The Department Commander, the three department Vice Commanders, each District Commander, comprise the Department Executive Committee.  Past Department Commanders are considered life members; they can join the debate on issues, but have no vote.  The DEC has the department’s administrative power, responsible for drafting an annual budget, approving contracts and signing off on Legion spending.  DEC members are delegates with full voting power during the Legion’s quarterly meetings.  In short, the DEC serves as the organization’s board of directors.  The Pennsylvania American Legion holds a DEC four times a year.