A new leader elected to the PA American Legion on Sunday, July 16, 2023.
The closing session of the department convention started with the Call to Order from Department Commander Craig Wilhelm. The Salute to the Colors was ordered by Department Sergeant-at-Arms Richard Craig. Department Chaplain Rev. Richard Denison gave the morning invocation followed by a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem sung by Miss Presley Carnes. Commander Wilhelm held the POW/MIA ceremony and the Pledge of Allegiance was started by Richard Craig.
After the morning ceremonies, Department Adjutant Woody Hogan held the election of 2023-2024 Department Commander.
Commander Wilhelm gave an emotional speech of his last year as Department Commander. Wilhelm presented plaques of service to his outgoing officers including: Eastern Vice Commander Beverly Glover, Western Vice Commander Jeff Olson, Central Vice Commandeer Richard Scholendorn.
Vice Commander Glover announced the new Eastern Vice Commander Harry House. Vice Commander Richard Scholoendorn announced the new Central Vice Commander William Whitmoyer. Vice Commander Jeff Olson announced the new Western Vice Commander Douglas Church.
A roll call of Past Department Commanders was announced as all the Past Department Commanders were called to the stage.
The installation of newly elected Department Commander Stephen Lavelle was held and he took the oath of Department Commander in front of the Legion family. Commander Lavelle had his wife, daughters, son-in-law, and grandchildren on stage with him. Past National Commander Ronald F. Conley presented Commander Lavelle with his Department Colors and American Flag. Chaplain Denison blessed the Colors.
Installation of the new Department Officers and District Commanders was held on the convention floor.
The presentation to Commander Wilhelm was preformed by Past Department Commanders: Blue Cap - Joe Glazier, Certificate Plaque - Carl Olshefskie, Name Tag & Lapel in - Robert John, and Colors - Mike Stelacio.
This weekend was a great celebration of The Pennsylvania American Legion! Hope to see you at National Convention in August and our next DEC in September.
