Stan Martin sworn in as new commander of Warwick’s American Legion Post 214
Warwick. Other officers also named in non-traditional ceremony.
| 30 Jun 2020 | 02:31
Stan Martin named commander of Warwick’s American Legion Nicholas P. Lesando Jr. Post 214. Photo by Roger Gavan.
In a recent ceremony Stan Martin became the new commander of Warwick’s Nicholas P. Lesando Jr. American Legion Post 214.
The non-traditional installation was conducted in the Legion’s parking lot adjacent to Veteran’s Memorial Park complete with face masks and social distancing.
Officiating at the swearing-in was Walter Parkinson, a past commander known for his Memorial Day talks to scouts and other youngsters at Warwick Cemetery on Memorial Day.
Officers
Additional officers of Post 214 include 1st vice commander and historian Tom Brennan, 2nd vice commander Mark Arnowitz, 3rd vice commander and immediate past commander Jerry Schacher, adjutant Fred Houston, treasurer Frank Gilner, chaplain Joe Hildebrant, sergeant-at-arms Bob Fletcher, membership chair and assistant treasurer Don McFarland, service officer and quartermaster Laura Smykla, compliance officer Walter Parkinson, homeland security officer Charles Martinez and judge advocate Gregory Hoover Sr.
Service
Martin, a 29-year member of Post 214, previous served as first, second and third vice commanders. He is the former editor and publisher of The Warwick Advertiser, a past president of the Warwick Valley Rotary Club and was named Warwick’s Citizen of the Years for 2017-2018.
He served as an Army Signal Corps captain in charge of five communications sites in Northern Germany and Holland, providing support for NATO troops. After completing his active duty service, he used the GI Bill to earn two master’s degrees at the University of Utah: a Master in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Journalism.
‘We remain optimistic’
Martin said he was deeply honored to be the newest commander in a long list of outstanding Post 214 leaders.
“During these stressful times,” he added, “we remain optimistic but cautious for the health of our 135 members. Hopefully, our loyal members and a corps of enthusiastic new recruits will allow us to return of having fun, fellowship and providing service to fellow veterans and to our community.”
For additional information on Warwick’s American Legion Post 214, visit its website, Facebook page or call 986-1290.
- Roger Gavan