LEGION REPORTS
Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary
Weekly Reports for November 14, 2025
The American Legion Welcomes End to Government Shutdown
(INDIANAPOLIS – November 13, 2025) – American Legion National Commander Dan K. Wiley., issued the following statement pertaining to the re-opening of the federal government:
“The American Legion is grateful that members of Congress finally found a solution to the shutdown. While this is great news for veterans, military members and their families, it is only a temporary solution as this Continuing Resolution expires Jan. 30. We are grateful that the new agreement fully funds the Department of Veterans Affairs through 2026. However, that does not go far enough, leaving our military members, federal workers and others in limbo. It’s time for Congress to approve a proper budget for the entire year.
“Additionally, as Congress winds down this session, lawmakers must prioritize legislation such as the Major Richard Star Act, Pay Our Troops Act and other bills that deliver on the promises made to our nation’s veterans and military families.”
Call to Action: Protect Charitable Fundraising Opportunities for Our Posts
Dear Members of The American Legion, Department of Florida,
Do you have questions or concerns regarding charitable fundraising — especially as it relates to electronic bingo? If so, we need your support and attention now more than ever.
As we continue our mission to ensure clear and fair definitions for charitable gaming through the Florida Legislature, we are facing a new challenge. Following Veterans Day, when nearly every legislator expressed how vital our role as veterans is to this nation, we once again find ourselves questioning why our ability to conduct electronic charitable fundraising remains undefined.
While current legislation in both the House and Senate includes provisions that help organizations like ours, a new potential bill replacement — HB 189 — threatens to undo that progress. If enacted, it would remove our ability to request a declaratory statement in statute and raise the penalties for unknowing violations from a misdemeanor to a felony.
This is unacceptable for an organization committed to serving veterans and their communities through legitimate, transparent charitable efforts.
If you are able, please make plans to attend the Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee meeting on
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
3:30 PM
I will be speaking in opposition to this bill takeover and urging lawmakers once again to clearly define charitable opportunities for veteran service organizations like ours.
Note: If you are unable to attend the committee meeting in Tallahassee but plan on attending the Department Fall Conference (November 21–22, 2025), you will have an opportunity to hear more about what we are doing for you and your Post during the Legislative Class on Friday at 4:00 PM.
Your presence and support make a difference. Together, we can ensure that our Posts retain the ability to raise funds that directly support veterans, their families, and our communities across Florida.
For God and Country,
Stuart Scott
Legislative Chair
The American Legion, Department of Florida
Weekly Reports for November 6, 2025
Florida Boys State: Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Through Teamwork and Dedication
Let’s be real! Boys State is not a one- or even two-month program. This program’s success includes several legionnaires and Sons’ supporters from across the state. We have so much knowledge within our ranks, including Mike Flannigan, Rebecca Sewell, Bill Trainor, Steve Vilgats, and Randy Holeyfield. On behalf of our Department Chair, Sonny Decker, and me, we thank you all for your unwavering support for the premier leadership program in Florida.
This program’s post or district chairs are not for individuals who like to work alone. It is successful when a teamwork-oriented individual engages with his or her district/post, including the schools and community, for support. As you are disbursing your applications to eligible delegates, know you are about to change a young man’s life forever. As the interviews are being conducted, please do NOT focus on GPA solely as a compass for his ability. Rather, use it as a gauge to measure his individual capability versus his ability to work and rely on others to triumph. His eagerness to engage with like-minded or diverse opinions regarding various matters and evolve a potentially new ideal—or strengthen his own view through conversation—is “KEY” to a delegate’s success.
Look at their ability to be in unfamiliar situations by simply assigning seats at your interview. This means they are sitting by a potentially awkward stranger rather than a friend. We grow and evolve at Boys State through our failures and through motivation and support for “strangers” from their cities who become brothers. That is why the chairs at the Boys District and Post levels are so important. While we would love for every boy in the state to experience “Boys State,” it simply is NOT for the young man who fails and quits or is unteachable. This program contributes to this generation’s future leaders, not participants.
If you are eager to know or share more tricks and tips, please join us at the Fall Conference on Friday, November 21, from 1–2 p.m. in the Grand Sierra G Room in Orlando.
Last month, we had the first-ever Boys State Zoom meeting, and 30 members attended. I think we had great engagement and look forward to January, when we plan on holding our next one. At that time, we hope that if you are a post or district chair, you have registered with the Department to ensure you are included in the communication process. If you have NOT received your Boys State chair information packet from Bekki Boarman, that means you need to please register with her ASAP. We had over 99 posts throughout the Department that participated in the 81st session that do NOT have the chairs listed as of the October 5, 2025, Zoom meeting.
Next month, on December 2, 2025, we will once again be participating in the “Giving Tuesday” event to collect money for Boys State. You can send a check to Bekki Boarman, and in the memo line write “BOYS STATE DONATION.” If you would like to donate online, go to Givebutter and look for Florida American Legion Boys State. These donations are tax write-offs, and if you need a receipt, the Givebutter website will be able to provide one.
Also, mark your calendars for the May 9, 2025, dinner at the Department that is scheduled to have a past Florida alumnus and senator as the guest speaker. Your support for Florida’s premier leadership program is so appreciated and comes through so many avenues—from delegates sent to assistance in funds for transportation, including enhancements that the $495 per delegate fee does not cover. You are making a difference in our youth, within the Department of Florida communities, in our armed forces, and across the nation. Thank you for your continued support and service.
Darcy Bockman-Wright
Boys State Program
The American Legion Mourns Passing of Dick Cheney
(INDIANAPOLIS—Nov. 4, 2025) – American Legion National Commander Dan K. Wiley issued the following statement today concerning the passing of former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney:
“America lost a longtime public servant, and The American Legion lost one of its most distinguished Boys State graduates. Vice President Cheney became a nationally known figure through his steady leadership as our country’s secretary of defense during the Gulf War. By the time he was elected vice president, he brought decades of experience to the George W. Bush administration and was considered by many to have enormous influence, particularly in areas of foreign policy. Nobody questioned his patriotism and love for his country. Our condolences to his family and those who knew him best in his home state of Wyoming.”
While in high school, Cheney played baseball for American Legion Post 2, in Casper, Wyo. During his time as vice president, he addressed national gatherings of The American Legion on several occasions.
“This hall is filled with distinguished Americans,” Cheney said at The American Legion 90th Convention in 2008. “You answered the nation’s call – and when you returned from duty, you kept up the habit of service by joining The American Legion. The Legion serves America by leading on important issues, from health care and education, to employment opportunities for veterans, to homeland security, to a better quality of life for our military families. You proudly wear an emblem that stands ‘for God and Country,’ and the highest rights of man.”
Weekly Reports for October 30, 2025
The American Legion Calls for Action to Preserve the Memory of Fallen Chaplains
INDIANAPOLIS (October 2025) — The American Legion is urging all members and supporters to take action to ensure that the memory of America’s fallen Chaplains is honored and preserved at Arlington National Cemetery.
Due to unclear legislation, Arlington National Cemetery officials have delayed long-overdue updates to the Chaplains Memorial, which pays tribute to the brave men and women of faith who gave their lives ministering to others in times of war and peace.
A Legislative Fix: Section 1092 of the FY2026 NDAA
The American Legion supports the inclusion of Section 1092 of the House version of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), titled “Updates and Preservation of Memorials to Chaplains at Arlington National Cemetery.”
This section would change the language in previous amendments from “may” to “shall”, ensuring that actions previously authorized to update and preserve the memorial are carried out without further delay.
Honoring 84 Chaplains Still Awaiting Recognition
The proposed updates would add the names of 84 Chaplains who served and sacrificed from the Korean War through Iraq and Afghanistan, whose names have yet to be inscribed on the memorial. For too long, these Chaplains’ courage and devotion have gone unrecognized — Section 1092 would finally correct that oversight.
How You Can Help
The American Legion is asking all members and supporters to contact their two U.S. Senators and House Representative and urge them to support Representative Keating’s amendment and include Section 1092 in the final NDAA bill.
Your voice can help ensure that the legacy of these Chaplains is preserved for generations to come.
️ Take action now: Send a message to Congress through our VoterVoice campaign.
Weekly Reports for October 23, 2025
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
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 October 9, 2025
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?
Weekly Reports for October 2, 2025
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.