David “Dave” DeLong

It is with deep regret that we report the passing of Past Department Commander, David “Dave” DeLong, of Tampa, FL on Thursday, July 26, 2018 at the age of 83. Dave is survived by his wife, Ann. Funeral Services will be held at American Legion Post 5, 3810 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, Florida on Saturday, August 11, 2018 at 12:00pm.

Dave is a U.S. Army Korean war veteran and a member of Post 138, with 43 continuous years of membership.

Dave served many roles during his impressive career in The American Legion. Dave served as Post Adjutant for eleven years in 1979-82, 2003-08 & 2011-14. He served as Post Commander in 1981-82 and with his leadership the Post reached an all-time high in membership. In the year 1986-87 he served as Department Membership Chairman. That year the Department of Florida rose to a figure higher than 100,000 for the first time in its history and was the first Department to reach 100% in membership. He served as Department Vice Commander for the Central Area in 1991-92, where he again reached an all-time high in membership for the Central Area.  In 1995-96, he served as Department Commander.

If you would like to send your condolences you may do so through his wife, Ann, at 4711 W. El Prado Blvd., Tampa, FL 33629.