Greetings, Legionnaires and our American Legion Family, My fellow Legionnaires, it is with immense gratitude and true humility that I stand before you today, deeply honored by the trust you […]
JON A. HOSFELD DEPARTMENT COMMANDER 2026-2027
Jon was born on June 6, 1948, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, to James Clinton and Lois Aileen (Wickard) Hosfeld. James was a WWI Veteran of the United States Army Air Corps and served in the Pacific theater.
Jon was raised in a faith-centered family and graduated from Cumberland Valley High School in 1966 and enlisted in the United States Army in January 1967During his military service, Jon served overseas in Korea, Germany, and Vietnam, attaining the rank of Sergeant (E-5). His decorations include the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and “V” Device, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation, among others.
Following his military service, Jon continued a family tradition spanning three generations in the railroad industry. He joined Conrail on April 1, 1970, and later worked for CSX, serving as a Trainman, Conductor, Engineer, Road Foreman of Engines, Trainmaster, and Senior Trainmaster. Following the events of September 11, 2001, he became a Certified Hazmat Sentinel Specialist and received National Security clearance. A career highlight came in 2001 when he participated in a team effort that safely stopped a runaway train, an event later portrayed in the 2010 film Unstoppable. Jon retired in October 2006 after 37 years of railroad service.
A dedicated member of The American Legion for more than 38 years, Jon has served in numerous leadership roles, including Post 109 Commander, District Deputy Commander, District Chaplain, Department Central Section Vice Commander, and member of the National Security Commission and National ALR Advisory Committee member.
Jon married Judy Snyder, the daughter of Reverend J. Allen and Louise Snyder on March 30, 1974. They now reside on their farm in Marysville, Perry County, Pennsylvania. They have one daughter, Andrea Marie Fields, Son-in-Law Dr. Matthew Fields and two grandchildren, Maggie and Greyson.
Throughout his life, Jon has remained committed to serving fellow veterans, his community, and his country.
