquarters staff.
Ben Hendricks has spent more than 25 years leading marketing and communications efforts for nonprofits, agencies and Fortune 500 companies. Most recently, he served as chief marketing and communications officer for Kiwanis International, where he guided a global team and oversaw five of the organization’s six best membership years in more than two decades, including its first year of membership growth since 2002.
Hendricks’ career has included everything from launching national social responsibility campaigns to starting and selling his own PR agency. With both an MBA and a master’s in journalism, Hendricks combines strategic thinking with a love of storytelling. He’s excited to partner with the board and staff to strengthen the organization and grow its impact.
The American Legion Auxiliary’s Public Spirit Award recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations for contributions that positively impact communities through service to our veterans, military and their families.
The 2026 ALA Public Spirit Award will be awarded to Honor Flight Network at the Auxiliary’s national convention in August.
Honor Flight Network is a nonprofit organization founded in 2005 and comprises about 130 independent hubs across the country with a common goal: to honor veterans from World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War by providing an allexpenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., to visit their memorials, honor their service and provide them the recognition they deserve.
The ALA and Honor Flight Network entered a formal partnership in 2021 to support our mission of celebrating America’s veterans by inviting them to partake in a special day of honor in Washington. The official collaboration between our organizations allows ALA units and departments to directly donate funds that are generated from the distribution of our poppy.
ABOVE: Veterans and guardians arrive at the airport for their Honor Flight day of memorial tours.
ALA community-level units regularly participate in Honor Flight events by acting as guardians, writing letters for mail call, and organizing send-off and welcome-home ceremonies. The ALA’s most recent involvement on the national level surrounds the sponsorship of the April 2026 Lone Eagle Honor Flight for women veterans.
Honor Flight is one of the ALA’s three major national mission outreach activities where Poppy Funds can be used. First, money may be donated directly to Honor Flight hubs or to the Honor Flight Lone Eagle program. Second, funds may be used for any veteran and guardian items needed for a successful flight by donating directly to Honor Flight Inc. The last way to utilize Poppy Funds to support Honor Flight is by purchasing specific items needed.
After learning about Honor Flight in 2010, ALA National President Pam Ray took her father, an Army veteran, on a flight that truly impacted both of their lives. Ray has been a passionate advocate of Honor Flight’s mission since, and her genuine connection to Honor Flight inspired her to lead the national Auxiliary in sponsoring the all-female veteran Lone Eagle Honor Flight.
While almost every state has an Honor Flight hub and some have more than one, not every region has a local hub. That’s where Lone Eagle Honor Flight fills the gaps, to make certain all eligible veterans are able to be part of an Honor Flight regardless of their geographic location. Additionally, the Lone Eagle TLC (“Their Last Chance”) program serves terminally ill veterans of any service era who have less than one year to live.
See more stories and photos from the ALA-sponsored flight on our socials @ALAforVeterans
All information is subject to change.
National Headquarters Office
Hall A, Kentucky International Convention Center
General Convention Sessions
Hall C & E, Kentucky International Convention Center
National Convention Chair’s Office
Hall A, Kentucky International Convention Center
Mailroom
Hall A, Kentucky International Convention Center
ALA National Headquarters Hotel Galt House
American Legion Auxiliary meetings will be held at the Kentucky International Convention Center. Please check the ALA website for the final convention agenda, or scan the QR code at right. (All times Eastern.)
SATURDAY, AUG. 29
9 - 11 a.m.
National Executive Committee Meeting
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Pre-Convention Committee Meetings: Credentials; Rules; Resolutions
1:30 - 3:15 p.m.
Pre-Convention Committee Meeting: Constitution & Bylaws
3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Division Caucuses
SUNDAY, AUG. 30
11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Patriotic Memorial Service
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Department Pages Meeting
MONDAY, AUG. 31
8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Convention Session
1:30 - 3 p.m. Convention Breakouts (Pre-registration required)
TUESDAY, SEPT. 1
8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Convention Session
6:30 p.m.
American Legion National Commander’s Banquet
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 2
8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Convention Session
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Installation of 2026-2027 National Officers
7 p.m.
ALA States Dinner
THURSDAY, SEPT. 3
7:30 a.m.
2026-2027 National Executive Committee Orientation
8:45 a.m.
National Executive Committee Meeting
1. The Chair may deviate from the printed program when necessary or expedient.
2. The Credentials Committee shall report at such times as directed by the Chair.
3. The audience shall remain seated during the business of the Convention. Doors will remain open unless noise or distractions interfere with the conducting of business. Persons leaving the Convention Hall during balloting, elections or speaker presentations will not be allowed to re-enter the Convention Hall until the balloting or election is completed, or the guest speaker has concluded his/her presentation. Delegates may leave or enter the National Convention Hall without an escort.
4. Smoking is not permitted. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted. All electronic communication devices shall be turned off or silenced.
5. Admission to the business sessions at the National Convention shall be restricted to those persons displaying the official Convention badge or other acceptable official credentials or who are under the age of twelve (12) years.
6. Only authorized photographers shall be permitted on stage during the Convention sessions.
7. The National President shall appoint a Minutes Approval Committee to approve the National Convention Minutes.
8. There shall be no public presentation of gifts during National Convention except by prearrangement with the National President.
9. There will be no selling of goods nor pledging or collecting of donations, money or otherwise, in the convention business meeting hall without the prior approval of the National President.
10. The Chairman of each Department delegation shall be charged with the responsibility of ensuring that only accredited delegates wearing official Convention badges are seated with their delegation. Chairmen of special or standing committees required to report at the National Convention are permitted to be seated with the delegate body. If a delegate is absent from a meeting, an alternate delegate shall take the delegate’s place.
11. Only National Committee Chairmen and voting delegates of the Convention may make motions and address the National Convention in debate. To address the Convention, the voting delegate shall rise and (1) proceed to a microphone, (2) address the Chair, (3) wait to be recognized by the Chair and (4) upon being recognized by the Chair shall state their name and Department.
12. All main motions, resolutions and amendments from the floor shall be presented in writing immediately to the Chair on the motion forms provided, signed by the person making the motion. The completed motion form is then to be handed to the nearest Presidential Page for immediate delivery to the Chair.
13. Debate on any question shall be limited to two minutes. No delegate may address the Convention a second time on the
same question until all delegates who desire to speak on the topic have spoken. During debate, delegates, alternates and guests are to remain seated within their own delegation or assigned seating area unless they are approaching the microphone, completing a motion form or entering or exiting the general session.
14. Pages may deliver messages to the stage and to other delegations at any time.
15. Each delegate shall be entitled to one vote. The vote of any delegate absent and not represented by an alternate may be cast with the majority of the delegates present from the delegate’s Department, in accordance with the current National Constitution, Bylaws and Standing Rules.
16. Voting shall be by voice vote or by an electronic voting device, except when the Chair deems it necessary to use some other method. Voting by electronic voting device shall be deemed to be a division of the assembly.
17. Packets containing electronic voting devices shall be provided for each Department. Electronic voting devices shall not be removed from the National Convention Hall. Each Department’s Delegation Chairman or Delegation Secretary shall sign for the electronic voting packets as instructed. Departments will be charged $150 for each device not returned each day. Inside each voting packet shall be:
a. One certification sheet, which shall specify the number of votes to be cast as certified by the Credentials Chairman;
b. An equal number of electronic voting devices as stated on the certification sheet.
18. When the Chair deems paper ballots are to be used, a ballot envelope shall be provided for each Department. Placed inside each envelope shall be:
a. One certification sheet, which shall specify the number of votes to be cast as certified by the Credentials Chairman;
b. An equal number of ballots as stated on the certification sheet.
19. If and when a paper ballot is used, each Department’s Delegation Chairman shall:
a. Appoint two delegates to assist in counting the number of votes cast;
b. Distribute a ballot to each voting delegate;
c. Enter onto the certification sheet the total number of votes cast, plus the absentee votes, witnessed by the assistants;
d. Place the certification sheet and all the ballots in the ballot envelope;
e. Remove the name of the Department from the ballot envelope;
f. Return the ballot envelope as instructed.
20. The National President shall appoint an Election and Tally Committee.
21. Nomination of candidates for National Division Vice President shall be held prior to the convening of the National
Convention at the Division caucuses held on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Nominations from the convention floor for National Division Vice President shall not be permitted.
22. Nomination of candidates for the office of National President, National Vice President, National Chaplain and National Historian shall be made from the convention floor on Wednesday.
23. Nominating speeches shall be limited to two minutes for each candidate except for the candidate(s) for National President who will be allowed four minutes. There shall be no seconding speeches.
24. Following nominating speeches for national officers on Wednesday, each of the nominees for National President, National Vice President, National Chaplain and National Historian shall be introduced to the National Convention by the Auxiliary member making the nomination, said introduction to be only by name and Department affiliation. In response to the introduction, the nominee shall be allowed a maximum of two minutes for remarks.
25. Election of national officers shall be held on Wednesday. When there is but one candidate for any office, the nominee may be elected by voice. When there is more than one candidate for a national office, the election shall be by paper or electronic ballot, as determined by the presiding officer. A majority of votes cast shall elect each officer. When no candidate receives a majority of votes on the first ballot, a second ballot shall be taken between the candidates receiving the two highest numbers of votes, with the candidate receiving the most votes on the second ballot being elected.
26. National Convention Parliamentarian and designated NHQ staff are authorized to correct article and section designations, punctuation and cross-references and to make such technical, grammatical, formatting and conforming changes as may be necessary to reflect the intent of the voting delegates.
27. These rules may be amended during the Convention by a two-thirds vote.
Note: The following are provisions of the American Legion Auxiliary National Constitution, Bylaws and Standing Rules that relate to amendments and resolutions. As such, they are not part of the National Convention Standing Rules but are included for convenient reference and edification of the National Convention body.
The ALA Constitution and Bylaws may be amended at any National Convention by a two-thirds vote of the National Convention delegates, provided that the proposed amendments shall have been submitted through the National Secretary to the Departments and members of the National Executive Committee by distributing same to them at least twenty (20) days prior to the convening of the next National Convention. Departments shall be responsible for distributing the proposed amendments to their delegates to the National Convention.
Amendments proposed after the 20-day distribution date may be adopted by a two-thirds vote of the National Convention delegates, provided they have been read at one session of the National Convention prior to taking the vote.
An amendment not having been previously read or distributed as stated above may be adopted by the unanimous vote of the National Convention delegates.
Convention Chair
Doris Schutz
Convention Vice Chair
Wynella Bethards
Local Pages Chair
Bette Gies
Local Pages Vice Chair
Sharon Locke
Mailroom Chair
Patsy Klein
Mailroom Vice Chair
Anne Christine Witten
National President Driver
Elaine Pursell
Credentials Chair
Kristen Hensley
Rules Chair
Marsha Haag
Resolutions Chair
Linda Oakley
Personal Pages
Kathy Cisna
Patti Williamson
Robin Monserud
Doreen Gallagher
Distinguished Guests Committee
Vickie Koutz, Chair
Carlene Ashworth, Member
Mary Davis, Member
Nov. 14: Omaha, Neb.*
Jan. 30: Albany, N.Y.*
Jan. 30: Springfield, Ill.
Feb. 6: Atlanta, Ga.
Feb. 6: Las Vegas, Nev.*
Learn more about serving the American Legion Auxiliary’s mission while networking with fellow members! All cities will include a national Junior meeting. Registration is open Sept. 2. *These events will be held with The American Legion National Regional Information Conference and the Sons of The American Legion Regional Meeting.
As contained in the “Uniform Code of Procedure for the Organization of National Conventions of The American Legion,” the following rules of convention are authorized under Article V, Section 6, of the National Constitution of The American Legion:
1. Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the authority on parliamentary procedure, with the following modifications set forth herein.
2. Delegates desiring to make a motion or address the National Convention shall rise, address the chair as appropriate, and state their name and the name of their department before proceeding.
3. Debate shall be limited to five minutes for each speaker.
4. Debate on any one subject presented to the National Convention shall be limited to two hours except under such special rule as the National Convention shall adopt prior to debate.
5. Only two delegates from any one delegation shall be permitted the floor on any one question. Where disagreement exists within a delegation, one delegate shall be permitted to speak on each side of the question. Upon a division of the question, however, this rule shall be applied separately for each division.
6. The floor shall be permitted only once to any individual delegate on any one question, except by a two-thirds vote of the National Convention. Chairmen of convention committees may speak as frequently as may be necessary in connection with the reports of their committees. The presiding officer shall not entertain any motion which will curtail further debate without affording the committee chairman an opportunity to make the final statement of the debate.
7. Decisions on rules of debate or parliamentary order by the presiding officer may be subject to appeal by any two delegates under a point of order. Such appeal shall take precedence over any pending questions and shall be decided forthwith. An appeal from the decision of the chair shall be put to the National Convention on the question: “Shall the chair be sustained?”
8. When the poll of any department delegation is demanded by a delegate of such department, the National Convention secretary shall poll the vote without discussion of the question being voted upon.
9. On the roll calls, each delegation chairman shall poll their delegation on
the floor and announce its vote.
10. A delegation secretary, if not an accredited delegate or alternate, shall be seated with the secretary’s delegation.
11. Past national commanders’ votes shall be cast with their delegations.
12. Only accredited delegates or their alternates shall participate, directly or indirectly, in a viva voce vote on any subject before the National Convention.
13. Department delegations may arrive at a vote in such manner as they choose, but shall announce it in terms of full units and not in terms of a fractional part of a vote. The vote of any delegate absent and not represented by an alternate shall be cast by the majority of the delegates present from the department.
14. There shall be no unit rule of voting.
15. Voting shall be by acclamation, except when a roll call is demanded by the chairmen of at least three departments. Election of national officers shall be by roll call.
16. In the event a department has not provided the method by which alternates shall be designated to serve in the place of absent delegates, the chairman of the delegation shall make such designation.
17. Prior to the election of national officers, the national commander shall appoint, subject to approval of the National Convention, a judge of election and such number of tellers as deemed necessary, provided that the total tellers so appointed shall be an odd number. In a contested election, candidates going to the ballot shall each be entitled to one teller of their choice.
18. Nominations for national officers shall be from the floor on roll call of the departments alphabetically arranged. Each department may present as many candidates as it chooses.
19. Nominating speeches for national officers shall be limited to five minutes each. Not more than two seconding speeches shall be made for any candidate, and said speeches shall be limited to three minutes.
20. When more than two candidates are nominated for any office, balloting shall continue until one candidate receives a majority of the votes of the National Convention, except in the election of national vice commanders.
21. In a contested election for national vice commanders, balloting shall continue until (a) majorities and (b) pluralities are established for one or more candidates under the following provisions: If, on any ballot taken, less than five candidates
receive the necessary majority to elect, the candidate or candidates receiving a majority vote shall be declared elected and a new ballot shall be taken for the remaining number of places to be filled. The candidate receiving the lowest number of votes on the preceding ballot shall be disqualified. Except, should two candidates remain to fill one place, a new ballot shall be taken.
22. The National Convention will nominate and elect a national commander, and five national vice commanders, in this sequence.
23. At the conclusion of balloting on national vice commanders, each department delegation chairman shall deliver a written ballot to the tellers. Such ballots shall be in the hands of the tellers before communication is made to the national commander for announcement of the results.
24. Those recognized by the national commander shall be entitled to a respectful hearing, and the chair shall have the authority to clear the gallery or the floor or have the sergeants-at-arms escort from the National Convention anyone creating a disturbance or interfering with orderly procedure.
25. None of the above rules shall be construed as preventing an alternate delegate from serving on a National Convention committee.
26. The consent of two-thirds of the voting strength of the National Convention is necessary for suspension of the rules of the National Convention.
27. Any amendment to any resolution or report originating on the floor shall be presented in writing and transmitted to the presiding officer at the time of the introduction of such amendment.
28. Special rules applying to specific issues or order of business shall be written and presented to the National Convention by the convention committee on Credentials & Rules for adoption by majority vote at least one hour before such issue, or order, is to be considered unless such rule is agreed to by unanimous consent of the final session. Special rules shall prevail only in the National Convention adopting them. Any delegate may apply for a special rule to the convention committee on Credentials & Rules or may appeal to the National Convention for such special rule provided the rule be presented in writing, be read once from the platform, and shall lay upon the table at least one hour before the vote thereon is taken.
Distinguished Service Medal
For more than 170 years, the association has faithfully maintained, restored and protected George Washington’s home and surrounding estate in Virginia without reliance on federal funding, fostering a deeper understanding of Washington and the founding principles of the United States.
Patriot Award
Moran, chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, has represented Kansas in that body since 2011, and in the House for 14 years before that. Throughout, he has prioritized the quality of life of veterans across the country. He is a member of Sons of The American Legion Squadron 173 in Hays.
James V. Day “Good Guy” Award
Henry, a Kentucky native, is a former commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs, founder of the Heather French Foundation for Veterans as the daughter of a disabled Vietnam War veteran, an author and a designer. She served as Miss America 2000.
Firefighter of the Year Award
Woodward began his career with the Sidney (Ohio) Department of Fire and Emergency Services in 2018, and has striven to make its programs and systems more efficient and effective. He served 12 years in the Ohio Army National Guard as a combat medic, deploying to Afghanistan in 2011-2012.
Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award
Wiesner is entering her 24th year with the Two Rivers (Wis.) Police Department. She is passionate about violent-incident response and training citizens to enhance their chances of surviving one, as well as peer-support strategies for mental health.
Opening Session Speaker
Also known as the “Wingman,” Waldman is a leadership speaker, executive coach and author. He is also an Air Force Academy graduate and highly experienced combat veteran with over 2,650 flight hours and 65 combat missions, having flown in Iraq enforcing the no-fly zone and in Yugoslavia during Operation Allied Force in 1999.
Julet Hetzel 2026 National Oratorical Contest Champion Colorado Springs, Colo.
Alexis McCullough 2026 Eagle Scout of the Year Bourbonnais, Ill.
Tylar Hanley 2025 Legion Baseball All-Academic Team Captain Export, Pa.
The 2026 American Legion Boys Nation president, and Junior Shooting Sports Precision and Sporter champions, will be announced at the convention.
The Spirit of Service Award is presented to outstanding military professionals in six service branches and the National Guard who are actively committed to volunteer community service during their off-duty hours. Each servicemember is selected by their command office. The winners will receive trophies from National Commander Dan K. Wiley, as well as one-year memberships in The American Legion.
Marine Science
Zachary
Sgt.
Culinary Specialist 2nd Class (SW)
Brianna
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
DOWNLOAD THE NATIONAL CONVENTION APP
KICC, HALL D, UPPER CONCOURSE
11 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 30
Schedule subject to change
Musical Prelude
Rick Pedro, organist
Apalachin, N.Y.
Welcome
Steve Orr
Department Chaplain
The American Legion of Kentucky
Posting of Colors*
Post 347
Lady Lake, Fla.
Opening Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance*
David Jolly
National Chaplain, Sons of The American Legion
New York
Reading of the Holy Scriptures
Michael Pollitt
National Chaplain, The American Legion
New Hampshire
Memorial Prayer
Nancy Magginnis
National Chaplain, American Legion Auxiliary
Indiana
National Chaplain’s Message
Michael Pollitt
PRESENTATION OF MEMORIAL WREATHS
For The American Legion
Dan K. Wiley
Rodney K. Rolland
National Commander National Adjutant
Kansas Georgia
For the American Legion Auxiliary
Pam Ray Kathy Daudistel
National President National Secretary
Illinois Kentucky
For Sons of The American Legion
Bill Clancy III
Anthony W. Wright
National Commander National Adjutant New York Pennsylvania
For those in uniform who lost their lives serving America during the past year
Michael Pollitt
Nancy Magginnis
Lighting of the Candle of Remembrance
Michael Pollitt
Taps*
Closing Prayer*
Michael Pollitt
Retirement of Colors*
Post 347
Lady Lake, Fla.
Musical Postlude
*Audience stands
The Fleur De Lis Singers are a small chamber ensemble within the Louisville Chorus that performs music at the highest artistic level and carries it into the community, reaching spaces a full chorus cannot easily get to.
Red text indicates a distinguished guest who is a speaker or honoree.
Rolland Adams Jr. Race to the Top winner Salmon, Idaho
Whitney Allen Commissioner Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs
Kim Appel Director of Events Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC)
Mark Avis Chairman, Americanism Commission
The American Legion Palmer, Mass.
Steve Ayling Chairman, Badges & Packets
Cynthia Baca Recruiting Manager Pride Industries Dallas
Donald Ballard Medal of Honor Recipient
Harold Dale Barnett Past National Commander
The American Legion Douglasville, Ga.
Cleo Battle President/CEO
Louisville Tourism
Leslie Beavers Retired Army General/Former State Director of VA-Kentucky Frankfort, Ky.
Doug Bennett Executive Vice President Louisville Tourism
Martha Bigbie National Membership Recruiter of the Year Hurricane, Utah
Cory Boatwright President/CEO Student Veterans of America Washington, D.C.
Thomas Bock Past National Commander
The American Legion Aurora, Colo.
2026 Boys Nation President
Hon. John Brieden Past National Commander
The American Legion Brenham, Texas
Stephen Brightman Executive Director, Corporate Development ForgeNow Lewisville, Texas
Kassie Burawski Event Service Manager
Steve Buttleman Churchill Downs Bugler
Louis Cavaliere Representative Chapel of the Four Chaplains
Lt. Gen. Chin-Kung Chen (ret.) Vice Minister Veterans Affairs Council, Republic of China
Taipei City, Taiwan
Lynn Chickering
Representative Chapel of the Four Chaplains
Jo Ciavaglia Journalist Bucks County Courier Times Levittown, Pa.
William Clancy III National Commander Sons of The American Legion
Hon. Douglas Collins Secretary, Department of Veterans Affairs
John P. “Jake” Comer Past National Commander
The American Legion Quincy, Mass.
Martin Conatser Past National Commander
The American Legion Champaign, Ill.
Ronald Conley Past National Commander
The American Legion Pittsburgh
Mike Cooke Chairman, Membership & Post Activities Committee
The American Legion Rock Springs, Wyo.
Rebekah Courtney Sales Manager Louisville Tourism
Frank Crowder Founder/President/ CEO
Defense Consulting Services
San Antonio
Culinary Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Brianna M. Cruz Navy
Richard Dallaire Member, Convention Corporation
Kathy Daudistel National Secretary
The American Legion Auxiliary
Daniel M. Dellinger Past National Commander
The American Legion Vienna, Va.
Linden Dixon Jr. Chairman, Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission
The American Legion Manassas, Va.
Allan Dunham Dominion President
The Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans in Canada Ottawa, Ontario
Marine Science Technician 3rd Class Zachary T. Epps Coast Guard
Paul Espinoza Chairman, Veterans Employment & Education Commission
The American Legion Albuquerque, N.M.
Paul Evenson Chairman, Marketing Commission
The American Legion Sioux Falls, S.D.
Scott Fluhr Event Services Manager
KICC
Jimmie Foster Past National Commander
The American Legion Topeka, Kan.
Joe Garrett
2025-2026 Commander American Legion Department of Kentucky
Hon. Vincent Gaughan
Assistant Parliamentian
The American Legion Chicago
Gen. Bradford Gering Assistant
Commandant of the Marine Corps
Matthew Grant Investigative Reporter
KXAN-TV Austin, Texas
Hon. Craig Greenburg Mayor City of Louisville
William A. Greenly President General Sons of the American Revolution
James Grenier
Chairman, National Security Commission
The American Legion Leesburg, Va.
Coral May Grout
National Vice
President
American Legion Auxiliary
Tylar Hanley
2025 American Legion Baseball All-Academic Team
Captain Export, Pa.
Patricia A. Harris
Chairman, Internal Affairs Commission
The American Legion Raleigh, N.C.
Yanta Haynes Assistant State Veterans Programs Manager
Worksource GA Marietta, Ga.
Benjamin Headen National Vice Commander
The American Legion Tombstone, Ariz.
Michael D. Helm Past National Commander
The American Legion Norcatur, Kan.
Ben Hendricks Executive Director American Legion Auxiliary Indianapolis
Juliet Hetzel 2026 Oratorical Contest Champion Colorado Springs, Colo.
Clarence Hill Past National Commander
The American Legion Jacksonville, Fla.
Josh Hinkle Director of Investigations & Innovation
KXAN Austin, Texas
Jerry Howard Race to the Top winner Dubuque, Iowa
Spc. 3 Jonathan C.Ingram Space Force
Matthew Jabaut Chairman, Legislative Commission
The American Legion Lewiston, Maine
Anthony Jordan Past National Commander
The American Legion Augusta, Maine
2026 Junior Shooting Sports Precision Champion
2026 Junior Shooting Sports Sporter Champion
Gaither M. Keener Jr. Chairman, Finance Commission
The American Legion Waxhaw, N.C.
David King Chairman, Distinguished Guests
Brad Knapp Senior Destination Service Manager Louisville Tourism
James Koutz Past National Commander
The American Legion Boonville, Ind.
James LaCoursiere Past National Commander
The American Legion Oakdale, Conn.
Hon. Alan Lance Past National Commander
The American Legion Caldwell, Idaho
Jerry Landkamer National Vice Commander
The American Legion Norfolk, Neb.
Ronald LaRose National Vice Commander
The American Legion Bristol, Vt.
Jan Larson
National Vice Commander
The American Legion Cape Coral, Fla.
Berkley Lawrence Dominion President The Royal Canadian Legion
Michael Leon Member, Convention Corporation
Holly Lewis Chairman, Media & Communications Commission
The American Legion Colliers, W.Va.
David Lockhart
National Historian
The American Legion
Hadley, N.Y.
Shawn Long
National Treasurer
The American Legion
Indianapolis
Daniel Ludwig Past National Commander
The American Legion
Red Wing, Minn.
Isaac Marquez-Diaz
Local Veterans’ Employment Representative
Texas Veterans Commission Round Rock, Texas
Senior Airman
Julissa R. MartinezFrance Air Force
Alexis McCullough 2026 Eagle Scout of the Year
Bourbonnais, Ill.
Melanie McDonald VET Member
Black Hills Energy Rapid City, S.D.
Spc. Jenna L.McIntosh Army
Michael McWhorter
National Adjutant’s Driver
Butch Miller Past National Commander
The American Legion Greenfield, Ind.
William O. Moore Jr. President
Kentucky American Legion Convention Corporation
Hon. Jerry Moran
U.S. Senate Washington, D.C.
Paul Morin
Past National Commander
The American Legion Chicopee, Mass.
Kevin Myers Director, Military Engagement Programs First Command Financial Services Fort Worth, Texas
Nigerian Legion Delegation
Bill Oxford Past National Commander
The American Legion Lenoir, N.C.
Dede Petri Regent Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association
Michael Pollitt National Chaplain
The American Legion Canaan, N.H.
John Potts Jr.
Race to the Top winner Temple, Texas
Terry Prince President
National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs
Dale Punch
The American Legion Lincolnton, N.C.
Robert Ramirez Board Member Dallas Legacy Mission
Dallas
Pam Ray President American Legion Auxiliary
David Rehbein Past National Commander
The American Legion Ames, Iowa
Brett P. Reistad Past National Commander
The American Legion Manassas, Va.
Marybeth Revoir National Treasurer American Legion Auxiliary
Maj. Gen. (Army, ret.) John B. Richardson IV Senior Vice President, Policy & Alliances USAA San Antonio
Denise Rohan Past National Commander
The American Legion Verona, Wis.
Rodney K. Rolland National Adjutant
The American Legion Indianapolis
Sgt. Thomas J. Rowley National Guard
Gaylord Sanneman National Sergeantat-Arms
The American Legion Newton, Kan.
Richard Santos Past National Commander
The American Legion Harrington, Del.
Charles Schmidt Past National Commander
The American Legion Hines, Ore.
Mark Seavey National Judge Advocate
The American Legion Indianapolis
Daniel Seehafer Past National Commander
The American Legion Beaver Dam, Wisc.
Kelly Shackelford President/CEO
First Liberty Institute
Sidney Shouse Convention Corporation Secretary/ Department of Kentucky Adjutant
Randy Smith Senior Vice President of Quality Centene (Wellcare)
Jason Sojka Vice President of Convention Development Louisville Tourism
Robert Spanogle Past National Commander/Past National Adjutant
The American Legion Indianapolis
Cpl. Jessi N. Stegall Marine Corps
Stevie Stevenson Director of Catering Sales KICC
Robert Sturns Executive Director Workforce Solutions Tarrant County Fort Worth, Texas
Kendrick Sylvester National Commander’s Driver
Bruce Thiesen Past National Commander
The American Legion Plymouth, Calif.
Vincent J. Troiola Past National Commander
The American Legion Windham, Maine
Robert Turner Past National Commander
The American Legion Cartersville, Ga.
Michael Walton Chairman, Convention Corporation The American Legion Springfield, Ill.
Stephen Weismann National Vice Commander
The American Legion Collinwood, Tenn.
Daniel Wheeler
Past National Commander/Past
National Adjutant
The American Legion Indianapolis
Asst. Chief Melissa L. Wiesner
Two Rivers Police Department
Two Rivers, Wis.
Christina Wiley
Sonia Wiley National Commander’s Spouse
The American Legion Leavenworth, Kan.
CW5 Phyllis Wilson (Retired)
President Military Women’s Memorial Arlington, Va.
Fang Wong Past National Commander
The American Legion Flushing, N.Y.
Firefighter/EMTParamedic Lucas Woodward
Sidney Department of Fire and Emergency Services Sidney, Ohio
Anthony J. Wright National Adjutant Sons of The American Legion Parkesburg, Penn.
You can help a child in need of a life-saving transplant by working with the Children’s Organ Transplant Association. COTA works with thousands of transplant families across the country – including many in your area.
With your help, COTA provides fundraising assistance and family support to transplant families at no cost.
Commended by The American Legion for its humanitarian efforts on behalf of children in need of organ and bone marrow transplants, the Children’s Organ Transplant Association has partnered with Departments, Auxiliaries, Detachments and Squadrons for more than 35 years.
You can make a hope-giving, life-saving difference by contacting COTA today.
The Trusted Leader Supporting Families …For a Lifetime
Go to COTA.org to learn how you can help. Or call 800.366.2682
The 20th American Legion Legacy Run will arrive at the General George Patton Museum of Leadership on Fort Knox, Ky. – about 45 minutes SSE of Louisville – on Aug. 27 after departing from Towers’ Frontier HarleyDavidson in Lincoln, Neb., on Aug. 23 and traveling approximately 1,000 miles through Iowa, Missouri, Illinois and Indiana.
JROTC CONTESTS
Friday, Aug. 28
10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Color Guard)
2:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. (JROTC)
KICC, Hall D, Upper Concourse
Saturday, Aug. 29, 1 p.m.
KICC, Hall D, Upper Concourse
Tuesday, Sept. 1, 6:30 p.m.
KICC, Ballroom, Main Concourse
Entertainment by the Liverpool Invasion, a dynamic live experience evoking the magic of Beatlemania
Sunday, Aug. 30, 1:05 p.m.; purchase discounted tickets via legion.org/convention Louisville Slugger Field, 401 E. Main St.
Saturday, Aug. 29, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
GH, Nunn, 2nd Floor, East Tower
For TriWest, there is no other mission. We’ve spent 30 years providing access by building and maintaining strong networks of high-performing medical professionals to care for our nation’s heroes.
Brown
335 W. Broadway
Georgia, Idaho, Maine, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, West Virginia
Courtyard
400 S. 2nd St.
American Legion National Headquarters
Galt House
140 N. 4th St.
Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, France, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Latin America, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Philippines, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin, American Legion National Headquarters, Sons of The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters
Hampton Inn
101 E. Jefferson St.
American Legion National Headquarters
Hyatt Regency
320 W. Jefferson St.
Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, Pennsylvania
Marriott
280 W. Jefferson St.
Alabama, Kentucky, Maryland, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Vermont, Virginia, Wyoming Omni
400 S. 2nd St.
Arkansas, Indiana, New Jersey Seelbach
500 S. 4th St.
California, Delaware, Washington
100/132
Connecticut, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, Tennessee
Transit
EMT arrangements have been made to provide medical services on-site for attendees if required. Should an attendee require other medical services, contact one of the local hospitals listed on the convention app, or follow the procedures below and seek the appropriate assistance.
To program your phone for emergency situations within the Kentucky International Convention Center, use (502) 595-4362. VAMC personnel may be available in the exhibit hall, but will not attend to emergency medical situations.
If attending a meeting or function at the Galt House, use any house telephone and dial 6 to report an emergency. To program your phone for emergency situations within the hotel, use (502) 568-3464 for security. Questions about medical services can be sent to conventiondivision@legion.org.
Daily access to building:
One hour prior to start of first meeting
Daily access to convention floor
(Sept. 1-3): one hour prior to call to order
Daily building closure:
One hour after last meeting
These times and days are subject to change without notice.
Attendees experiencing symptoms of communicable diseases should seek medical attention and refrain from attending the convention.
Dan K. Wiley National Commander Kansas
Rodney K. Rolland National Adjutant Georgia
The American Legion continues its commitment to serving the nation’s veterans, their families and all children. This commitment has served us well since 1919, when the veterans of World War I returned to U.S. soil and formed what would become the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization.
As The American Legion convenes in Louisville, delegates gather to conduct the vital business of the organization. From this convention will come policies that will direct the volunteer members as they work to make their communities – and our nation – better in the coming year and beyond.
The Legion accomplishes its goals primarily at the grassroots level, but with direction from National Headquarters in Indianapolis and an office in Washington, D.C.
The American Legion’s chief executive officer is the national commander, elected by national convention delegates to a one-year term. The five national vice commanders are also chosen by the national convention.
Dan K. Wiley is the 2025-2026 national commander of The American Legion. The major accomplishments of the Legion during his term are detailed in this official program and organization report.
Rodney K. Rolland, national adjutant, is the chief administrative officer of The American Legion. The appointed national officers of the Legion are the national adjutant, national judge advocate, national treasurer, national chaplain, national historian and national sergeant-at-arms.
Arizona
Jan
National Vice Commander Maryland
Michael
National Chaplain New Hampshire
CPA National Treasurer Indiana
Stephen
Weismann National Vice Commander Tennessee
New York
Gaylord K.
National Sergeant-at-Arms Kansas
Advocate Virginia
Alabama Hardwick O. Hall Sr.
Alaska James E. Pisa
Arizona Andres Jaime Jr.
Arkansas Michael W. Westergren
California Eric W. Measles
Colorado Thomas J. Florez
Connecticut Robert S. Murray
Delaware Dwight D. Lacy
District of Columbia
Herman T. Preston Jr.
Florida Jim V. Ramos
France Hans J. Stockenberger
Georgia Phil Youngblood
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Clyde R. Drumheller Jr.
Robert L. Skinner
Ronald E. Hoffman
Kenneth R. Cooper
Iowa Robert V. Waugh
Kansas Jeremy J. Ehart
Kentucky
Latin America
William O. Moore Jr.
Randall L. Butler
Louisiana Byron K. Comeaux
Maine Lloyd H. Woods
Maryland Ronald L. Holcombe
Massachusetts John P. Lenotte Sr.
Michigan
Brett E. Holt
Minnesota Dr. Carl R. Moon
Mississippi Murry Q. Toney Jr.
Missouri George E. Scarborough
Montana Glen A. Sharbono
Nebraska
James A. Costello
Nevada L. James Stewart
New Hampshire Robert E. Dionne Sr.
New Jersey
Eugene J. O’Grady
New Mexico Edward Cheatham Jr.
New York
Frank J. Peters
North Carolina David S. Shore
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Steven D. Anderson
Ronald L. Chapman
Charles S. O’Leary
Oregon Don Weber
Pennsylvania
Michael D. Murphy
Philippines Michael S. Napsey
Puerto Rico
Rhode Island
Carmen I. Rosario
James W. Weinreich
South Carolina Jimmy E. Hawk
South Dakota Frederick N. Nelson
Tennessee Lanny D. Culver
Texas John C. Hince
Utah Terry D. Schow
Vermont Joseph C. Zickmund
Virginia Leslie J. Clevinger
Washington Rafael A. Munoz-Cintron
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
William W. Kile
Robert L. Shappell
Ronald W. Wood
The information desk for the 107th National Convention will be open from Thursday, Aug. 27, to Wednesday, Sept. 2, in the Kentucky International Convention Center. Times are subject to change.
Thursday, Aug. 27 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 28 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 29 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 30 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 31 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 1 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 2 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.
The Exhibit Hall will be open from Friday, Aug. 28, to Tuesday, Sept. 1, in Hall B, Upper Concourse of the convention center. Times are subject to change.
Friday, Aug. 28 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 29 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 30 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 31 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 1 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mark A. Avis
Chairman, Massachuetts
Ronald E. Neff
Director, Indiana
The purpose of the Americanism Commission is to supervise and coordinate national committee activity and to promote an understanding and appreciation of American government, the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship, and activity in the American way of life through youth programs, community service, instruction of prospective citizens and legal immigrants, education and educational facilities, and protection of the U.S. flag from physical desecration.
Americanism committees
American Legion Baseball Committee
Gary Stone, Chairman, Missouri
Committee on Children & Youth
Herbert J. Petit Jr., Chairman, Louisiana
Committee on Youth Education
James Rohan, Chairman, Wisconsin
Youth Cadet Law Enforcement Committee
Richard Neville, Chairman, North Carolina
Citizens Flag Alliance Advisory Committee
National Commander Dan K. Wiley, Chairman, Kansas
Michael E. Walton
Chairman, Illinois
Bridget Robinson, CMP/CMM
Director, Georgia
The Convention Commission oversees the implementation of The American Legion’s Request for Proposals (RFPs) pertaining to the guidelines for selecting cities to be recommended to the
National Executive Committee (NEC) for awarding a national convention bid; supervises and coordinates (with the host convention corporation, where applicable) all activities, venues and logistical requirements associated with the conduct of a national convention; administers and refers all national convention-related resolutions to the applicable national commission and the National Executive Committee; and assists the chief judge and assistant chief judge of contests with the implementation of procedures supporting the effective conduct of all uniformed groups’ contests at the national convention.
Future convention sites
Kansas City, Mo. (2027) TBA (2030)
Columbus, Ohio (2028) Pittsburgh (2031)
Indianapolis (2029) O klahoma City (2032)
The purpose of the Finance Commission is to prepare the yearly budget and the handling of funds under that budget, and such other duties as shall be prescribed by the NEC, subject to the approval of the NEC. (See Article I, Section 5, of the National By-Laws of The American Legion.)
American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, Inc.
Dennis R. Boland, President, Florida
The American Legion Endowment Fund Corp.
Hon. Vincent M. Gaughan, President, Illinois
Overseas Graves Decoration Trust
National Commander Dan K. Wiley, Chairman, Kansas
North Carolina
Indiana
The Internal Affairs Commission handles policies relating to activities conducted for organizational purposes; reviews and gives guidance to the necessary administrative operations of National Headquarters; recommends policies and procedures relating to trophies and awards given by the national organization in connection with Legion activities; acts on all nominations for the Distinguished Service Medal and reports recommendations to the NEC; is responsible for the contents of the Manual of Ceremonies, promotion of its use, the proper wearing of uniforms, caps, regalia, official badges, etc.; and reviews and recommends to the NEC recipients of the International Amity Award and the Canadian Friendship Award.
The commission also oversees long-term programs and activities such as Sons of The American Legion, Paid Up For Life, the National Emergency Fund, Legion Riders, National American Legion College, Training Tuesdays, Buddy Checks and more.
Internal Affairs committees
American Legion Riders Advisory Committee
David Heredia Jr., Chairman, Maryland
Constitution & By-Laws Committee
Hon. Vincent M. Gaughan, Chairman, Illinois
National Convention Resolutions Assignment Committee
Bruce Feuerbach, Chairman, Iowa
Membership & Post Activities Committee
Mike Cooke, Chairman, Wyoming
Sons of The American Legion Advisory Committee
Donald Hall Jr., Chairman, Maryland
Membership Study Committee and IT Oversight Committee
Gaither M. Keener Jr., Chairman, North Carolina
The Legislative Commission provides the NEC with an annual consolidated report on Legislative Council activities, summarizing grassroots lobbying efforts for each congressional session; develops a comprehensive report of all resolutions adopted by the national convention and/or NEC that seek action by Congress or are legislative policy statements of The American Legion; assists other commissions and their staffs in representing the Legion before Congress and its committees on all relevant legislative matters; and formulates appropriate legislative actions to be endorsed by resolutions adopted by The American Legion.
South Dakota
Indiana
The Marketing Commission is charged with working in concert with American Legion commissions and committees to build awareness and support for the mission and programs of the Legion; to promote them to active-duty military, National Guard and reserve components, military veterans and retirees, and the general public; and such other purposes as may be assigned to it by the National Executive Committee.
Emblem Committee
Robert Burke, Chairman, Massachusetts
Other responsibilities
Corporate development
Special events
Holly Lewis Chairman, West Virginia
Henry Howard Director, Indiana
The American Legion Media & Communications Commission oversees the majority of print and digital media products, channels and services delivered by National Headquarters. The commission also oversees a portion of the organization’s media outreach program, including speech preparation, response to media queries, and support for key marketing initiatives and corporate relationships.
Legion media asset categories
Print Web Email Social Mobile apps Physical displays Podcasts
Read
James Grenier Jr. Chairman, Virginia
Sean Counihan Director, Virginia
The National Security Commission recommends policies to ensure the national security of the United States; has an understanding of the federal budget process and the budgets of the departments of Defense, State and Homeland Security; maintains a professional working relationship with those federal departments, all relevant congressional oversight committees and their staff; monitors hearings of these committees and provides congressional testimony; and is knowledgeable about security threats to the United States.
National Security committees
Aerospace Committee
Milton Woodle, Chairman, North Carolina
Conventional Armed Forces Committee
Thomas B. Schottenbauer, Chairman, Minnesota
Foreign Relations Committee
Michael J. Landkamer, Chairman, Nebraska
Law and Order & Homeland Security Committee
George W. Wehrli, Chairman, Florida
Military Benefits & Quality of Life Committee
William J. Flanagan, Chairman, Illinois
National Guard & Reserve Forces Committee
Guillermo Guillen, Chairman, Virginia
Unconventional Forces & Intelligence Committee
Douglas C. Haggan, Chairman, France
The Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission formulates and recommends policies, plans and programs to the NEC on direct assistance, outreach and support for veterans and their families regarding VA claims and benefits, health care, memorial affairs and women veterans programs to ensure veterans receive the highest quality of care for service-related injuries and illnesses; coordinates the activities of the national organization in regard to veterans affairs; and oversees the effectiveness of programs serving veterans and their dependents in claims for benefits administered by federal and state programs.
VA&R committees
Be the One Mental Wellness Committee
Cliff W. Barker, Chairman, Iowa
Health Administration Committee
James W. Stanko, Chairman, Colorado
National Cemetery Committee
James Brehio, Chairman, Massachusetts
Veterans Benefits Committee
William J. Smith, Chairman, Pennsylvania
The purpose of the Veterans Employment & Education Commission is to supervise and coordinate all activities of committees assigned to the commission; when necessary, to initiate action concerning all matters affecting the economic well-being of veterans and/or the re-establishment of all veterans returning to civilian life after a period of active service in the armed forces of the United States; and to keep the national commander and the NEC informed concerning all developments affecting the economic welfare of veterans in all areas under the jurisdiction of the commission.
VE&E committees
Employment & Veterans Preference Committee
Ken LaVoy, Chairman, Ohio
Veterans Education, Other Benefits & Homelessness Committee
Alonzo M. Scott, Chairman, Virginia
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
James Baca
Executive Director, New Mexico
Baca oversees the Americanism, Internal Affairs & Membership and Convention & Meetings divisions, as well as the library, including the Emil A. Blackmore Museum.
Mario Marquez
Executive Director of Government Affairs, Philippines
Marquez oversees the Legislative, National Security and Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation divisions, and serves as the liaison for the White House, Cabinet-level officials, members of Congress and D.C.-based organizations.
Doug Hensley Aide to the National Commander, Kansas
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American Red Cross
Angel’s Envy
Belle of Louisville Riverboats
Callaway Transportation
Captions Unlimited
City of Louisville, Mayor’s Office
Emblem Sales
Eventgroove
Fleur De Lis Singers, within Louisville
Chorus
Galt House
Governor of Kentucky
Infiniti Wireless Solutions
Kentucky Derby Museum
Kentucky International Convention Center
Levy
Liverpool Invasion
Louisville Mobility Scooter Rental
Louisville Slugger Field
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
Louisville Tourism
Marco Promotional Products
Markey’s
Mobility City
Nancy Hays Entertainment, Inc.
Prestige AV & Creative Service
Rick Pedro, RJCP Entertainment, Inc.
Shepard Exposition Services
Stage Tech, Inc.
The American Legion
VA Healthcare System
WAGS Pet Therapy of Kentucky
Waldo Waldman
EXHIBITORS
Abbott Diabetes Care
Advocate Health Advisors, LLC
Air Force Enlisted Village
AMBA/American Legion Auxiliary Insurance Program
American Academy of Ophthalmology
American Changer Corp.
American Income Life Insurance
American Legion Child Well-being Foundation
American Legion Media & Communications Division
American Legion Veterans & Children Foundation
American Senior Benefits
American Society of Anesthesiologists
AMSUS – Society of Federal Health Professionals
Arrow International
Cala Health
Columbia Southern University
Consumer Cellular
COTA – Children’s Organ Transplant Association
Cutco
Dan”Doc” Ballard, Medal of Honor recipient
Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA)
Delta Dental of California
Dept. of VA – Center for Minority Veterans
Dept. of VA – Digital Health Office
Dept. of VA – Life Insurance
Dept. of VA – Office of Suicide Prevention
Dept. of VA – Veterans Affairs-National Creative Arts Festival
Dept. of VA – VHA Member Services
DEXCOM
Diamond Game
Euroshine USA, Inc.
Healthlight LLC
Heroes with Hearing Loss
Legionnaire Insurance Trust
Liberty Home Guard
Lifeline Homecare, Inc.
LogicMark
M&E Sales
Moore Fundraising
Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company
MyLegion.org
National Braille Press
National Cemetery Administration
National Institute of Standards and Technology
National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress
National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution
Neurolumen
Nutman Company USA, Inc.
Oracle
Patriot Paws Service Dogs
Pose 502
Post-Stix LLC
Quilts of Valor Foundation
Save a Warrior
Special Olympics Florida
SymbolArts, LLC
The Army & Air Force Exchange
The Grateful Nation Project HC Inc.
TriWest Healthcare Alliance
USAA
Vantage Mobility
Veteran Information & Assistance Program (VIAP)
Veterans Evaluation Services
Veterans Health Information Exchange (VHIE) Program Office/VHA
Veterans Information Service
Veterans Voices Writing Project
Visit Kansas City
Vitalizone Inc.
Wellcare
Wreaths Across America
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