Category Archives: Florida

Bloomingdale Student Wins Scholarship Through The Legion Boys State Program

Bloomingdale SGA President Landon Holschauer was awarded the Florida Boys State American Legion Chapter 230 Scholarship.

Osprey Observer ~ Jane Owen ~ Landon Holschauer is a stand-out student at Bloomingdale High School. He is senior class president and a ‘Spirit Man’ (one of two for this school year). As a student government association (SGA) board member he worked on Florida House Bill 295, Comprehensive Waste Reduction Recycling Plan, as part of the Ought To Be a Law program. He invests his time tirelessly; and he runs on Bloomingdale’s track and cross-country team.

In June, Holschauer represented Bloomingdale High School in the American Legion Florida Boys State program in Tallahassee. 500 boys from all over the state attended the weeklong program. Holschauer was a top 12 finalist. He was awarded the Florida Boys State American Legion Chapter 230 Scholarship for $500.

American Legion Boys State, founded in 1935, is a program in which students become citizens of a mythical city, county and state from where they elect officials and introduce and argue bills in a legislature. They learn the rights, privileges and responsibilities of franchised citizens and duties of various city, county and state officers.

Mindy Edgeman, Bloomingdale’s college and career counselor, was not surprised that Holschauer received the scholarship.

“Landon is an amazing student and person, and we were thrilled to have him represent Bloomingdale! We were confident he would be chosen as a delegate, and it is no surprise he won this prestigious scholarship. Landon is one of those kids that I can always count on.  He served on the Senior Awards team for me last year and this year he is serving as one of my Collegeboard Ambassadors,” Edgeman said.

Holschauer became interested in the American Legion Florida Boys State program because of the potential for college scholarships; he figured it would be a great experience regardless of whether he was awarded a scholarship. He said the experience helped him hone his leadership skills and zero in on his interests and career goals.

“Boys State helped me figure out what I was good at and interested in. At Boys State, every single time you run for office, you have to do a speech and sell yourself to a group of boys you don’t know. I realized I am good at networking and communicating and that would be beneficial in a business,” Holschauer said.

s Bloomingdale’s 2026 student class president, Holschauer’s advice to students is to take chances.

“Put yourself out there. There’s no reason not to. At the end of the day, you either get it or you don’t and either way, it’s an experience you can learn from,” Holschauer said.

To learn more about the American Legion Florida Boys State Program, visit www.floridalegion.org/programs-services/boys-state/.


Weekly Reports for October 16, 2025

LEGION REPORTS

Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary


SAL REPORTS

Detachment Membership Summary
Squadrons Membership Summary


John T. “Jack” Bennett, Jr.

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past 4th District Commander John T. “Jack” Bennett, Jr. of Ocklawaha, Florida. Jack passed away on the evening of Monday, October 13, 2025, at the age of 63. He was a proud member of Belleview Post 284.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife, Lynn Bennett; two sons, Daniel and Travis; and three grandchildren, Mason, Morgan, and Molly. Service details are not yet available; updates regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as they become available.

A U.S. Air Force veteran of the Lebanon & Grenada, Persian Gulf, Panama, and Global War on Terrorism eras, Jack proudly served from 1981 to 2001, dedicating 20 years of honorable service to his country. A devoted Legionnaire, he held 25 years of continuous membership in The American Legion and 15 years of continuous membership in the Sons of The American Legion. His extensive leadership and service reflected his deep commitment to both organizations.

Within the Sons of The American Legion, Jack served as Squadron Commander (2012–2018 and 2023–2025) and District 1st Vice Commander (2024–present).

Within The American Legion, he served as Post Chaplain (2013–2017 and 2025-present), Post Vice Commander (2017–2018), and Post Commander (2018–2021). At the District level, Jack served as 4th District Vice Commander (2019-2021) and as 4th District Commander (2021-2023).

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Wreaths Across America in Jack’s memory.

Please keep Jack’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

****UPDATE***

A service for Past 4th District Commander Jack Bennett will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, November 8, at 13837 SE 80th Ave, Summerfield, Florida. A celebration of life will follow immediately after the service.

From the family: Please join us in celebrating the life of Jack “Gator” Bennett. The service will begin at 1:00 PM, with time to remember and celebrate until 4:00 PM. Guests are encouraged to bring a dish to share and their beverage of choice.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Wreaths Across America in Jack’s memory.


Weekly Reports for September 25, 2025

LEGION REPORTS

Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary


SAL REPORTS

Detachment Membership Summary
Squadrons Membership Summary


Dan Aaron, Jr.

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Post Commander Dan Aaron, Jr. of Wabasso, Florida. Dan passed away on Monday, September 29th, 2025, at the age of 74. He was a proud and active cornerstone member of Johnny Wright American Legion Post 181. Dan is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; his sons, Shawn Crawford, Antwan Crawford, Tavares Bullard, and Anthony Aaron; and his three daughters, Brenda Aaron, Jekevia Aaron, and Sanae Aaron.

Service details are not yet available. Updates regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as they become available.

A Vietnam War veteran, Dan served in the United States Air Force from 1972 to 1978, dedicating six years of service to his country with honor and distinction. Following his military retirement, he continued his lifelong commitment to service through 36 continuous years of devoted membership in The American Legion.

Over the years, Dan held numerous leadership roles at the Post level, including Judge Advocate, Vice Commander, and Finance Officer. He was directly engaged within the community, belonging to many other fruitful organizations also.

He leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to his family, fellow veterans, and community.

Those wishing to extend their condolences may do so by contacting his wife at:
Shirley Aaron
4685 47th Ct
Vero Beach, FL 32967

Please keep Dan’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.


Win Tickets to the 2025 Army-Navy Game – Recruit & Compete!

National Commander Dan K. Wiley is proud to announce an exciting membership incentive: a chance to win tickets to the 2025 Army-Navy Game!

 The Prize Opportunities

Individual Recruitment Award
The Top 3 recruiters nationwide will each receive:

  • Two (2) tickets to the Army-Navy Game
  • Saturday, December 13, 2025 – 3:00 PM
  • M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland

Department Regional Award
In addition, five (5) sets of tickets (two tickets each) will be awarded to the top department in each region based on performance for the November target date.

(Please note: transportation, lodging, and additional expenses are not included.)

 Eligibility Criteria – Individual Recruiter Award

  • Recruit a minimum of three (3) new membersbetween October 1 – November 11, 2025.
  • Eligible members must be new veterans joining for the 2026 membership yearwho were not members during 2025.
  • Paid transfers, new Auxiliary, and Sons of The American Legion members do not count.
  • New members must be processed and verified in the national database by the deadline.

 How to Enter – Individual Recruiter Award

Submit the certification form with your list of new members (including name, ID number, department, and post).

Submission Deadline: November 14, 2025
Winners Announced: Monday, November 17, 2025

 Submit Forms To:
The American Legion
Internal Affairs & Membership
PO Box 1055
Indianapolis, IN 46204

 Email: KADAMS@legion.org
 Fax: (317) 630-1413

Step Up – Recruit – Win!
Who will represent your department and our top recruiters at M&T Bank Stadium?

Download Flyer | Download Form


Weekly Reports for September 25, 2025

LEGION REPORTS

Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary


SAL REPORTS

Detachment Membership Summary
Squadrons Membership Summary


David McMannen

It is with profound saddens I report the death of one of our members -David McMannen. Although only a member for a short period of time he found his way into the hearts of all that met him.

David P. McMannen, 67 of Mascotte, FL passed away from a tragic motorcycle accident Monday, September 15th at ORMC Orlando, FL surrounded by his three children.

David was born July 2, 1958, in Verdun, France. He is the son of Archibald D. McMannen and the late Patricia A. (Bowman) McMannen. He was the proud father of three children.

David was an attractions mechanic at Walt Disney World where he worked for the last 28 years. He was looking forward to retiring and being able to travel. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson, building cars, and gathering with friends and family.

He is survived by his three children, Trina McWilliams (Larry, Jr.) of Winter Garden, Kristin O’Hara (Seth) of Clermont, John (Bethany) McMannen of Minneola; eight grandchildren, MacKenzie (Logan), Skyler, Riley, Kendall, Molly, Carly, Abby, and Millie; one great-grandchild MacKinley. Father Archibald D. McMannen Siblings Steve “Mac” McMannen (Julie) of Winter Garden, Kaye Ward of TN and numerous nieces & nephews, extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Patricia and great-grandson TJ.

David did not want a funeral he wanted a party. The family will have a private event, and the public event will be held on October 19, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the VFW Post 2093 located at 4444 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, FL 32804.


Robert “Bob” B. Sussan

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Assistant Judge Advocate Robert “Bob” B. Sussan of Saint Johns, Florida. Bob passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at the age of 74. He was a proud member of Jacksonville Post 372.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn Sussan. Service details are not yet available; updates regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as they become available.

A U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War era, Bob was a dedicated Legionnaire with 22 years of continuous membership in The American Legion. His extensive leadership service included contributions to the Department of Virginia, the Department of Florida, and at the National level.

While in Virginia, Bob served as Post Commander (2007–2010), District Commander (2013–2015), Department Historian (2014–2015), and Department Membership Chair (2015–2016). After transferring to the Department of Florida in 2019, he served as Department Assistant Judge Advocate (2019–2020) and as Post Judge Advocate (2024-2025) until his passing.

At the National level, Bob served on the Americanism Council (2011–2016), the 75th Anniversary WWII Commemoration Committee (2016–2019), and the American Legion Riders Advisory Committee (2013–2019), where he was Chair from 2015 to 2019.

Please keep Marilyn and the Sussan family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Update: Saturday, October 25th, 11:00 am Service, with reception immediately following at the church.

  • St. Marks Lutheran Church
    3967 Hendricks Ave.
    Jacksonville, Florida

Paul J. Markonni

With profound sadness, we say goodbye to Paul J. Markonni (Lake Worth, Florida), born in Chicago, Illinois, whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of many. Paul left this world on September 17, 2025, at the age of 81, leaving a void in the lives of so many people.

Paul, with 10 years of continuous membership in The American Legion, served as the Sergeant at Arms at Rood-Williams Post 271 in Tequesta. He also volunteered as a Veteran Recovery Team Leader for the Missing in America Project. He was drafted in the 1960’s and served a tour in Vietnam around 1968, as a CID Agent working out of Saigon, and was awarded a Bronze Star recipient. He retired as a Special Agent for the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.

In the vast expanse of eternity, Paul shall find rest, cradled in the arms of everlasting peace. And as we bid Paul farewell, his loved ones carry with them the precious gift of his memory, a beacon of hope guiding them through the shadows of sorrow towards the light of a new dawn.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Taylor & Modeen Funeral Home (250 Center St, Jupiter, FL 33458) with military honors on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the South Florida National Cemetery (6501 S State Rd 7, Lake Worth, FL 33449).

For those that wish to honor the memory of Paul, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the following: Vietnam Veterans of West Palm Beach https://fovwpb.org; The Shih Tzu Rescue Florida https://shihtzu.rescueme.org; The American Legion Post #271, 775 NORTH US HIGHWAY 1, Tequesta, FL, 33469, or a charity of one’s choice.

Online tributes to and memories of Paul may be left at Paul J. Markonni Obituary – Visitation & Funeral Information


Weekly Reports for September 25, 2025

LEGION REPORTS

Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary


SAL REPORTS

Detachment Membership Summary
Squadrons Membership Summary


Arnold F. Makovsky

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Finance Chair Arnold F. Makovsky of Port Charlotte, Florida. Arnold passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the age of 85. He was a proud member of Punta Gorda Post 103.

Arnold is survived by his beloved wife, Noel, and two daughters, Ann and Mona. He was preceded in death by his son, Arnold J. Makvosky.

Service details are not yet available. Updates regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as they become available.

A U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War era, Arnold was a dedicated Legionnaire with 34 years of continuous membership in The American Legion. His extensive leadership service included serving as Post Judge Advocate from 2021 to 2023, Post 103 Commander from 2008 to 2010, 13th District Commander from 2003 to 2004, and Southwestern Area Commander from 2004 to 2005. At the Department level, he served as Membership Chair from 2005 to 2006, on the Time & Place Committee from 2015 to 2024, and as its Vice Chair from 2019 to 2023. He also served on the Finance Committee from 2008 to 2023 and as Finance Chair from 2016 to 2019. At the National level, Arnold served on the Americanism Council from 2003 to 2018 and the Legislative Council from 2006 to 2015.

Please keep Arnold’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Update: A Celebration of Life honoring Past Department Finance Chair Arnold Makovsky will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM at American Legion Post 103, 2101 Taylor Road, Punta Gorda, FL 33950.


Peter J. Gregory

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past 6th District Commander Peter J. Gregory of Winter Park, Florida. Peter passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025, at the age of 77. He was a proud and active member of Oviedo Post 243. Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his son, Andrew Gregory; and his daughter, Eliza Mohler.

Service details are not yet available. Updates regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as they become available.

A Vietnam War veteran, Peter proudly served in the United States Navy from 1969 through 1993, dedicating 24 years of honorable service to his country. Beyond his military career, he gave selflessly to his community through his volunteer work with the Masonic Lodge, Shriners Hospital, and The American Legion.

Peter first joined The American Legion in 1976 and held 22 years of continuous membership. At the Post level, he served as Adjutant, Service Officer, Vice Commander, and Commander. At the District level, he held the positions of 6th District Vice Commander (2021–2023) and 6th District Commander (2023–2024). His leadership, commitment, and service left an enduring mark on all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Those wishing to extend their condolences may do so through his wife at:

Mary Gregory
1041 Winter Springs Blvd.
Winter Springs, FL 32708

Please keep Peter’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children’s  or American Legion Oviedo Memorial Post 243.

UPDATE:

Past 6th District Commander Peter Gregory will be interred at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 US Highway 1, Mims, Florida 32754, on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Oviedo Memorial Post 243, 491 West Broadway St, Oviedo, FL 32765.


Weekly Reports for September 18, 2025

LEGION REPORTS

Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary


SAL REPORTS

Detachment Membership Summary
Squadrons Membership Summary


Weekly Reports for September 11, 2025

LEGION REPORTS

Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary


SAL REPORTS

Detachment Membership Summary
Squadrons Membership Summary


Weekly Reports for September 4, 2025

LEGION REPORTS

Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary


SAL REPORTS

Detachment Membership Summary
Squadrons Membership Summary


Weekly Reports for August 28, 2025

LEGION REPORTS

Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary


SAL REPORTS

Detachment Membership Summary
Squadrons Membership Summary


American Legion and VA partnering on special claims clinic for veterans

TAMPA, Florida – (Aug. 6) – The American Legion, the nation’s largest veterans service organization, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are conducting a special claims clinic for all veterans at no cost at the Tampa Convention Center, located at 333 S. Franklin St., Tampa, Florida 33602.

Please review the following information carefully, as logistical information has changed last-minute.

Friday the 22nd through Tuesday the 26th, American Legion service officers will be available to process claims on-site. Veterans should proceed to the Hospitality Office near the South East entrance of the Tampa Convention Center from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. to file their claims. Claims will no longer be processed in the initial West Hall location.

*ONLY* on Monday, Aug. 25th – Tuesday, Aug. 26th, staff from the St. Petersburg VA Regional Office will be on site between 8:30am and 3:00pm conducting examinations related to veteran claims Please see American Legion national staff for directions to the MDEO office.

Veterans attending should bring their ID, pen and paper, and their DD-214, as well as any documents related to their service treatment record.

Veterans do not need to sign up in advance. However, due to expected high attendance, veterans intending to file a new claim or file an increase, are encouraged to contact American Legion veteran service officers Kevin Buckner or Eric Taylor in advance to complete a power of attorney. Buckner can be reached at kbuckner@legion.org or 202-263-5766; Taylor can be reached at etaylor@legion.org or 202-263-5765

About The American Legion

The American Legion is the largest wartime veterans service organization with more than 1.4 million members in roughly 12,000 posts across the nation. Chartered by Congress in 1919, The American Legion is committed to mentoring youth and sponsoring wholesome community programs, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security and continued devotion to servicemembers and veterans. Learn more at legion.org.

Points of contact:

Onsite

Brandon McClain, Benefits Policy Analyst, The American Legion or Kevin Buckner

Cell: (202) 263-2996 or (202) 263-5766  Email: bmcclain@legion.org or kbuckner@legion.org


Weekly Reports for August 22, 2025

LEGION REPORTS

Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary


SAL REPORTS

Detachment Membership Summary
Squadrons Membership Summary


2025 ALB All-Academic Team announced

The team is sponsored by Diamond Sports.

The 2025 American Legion Baseball All-Academic Team was announced during the American Legion World Series in Shelby, N.C., on Sunday. The team is sponsored by Diamond Sports, a leading manufacturer in baseball merchandise and the official baseball used during American Legion Baseball national tournaments. As the official sponsor, Diamond Sports provides $25,000 in scholarships to the nine players on the All-Academic Team.

Before a player can be considered for the All-Academic Team, he or she must be nominated by their team manager or head coach. Each department baseball committee reviews submitted applications and selects their overall state winner, who receives a $500 scholarship from The American Legion.

Each regional winner named to the All-Academic Team receives a $2,500 scholarship, while the overall top academic player is named the team captain and receives a $5,000 scholarship.

The 2025 American Legion Baseball All-Academic Team is:

All-Academic Team Captain: Tylar Hanley, Post 868, New Kensington, Pa.

Northeast Region: Luca Finton, Post 188, Sandwich, Mass.

Mid-Atlantic Region: Landon Kettles, Post 273, Poquoson, Va.

Southeast Region: Jacob McClintic, Post 250, Middleburg, Fla.

Mid-South Region: Ezekiel Wall, Post 15, Crowley, La.

Great Lakes Region: Benjamin Sullivan, Post 502, Valparaiso, Ind.

Central Plains Region: Tyler Olson, Post 55, Pender, Neb.

Northwest Region: Landon McAnelly, Post 6, Cheyenne, Wyo.

Western Region: McCoy Rippentrop, Post 22, Rapid City, S.D.