The PA American Legion Department Convention ended with a lot of energy as a new Department Commander was elected to lead The PA American Legion. The 2022-2023 Department Commander is Craig A. Wilhelm.
Commander Wilhelm was born in Sellerville, PA on June 11, 1943. He graduated from Pennridge High School in 1961 and attended classes at Temple University. Wilhelm graduated from Lansdale School of Business with an Associate Degree in Business.
In 1964 he was drafted into the U.S. Army and completed his basic and AIT training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He was assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division, as a company clerk at Scofield barracks, Hawaii. After 7 months in Hawaii, he served a tour of duty in Vietnam.
Wilhelm was in Vietnam over ten months and earned several citations, including the Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, National Defense Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal.
After being discharged from the U.S. Army, Craig joined the American Legion in 1966. The American Legion became a big part of his life as he continued to serve his community and fellow veterans.
As many Department Commanders begin, he worked hard as Post Commander and several other post positions. Commander Wilhelm continued his service to the Legion and climbed in ranks as he moved up to the 9th District Commander and Eastern Vice Commander. His dedication to The American Legion continued in many appointed and elected positions. Wilhelm has served as chairman of the National Commanders Dinner five times.
In 2011, Commander Wilhelm received the Post Commander of the year. He was honored to be selected and represent his district.
He currently resides in Sellersville with his companion of twenty years, Connie. He is the father to his son Douglas, has two granddaughters, and one great grandson.
