It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Angelo, Sergeant-at-Arms Emeritus of American Legion Post 4, who was called to Post Everlasting on October 9, 2026.
Mike was a loyal and devoted member of Post 4 who carried out his duties as Sergeant-at-Arms with unwavering dedication, honor, and military pride. He faithfully served his Post for many years, continuing his commitment until declining health prevented him from attending meetings.
His steadfast service, loyalty, and devotion to The American Legion will always be remembered by his fellow Legionnaires and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mike’s family, friends, and fellow Legionnaires.
Mike, we have your watch. Your duty is done. Rest easy, comrade.
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Eleanore “Ellie” Denslow, a 21-year member of Dunedin Memorial Post 275. Ellie passed away on October 3, 2026.
Ellie honorably served our nation in the United States Army and was a longtime advocate for women veterans. Her commitment to service continued through The American Legion, where she served as Adjutant of Post 275 for 10 years. In that role, Ellie was a cornerstone of the Post’s Executive Committee, providing years of dedicated leadership, hard work, and support to the entire Post 275 family.
Ellie will be remembered for her generosity, warm smile, unique sense of humor, and love of animals. Her dedication touched many lives, and her presence will be deeply missed by her fellow Legionnaires, the Post 275 family, and the local community.
The American Legion, Department of Florida, extends its heartfelt condolences to Ellie’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside her.
Rest in peace, Ellie. Your service and dedication will not be forgotten.
We are saddened to announce the passing of Mal Clingan, a dedicated member of Dunedin Memorial Post 275 and a longtime supporter of veterans and The American Legion Family.
Mal proudly served in Vietnam as a combat medic and was wounded in action. His commitment to service continued throughout his life. He served for many years on Post 275’s Executive Committee, chaired the Post’s Boys State program, rode with American Legion Riders Chapter 275, and served five times as Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart JFK Chapter 1963.
Mal was a devoted advocate for veterans and members of the Legion Family. He and his wife, DeeDee, shared 43 years of marriage and could often be found together at the Post or Fairway Pizza, cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs through both wins and losses.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Curlew Hills Memory Gardens, 1750 Curlew Road, Palm Harbor, FL 34683, followed by a Celebration of Life at Dunedin Memorial Post 275, 360 Wilson Street, Dunedin, FL 34698.
Our deepest condolences are extended to DeeDee, Mal’s family, friends, and fellow Legion Family members. His many years of service and dedication to veterans will be remembered.
It is with solemn respect that we announce the passing of Kenny Sullivan, a member of American Legion Post 55.
A Celebration of Life will be held on October 19, 2026, at The 19th Hole in Four Corners, Florida. No additional service information has been provided at this time.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fellow Legionnaires.
It is with solemn respect that we announce the passing of George Young, a member of American Legion Post 55 in Clermont, Florida, who entered Post Everlasting on September 9, 2026.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fellow Legionnaires during this time of loss.
May his service, dedication, and memory never be forgotten.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Southwestern Area Commander Steven Slachta of Bonita Springs, Florida. Steven passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at the age of 84.
Steven is survived by his beloved wife, Yvonne Slachta; his daughters, Vanessa and Katrina; and his son, Eric. Service details are not yet available. Information regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as it becomes available.
Steven proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1979 to 2002 and was a devoted member of Bonita Springs Post 303. He faithfully served The American Legion for 34 continuous years.
Throughout his many years of dedicated service, Steven made a lasting contribution to veterans, his community, and The American Legion. He served as Commander of Bonita Springs Post 303 from 2006 to 2014, and later served as Post Adjutant and Judge Advocate from 2021 to 2023. His service extended beyond the Post level, serving as 13th District Commander from 2010 to 2012, Southwestern Area Commander from 2012 to 2013, and Department National Security Chair from 2013 to 2014.
Those wishing to extend their condolences may do so by sending them to his wife at:
Yvonne Slachta
28920 Regis Ct.
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Please keep Steven’s family, friends, and fellow Legionnaires in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Northern Area Commander Joseph E. “Joe” Nolan of Jacksonville, Florida. Joe passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026, at the age of 83.
Joe is survived by his three sons, David, Matthew, and Justin. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at 2:30 PM at American Legion Post 316, located at 1127 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, FL 32233.
Joe proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era and was a devoted member of Atlantic Beach Post 316. He faithfully served The American Legion for 45 continuous years.
Throughout his many years of dedicated service, Joe made a lasting contribution to veterans, his community, and The American Legion. He served as Commander of Ponte Vedra Beach Post 233 from 1993 to 1994 and as Post Adjutant from 1999 to 2002. He served as Department Commander’s Aide to Clarence Hill from 2002 to 2003 and as 5th District Commander from 2003 to 2004. He later served as Northern Area Commander from 2008 to 2009, Commander of Atlantic Beach Post 316 from 2010 to 2011, and Department Internal Affairs Chair from 2016 to 2018. He also served on the Boys State Board from 2019 to 2021 and as Post Chaplain of Atlantic Beach Post 316 from 2020 to 2024. At the national level, Joe served as Vice Chair of The American Legion National Distinguished Guests Committee from 2002 to 2008.
Please keep Joe’s family, friends, and fellow Legionnaires in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of VA&R Chair Alan B. Cohen of Tamarac, Florida. Alan passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at the age of 78.
Alan is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa Hoyland, his sons, Thomas and Michael, and his granddaughter, Ashley. Service details are not yet available. Information regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as it becomes available.
Alan was a proud U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam era and a devoted member of Cooper City Post 321. He faithfully served The American Legion for 15 continuous years.
Throughout his years of dedicated service, Alan made a lasting contribution to veterans and The American Legion. He served as the Department Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission Chair since 2016 and had been a member of the National Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission since 2016, serving as its Vice Chair since 2022. Alan also served on the National Legislative Council from 2021 through 2023.
Those wishing to extend their condolences may do so by sending them to his wife at:
Lisa Hoyland
5302 Date Palm Pl
Tamarac, FL 33319
The graveside service will take place on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM at:
South Florida National Cemetery
6501 S. State Road 7
Lake Worth, FL
Attendees are asked to arrive by 9:30 AM and report to Lane 5.
A Celebration of Life will also be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 1:00 PM at:
American Legion Post 321
9081 SW 51st Street
Cooper City, FL
Please keep Alan’s family, friends, and fellow Legionnaires in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
We are deeply saddened to announce that U. Eason Bennett Jr. transferred to Post Everlasting on July 10, 2026.
Eason was a proud Korean War veteran and a dedicated member of American Legion Post 54 in Fernandina Beach for 46 years. At 96 years old, his commitment to The American Legion never wavered. He faithfully attended every General Membership meeting and could also be found at the post nearly every Friday and Saturday evening, enjoying the camaraderie and supporting the post’s family dinners.
Eason embraced life with the same enthusiasm that defined his service and dedication. When he celebrated his 90th birthday, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by skydiving—and he did it with a smile. Just days before his passing, he joined fellow Legionnaires in celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary at Post 54, continuing his tradition of being present for the people and the organization he loved.
Eason’s kindness, loyalty, and unmistakable presence touched everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his Legion family, his friends, and his community.
A Celebration of Life honoring Eason will be held at Post 54 on October 10, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. We invite all who knew and loved him to join us as we celebrate a life well lived and a Legionnaire whose legacy of friendship, service, and dedication will never be forgotten.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Women Veterans Chair Deborah D. “Debbie” Wheeler of Dunedin, Florida. Debbie passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the age of 66.
Service details are not yet available. Updates regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as they become available.
Debbie was a proud U.S. Air Force veteran of the Lebanon/Grenada era and a devoted member of Dunedin Post 275. She faithfully served The American Legion for 30 continuous years.
Throughout her many years of dedicated service, Debbie served as Post Service Officer from 2019 through 2025, Post 2nd Vice Commander from 2021 through 2022, Department Women Veterans Chair from 2019 through 2022, and Department Women Veterans Vice Chair from 2022 through 2023. She also served as a member of National’s Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Council from 2015 through 2016 and the National Security Council from 2018 through 2025.
In the Department of West Virginia, Debbie served as Department Oratorical Chair and 3rd District Commander in 2001.
Please keep Debbie’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Finance Chair Robert D. “Bob” Plafchan of Avon Park, Florida. Bob passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the age of 84.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Plafchan. The family has elected to honor Bob’s wishes, and no services or events will be held following his passing.
Bob was a proud U.S. Navy veteran and a devoted member of Avon Park Post 69. He faithfully served The American Legion for 28 continuous years.
Throughout his many years of dedicated service, Bob served as Post Finance Officer from 2020 through 2021, District 8 Adjutant from 2014 through 2024, and as a member of the Department Finance Committee from 2019 through 2025. He also served as Chair of the Department Finance Committee from 2024 through 2025.
Condolences may be sent to his wife at:
Carol Plafchan
1628 W. Orangewood Ct.
Avon Park, FL 33828
Please keep Bob’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Veteran Clifford Charles Williamson of New Brunswick, New Jersey. Clifford passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the age of 57. He was a proud and active member of American Legion Post 181 in Gifford, Florida.
Clifford is survived by his beloved wife of 14 years, Tosha Williamson; his daughter, Elizabeth Williamson; his stepdaughters, Jasmine Richardson and Zaria Wallace; his son-in-law, Brandon Wallace; and his four cherished grandchildren, Naveah, Afeni, Major, and Legacie. He is also survived by his brothers, Jack Conrad Williamson, Jr. and Jack Conrad Williamson III, and his sisters, Emily McDonald and Misty Jane Concklin.
A United States Army veteran, Clifford served his country with honor and distinction. He was employed by Jacobs Engineering for the past two and a half years and remained committed to service through his continued and devoted membership in The American Legion.
Clifford leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to his family, fellow veterans, and community.
Those wishing to extend their condolences may contact his wife at:
Tosha Williamson 772-205-4613
Please keep Clifford’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Nicholas Bazan passed away on January 14, 2026. Nick was a Vietnam War veteran who served in the U.S. Air Force and a proud member of Babcock Ranch Post 415.
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Past National Chaplain Robert A. “Bob” Vick, III of New Port Richey, Florida. Bob passed away on January 4, 2026, at the age of 90.
He is survived by his loving wife, Marion Vick; their four sons, Robert, Carl, Aaron, and Dale; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
At this time, service details are not yet available. Updates will be shared via email and posted on our website as soon as they are received.
Bob was a proud U.S. Navy veteran of the Korean War era and a devoted member of New Port Richey Post 79. He faithfully served The American Legion for 44 continuous years.
An ordained minister, Bob served as Department Chaplain from 2009 through 2013 and as National Chaplain from 2017 through 2018. Throughout his life, he remained deeply committed to his calling as a Chaplain, offering guidance, comfort, and spiritual support to Legionnaires and their families.
Those wishing to extend their condolences may do so by writing to his wife at:
Marion Vick
6905 Florida Elm Dr.
New Port Richey, FL 34653
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Southwestern Area Commander Jerry T. Faught of Rotonda West, Florida. Jerry passed away on the afternoon of Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the age of 80. He was a proud and dedicated member of Rotonda West Post 113.
Jerry is survived by his son, Jerry M., and three daughters: Penny Rae, Candy Lynn, and Amanda. He was preceded in death by his longtime companion, Past Department President Ruth Proctor.
Service details are not yet available. Updates regarding arrangements will be shared on the Department’s website as they become available.
A U.S. Navy veteran of the Vietnam era, Jerry faithfully served his country and community.
A devoted Legionnaire with 18 years of continuous membership in The American Legion, he held numerous roles at every level of the organization throughout his many years of service.
At the Post level, he served in multiple capacities, including Adjutant from 2010 to 2011 and again from 2012 to 2013. He went on to serve as 3rd Vice Commander during 2017–2018, 1st Vice Commander from 2015 to 2017 and again from 2018 to 2019, and as Post Commander for the terms 2011–2012, 2013–2015, and 2020–2022. At the District level, Jerry served as 8th District Vice Commander from 2016 to 2017 and as 8th District Commander from 2017 to 2019.
At the Department level, he served on the Time & Place Committee from 2017 to 2022, including as Committee Chair from 2017 to 2018. He also served as Southwestern Area Commander from 2019 to 2021 and as National Cemetery Chair from 2021 to 2022. At the National level, Jerry served on both the National Security Council and the Legislative Council from 2016 to 2021.
Please keep Jerry’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Past Department Commander Thomas C. “Tom” Seitzinger, Jr., of Winter Haven, Florida. Tom passed away on November 10, 2025, at the age of 82.
He is survived by his three children: sons Steven and Robert, and daughter Janet. He was preceded in death by his longtime companion, Bonnie Willard.
Service details are not available at this time. Updates will be shared via email and posted on our website as soon as they are received.
Tom was a proud U.S. Army and Vietnam War veteran, as well as a devoted member of Winter Haven Post 8. He faithfully served The American Legion for 36 continuous years.
Throughout his decades of dedication, Tom held numerous leadership roles at every level of the organization. At the Post level, he served in multiple capacities, including Post Adjutant (1998–1999, 2001–2004, and 2005–2012), earning the Best Overall Post Adjutant Award at the 2002 Department Convention, and Post Commander (1999–2000). At the District level, he served as District Executive Committeeman (now District Vice Commander) (1997–1999) and 7th District Commander (2000–2001).
At the Department level, Tom served as Department Information Technology & Management Chair (2001–2003), Department Membership Chair (2001–2002), where he surpassed 104% membership and achieved an all-time high, Central Area Commander (2002–2003), Department Vice Commander (2003–2004), and Department Commander (2004–2005). At the National level, he served as Vice Chair of the Foreign Relations Council (2002–2009).
Tom’s legacy of leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to The American Legion will be remembered with gratitude.
Charles (Charlie) Edward O’Donnell, age 76, passed away on November 7, 2025, from complications related to exposure to Agent Orange, the deadly defoliant used by the U.S. government during the Vietnam War.
Despite his small frame—Charlie weighed just 115 pounds—he was chosen from his company for one of the most grueling, dangerous, and thankless assignments in the military. Armed only with a small-caliber handgun, he was sent into the narrow tunnels used by the Viet Cong to conceal and transport troops and supplies. His mission was to locate the enemy and capture or eliminate them—a task that would leave lasting effects on his health for the rest of his life.
Though small in stature, Charlie possessed one of the biggest hearts imaginable, a quality that defined his life both in and out of uniform.
After his honorable discharge in 1972, Charlie’s service to others never stopped. He dedicated himself to helping his fellow veterans, working as a Veterans Affairs Disability Claims Processor for 35 years until his retirement in 2004.
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.
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.
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.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Angelo, Sergeant-at-Arms Emeritus of American Legion Post 4, who was called to Post Everlasting on October 9, 2026.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Women Veterans Chair Deborah D. “Debbie” Wheeler of Dunedin, Florida. Debbie passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the age of 66.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Department Finance Chair Robert D. “Bob” Plafchan of Avon Park, Florida. Bob passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the age of 84.
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Past Southwestern Area Commander Jerry T. Faught of Rotonda West, Florida. Jerry passed away on the afternoon of Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the age of 80. He was a proud and dedicated member of Rotonda West Post 113.
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Past Department Commander Thomas C. “Tom” Seitzinger, Jr., of Winter Haven, Florida. Tom passed away on November 10, 2025, at the age of 82.
