Post 43 Naperville, Illinois

Post 43

Naperville, Illinois

Post 43 Naperville, Illinois

About This Post

Post Namesake
In Naperville, over 300 young men, roughly 10% of the population at that time went into the service during WWI. When our men came home they wanted to start a Post in Naperville. The Post name represents all Naperville Veterans. ... READ MORE
What Makes this Post Unique
We have a “PLAN”!!!! Shortly after WW I, when 126 Veterans filed with the State of Illinois for a “charter” that was approved by National, Post 43 was officially chartered on August 1st, 1920. This was when Post 43 began ... READ MORE

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HISTORY

1910

Application for American Legion Charter

Jun 25, 1919
According to notes on the Charter Application, 15 veterans signed and sent an application to the State American Legion. The application was received by the State on June 27th.
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Charter issued

Jul 5, 1919
Charter signed by the State for Naperville Post 43
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First Meeting of the Naperville American Legion Post 43

Jul 24, 1919
A notice was placed in the Naperville Clarion announcing the first meeting of Naperville Post 43 at the 5th Regiment Illinois Reserve Militia Armory on Thursday, July 24, 1919. All sailors, soldiers and marines, whether members or not, were invited to "learn the many advantages this organization offers to those who were in military service during the late war". So where was the Armory? According to the Blue Book of the State of Illinois: State..
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First Commander Naperville Post 43 - 1919

First Commander Naperville Post 43 - 1919

Jul 24, 1919
Chauncey Reed was born in West Chicago, Illinois. He was city treasurer of West Chicago, Illinois, in 1913 and 1914. He graduated from the Webster College of Law in Chicago, Illinois, in 1915. He was admitted to the bar that same year and commenced practice in Naperville, Illinois. During the First World War, Reed served as a sergeant in the 86th Infantry Division. He resumed his law practice in Naperville upon his return from the..
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1920

Second Commander Naperville Post 43 - 1920

Jan 15, 1920
The 2nd Commander of Naperville Post 43 (1920) was Win G. Knoch, born May 24, 1895 in Naperville. After law school and service in World War I he entered a law partnership with future congressman and first commander of Naperville American Legion Post 43 Chauncey Reed. This led to his position as Assistant State's Attorney for DuPage County in 1920. He was a DuPage County Judge from 1930 -- 1942, U. S. District Court Judge..
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Second Commander Naperville Post 43 - 1920

Post 43 Organizes Annual Memorial Day Parade

May 31, 1920
In 1920, the Naperville American Legion Post 43 took over the organization of the annual Memorial Day Parade from the Grand Army of the Republic and with the Veterans of Foreign Wars has maintained responsibility for this popular local event ever since.
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Third Commander Naperville Post 43 - 1921

Sep 16, 1920
George Ester was born in Naperville, Illinois on March 27, 1893. Shortly after the country declared war he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for 18 months. A good share of this time was spent on the high seas with a submarine crew which operated out of the naval base in the Azore Islands. After his discharge he returned to Naperville for several years during which time he served as the 3rd Commander (1921)..
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Third Commander Naperville Post 43 - 1921
Fourth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1921-1922)

Fourth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1921-1922)

Jul 21, 1921
Robert D. Bradlee was a WWI veteran. He served as the 4th Commander of Naperville American Legion Post 43 1921-1922.
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Fifth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1922-1923)

Jul 20, 1922
Oscar Rohr was a WWI veteran. He served as the 5th Commander of Naperville American Legion Post 43 1922-1923.
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Fifth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1922-1923)
Sixth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1923-1924)

Sixth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1923-1924)

Jul 19, 1923
Claude Grimes served in the US Navy in WWI. He was the 6th CDR of Post 43 1923-1924. Claude died January 15, 1975 and is buried in Naperville Cemetery.
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Seventh Commander Naperville Post 43 (1924-1925)

Jul 17, 1924
Paul Herman Boecker, Sr was born March 12, 1896 in Naperville, Illinois. He served in WWI and later became the Seventh Commander of Post 43 1924-1925. He served as Naperville City Treasurer from April 30 1931-April 16, 1935. Paul died on September 5, 1949 in Naperville and was buried in Naperville Cemetery.
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Seventh Commander Naperville Post 43 (1924-1925)
Eighth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1925-1926)

Eighth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1925-1926)

Jul 16, 1925
R.A. Anderson became the Eighth Commander of Naperville Post 43 1925-1926.
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Dedication of the Spirit of American Doughboy Statue

May 31, 1926
This statue was originally dedicated May 31, 1926 and was designed by artist E.M. Viquesney. Purchased by the Naperville American Legion Post 43, it was erected in honor of all those from Naperville who served in World War I. The inscription on the base of the statue reads, "To Perpetuate the Memory of Veterans of the World War 1914-1918." Surrounding the statue are seven stones honoring the seven "Naperville boys" who gave their lives in..
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Dedication of the Spirit of American Doughboy Statue
Ninth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1926-1927)

Ninth Commander Naperville Post 43 (1926-1927)

Jul 15, 1926
Edward W. Johnson became the Ninth Commander of Naperville Post 43 1926-1927.
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10th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1927-1928)

Jul 21, 1927
James Sheehan was the 10th Commander of Post 43.
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10th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1927-1928)
11th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1928-1929)

11th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1928-1929)

Jul 19, 1928
Edward Ullrich was a WWI veteran. He served as the 11th Commander of Naperville Post 43 1928-1929.
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12th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1929-1930)

Jul 18, 1929
Fred Galow was a WWI veteran. He served as the 12th Commander of Naperville Post 43 in 1929-1930.
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12th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1929-1930)

1930

13th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1930-1931)

13th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1930-1931)

Jul 17, 1930
Frank F. Enck served as the 13th Commander of Post 43 1930-1931. He was a veteran of both World Wars. Frank was a graduate of Naperville High. Following WWI, he attended Loyola University. While at Loyola, he was Treasurer of Xi Psi Phi Dental Fraternity (1923) and Assistant Editor of Dentos (The Loyola University School of Dentistry yearbook). During WWII Dr. Enck served as a major in the Pacific theater of operations.
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14th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1931-1932)

Jul 16, 1931
Herbert P Thompson was a veteran of WWI. He served as the 14th Commander of Post 43 1931-1932.
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14th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1931-1932)
15th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1932-1933)

15th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1932-1933)

Jul 21, 1932
William R. Friedrich was a veteran of WWI. He served as the 15th Commander of Post 43 1932-1933. During the height of the Great Depression in the 1930s, a permanent memorial committee was appointed to oversee the acquisition and development of the land. William R. Friedrich was a member of that committee. The committee and local citizens funded the purchase of the land that became Centennial Beach.
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16th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1933-1934)

Jul 20, 1933
L.A.Clemens was the 16th Post Commander 1933-1934.
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16th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1933-1934)
17th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1934-1935)

17th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1934-1935)

Jul 19, 1934
Carl F. Rang was a WWI veteran. He was born September 19, 1894. Carl served as the 17th Commander of Naperville Post 43 1934-1935. He Died in October 1968 at 74 years of age.
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18th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1935-1936)

Jul 18, 1935
Frank Hiltenbrand was a WWI veteran. Frank served as the 18th Commander of Naperville Post 43 1935-1936.
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18th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1935-1936)
19th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1936-1939)

19th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1936-1939)

Jul 16, 1936
O. G. Wheaton served as the 19th Commander of Naperville Post 43 for a 3 year term, 1934-1937, 1937-1938 and 1938-1939.
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20th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1939-1940)

Jul 20, 1939
Edwin Petterson was a WWI veteran who served as the 20th Commander of Naperville Post 43 1939-1940.
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20th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1939-1940)

1940

21st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1940-1941)

21st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1940-1941)

Jul 18, 1940
George A. Erickson became the 21st Commander of Naperville Post 43 1940-1941.
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22nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1941-1942)

Jul 17, 1941
Clyde L. Savage was the 22nd Commander of Naperville Post 43 1941-1942.
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22nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1941-1942)
23rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1942-1943)

23rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1942-1943)

Jul 16, 1942
Scott Hamlin Fry was born December 3, 1895 in Naperville. He served in WWI returning to Naperville to raise a family. He was a self-employed carpenter. He became the 23rd Commander of Post 43 1942-1943. Scott died February 9, 1962 and is buried in Naperville Cemetery.
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24th CommanderNaperville Post 43 (1943-1944)

Jul 23, 1943
Alex L. Alger became the 24th Commander of Naperville Post 43 1943-1944.
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24th CommanderNaperville Post 43 (1943-1944)
25th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1944-1945)

25th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1944-1945)

Jul 20, 1944
Raymond Sollenberger a WWI veteran became the 25th Commander of Post 43 1944-1945.
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26th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1945-1946)

Jul 19, 1945
Theodore (Ted) F. Boecker Jr.served in France during World War I in the 79th Division of the U.S. Field Artillery. He became the 26th Commander of Post 43 1945-1946. Ted was in the family business called Boecker Coal and Grain Company that was started by his grandfather in 1868. Boecker Coal and Grain served the local farmers and citizens of the Naperville area for over 100 years. Ted was a founding member of the Naperville..
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26th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1945-1946)

Past Naperville Post Commander is Grand Marshall

May 31, 1946
Hundreds of World War II veterans were back in Naperville and took their places in the marching columns of uniformed men, paying homage to their comrades who lost their lives in the conflict. Dr. Frank F. Enck, a veteran of both World Wars and 13th Commander of Naperville Post 43, served as Grand Marshall. During WWII he served as a major in the Pacific theater of operations.
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27th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1946-1947)

Jul 18, 1946
C. Dean Perry became the 27th Commander of Post 43 1946-1947.
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27th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1946-1947)
Naperville Post 43

Naperville Post 43

May 29, 1947
American Legion Post 43 opened its huge 1947 Carnival on the Martin-Mitchell grounds on May 29th 1947. A large dance floor was erected, and music was furnished each evening. There were children's carnival rides, games for all ages and more. The tradition of an annual carnival began in the 1940's. The proceeds from the carnival were used to support. We do know that the one such Carnival raised funds to purchase Squad 1 a 1941..
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28th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1947-1948)

Jul 17, 1947
Edward Phillips Jr. became the 28th Commander of Post 43 1947-1948.
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28th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1947-1948)
29th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1948-1949)

29th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1948-1949)

Jul 15, 1948
Ted J. Miller became the 29th Commander of Post 43 1948-1949.
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30th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1949-1950)

Jul 21, 1949
George Ramsay became the 30th Commander of Post 43 1949-1950.
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30th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1949-1950)

1950

31st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1950-1951)

31st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1950-1951)

Jul 20, 1950
John Haight became the 31st Commander of Post 43 1950-1951.
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32nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1951-1952)

Jul 19, 1951
Fred C. Heinke became the 32nd Commander of Post 43 1951-1952. He again served as the 58th Commander of Post 43 1977-1978.
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32nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1951-1952)
33rd Commander of Naperville Post 43 (1952-1953)

33rd Commander of Naperville Post 43 (1952-1953)

Jul 17, 1952
Dan C. Simmons became the 33rd Commander of Post 43 1952-1953 and returned again in 1954-1955 to become the 35th Commander.
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34th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1953-1954)

Jul 16, 1953
William Kuhrt became the 34th Commander of Post 43 in 1953-1954.
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34th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1953-1954)
35th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1954-1955)

35th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1954-1955)

Jul 15, 1954
Dan C. Simmons became the 35th Commander 1954-1955. He previously served as the 33rd Commander 1952-1953.
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36th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1955-1956)

Jul 21, 1955
Leroy Rechenmacher became the 36th Commander of Post 43 1955-1956.
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36th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1955-1956)
37th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1956-1957)

37th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1956-1957)

Jul 20, 1956
Ralph Carpenter became the 37th Commander of Post 43 1956-1957.
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38th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1957-1958)

Jul 18, 1957
Howard Esser Jr. became the 38th Commander of Post 43 1957-1958.
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38th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1957-1958)
39th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1958-1959)

39th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1958-1959)

Jul 17, 1958
Martin S. Shimp became the 39th Commander of Post 43 1958-1959.
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40th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1959-1960)

Jul 16, 1959

Vernon “Vern” Blum, born June 12, 1920, was a lifelong resident of Naperville, Illinois. He was a graduate of SS. Peter & Paul Grade School, Class of 1934, Naperville High School, Class of 1938 and later attended night school at Aurora College, Aurora, IL (now Aurora University).

Vern served his country during World War II as a member of the 900th Signal Company, Depot Aviation, with the 8th and 9th Army Air Force in England, France,..

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40th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1959-1960)

1960

41st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1960-1961)

41st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1960-1961)

Jul 21, 1960
Rex Martin served as the 41st Post Commander 1960-1961.
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42nd Commander Naperviile Post 42 (1961-1962)

Jul 20, 1961
Don Wehrli was the 42nd Commander of Naperville Post 43, 1961-1962. He was born in Naperville February 28, 1928 the 7th of 13 children. He attended Saints Peter and Paul grade and Naperville High School (class of 1946). Don, whose family roots in Naperville go back to the 1840s, was married to his childhood sweetheart Jean Knoch whose family also trace its roots in Naperville to the 1800’s. She was the daughter of Appellate and..
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42nd Commander Naperviile Post 42 (1961-1962)
43rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1962-1963)

43rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1962-1963)

Jul 19, 1962
Donald L. Clark served as the 43rd Post Commander, 1962-1963.
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44th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1963-1964)

Jul 16, 1963
Chris J. Manney served as the 44th Post Commander, 1963-1964.
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44th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1963-1964)
45th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1964-1965)

45th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1964-1965)

Jul 16, 1964
Walter Walsh served as the 45th Post Commander, 1964-1965.
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46th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1965-1966)

Jul 15, 1965
James Kluckhohm served as the 46th Post Commander, 1965-1966.
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47th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1966-1967)

47th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1966-1967)

Jul 21, 1966
Mark Prestholt served as the 47th Post Commander, 1966-1967.
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48th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1967-1968)

Jul 20, 1967
John Watson Brown was born in Rockford Illinois on July 18, 1920. He served in the Army and then the Army Air Force during World War II attaining the rank of Corporal. Following his service, he lived in Chicago for a time. In 1965, he moved to Naperville, Illinois with his wife and four children. He served as the 48th Commander of American Legion Post 43 from 1967-1968. He would once again serve Post 43..
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48th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1967-1968)
49th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1968-1969)

49th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1968-1969)

Jul 18, 1968
Paul Hogan served as 49th Post Commander, 1968-1969.
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50th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1969-1970)

Jul 17, 1969
Frank Kyncel served as 50th Post Commander, 1969-1970.
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50th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1969-1970)

1970

51st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1970-1971)

51st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1970-1971)

Jul 16, 1970
Floyd Thompson served as 51st Post Commander, 1970-1971 and returned to serve as the Post's 57th Commander, 1976-1977. Born March 5, 1922, in Chicago, Floyd moved to Naperville Illinois at the age of two and called Naperville home for the rest of his life. He graduated from Naperville High School in 1941, before serving as a radioman first class in the Coast Guard during World War II. Upon returning from military service, he founded the..
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Post 43 Jr. Vice dies while serving the people of Naperville

Dec 7, 1970
Lt Richard (Rex) Rechenmacher served in the U.S. Coast Guard during WWII as a Head Machinist Mate He served in combat from 1942 to 1946 in the Marianas, Solomons, Philippines, Tokyo Bay. Returning to Naperville he joined the volunteer Fire department and worked full time as a Postal Worker. On December 7, 1970 while responding to a house fire he died along with two other firefighters when the fire truck in which they were riding..
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Post 43 Jr. Vice dies while serving the people of Naperville
52nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1971-1972)

52nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1971-1972)

Jul 15, 1971
Ronald Nance served as 52nd Post Commander, 1971-1972.
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53rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1972-1973)

Jul 20, 1972
Our 53rd Commander, Michael A. Rechenmacher was born July 7, 1948 at St. Joseph hospital in Aurora Illinois. He is a lifelong citizen of Naperville. His father was active in Naperville American Legion Post 43 and Mike remembers helping his father set up for Friday night Bingo. He claims he earned a soda for his endeavors. Mike Joined the U.S. Navy in 1968 and reported to Treasure Island, California for duty station orders. He requested..
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53rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1972-1973)
54th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1973-1974)

54th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1973-1974)

Jul 20, 1973
Leonard Saul served as 54th Post Commander, 1973-1974.
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55th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1974-1975)

Jul 18, 1974
Charles Koretke served as 55th Post Commander, 1974-1975.
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55th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1974-1975)
56th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1975-1976)

56th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1975-1976)

Jul 17, 1975
Terrence "Terry" Jelinek served in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam. He became the 56th Commander of Post 43 1975-1976. He returned to serve as the 64th Commander in 1983-1984, again 1996 to 1998 as a 2 term 73th Commander and once again as the 80th Commander Post 43, 2012-2013.
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Naperville Post 43 Citizen of the Year Genevive Townsley and Barbara Bean

Apr 17, 1976
The American Legion Post 43 Naperville Illinois Citizen of the Year award started to recognize and to encourage extraordinary service to the Naperville community or to the Nation. In later years Wayne Fischer in summing up the spirit of the award would state “One of our Nation’s key strengths is strong ‘community spirit. For that reason, we want to acknowledge the efforts and achievements of local people." Nominations were accepted from all citizens of Naperville..
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57th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1976-1977)

57th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1976-1977)

Jul 15, 1976
Floyd Thompson served as 57th Post Commander, 1976-1977. He previously served as the Post's 51st Commander, 1970-1971. Born March 5, 1922, in Chicago, Floyd moved to Naperville Illinois at the age of two and called Naperville home for the rest of his life. He graduated from Naperville High School in 1941, before serving as a radioman first class in the Coast Guard during World War II. Upon returning from military service, he founded the Naperville..
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58th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1977-1978)

Jul 21, 1977
Fred C. Heinke became the 58th Commander of Post 43, 1977-1978. He previously served as 32nd Post Commander, 1951-1952.
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58th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1977-1978)
59th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1978-1979)

59th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1978-1979)

Jul 20, 1978
James Saul served as 59th Post Commander,1978-1979.
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60th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1979-1980)

Jul 19, 1979
Donald Schultz served as 60th Post Commander, 1979-1980.
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60th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1979-1980)

1980

61st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1980-1981)

61st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1980-1981)

Jul 17, 1980
Past Commander W. Richard "Dick" Knosher was born in Naperville on June 3, 1919. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during WWII. He served "3 years, 11 months, and 1 day." Initially Dick was assigned to the Band, but later was given the rating 137 ( Motion Picture Projectionist). Upon leaving the service he returned to Naperville, the town he loves, to raise his familiy with his wife Millie. He was hired by Hines..
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Sixty-First Commander Naperville Post 43 (1981-1982)

Jul 18, 1981
Leroy Rechenmacher became the 61st commander of Naperville Post 43 in 1981. He previously served as the 36th commander in 1955-1957.
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Sixty-First Commander Naperville Post 43 (1981-1982)
63rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1982-1983)

63rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1982-1983)

Jul 15, 1982
John Watson Brown was born in Rockford Illinois on July 18, 1920. He served in the Army and then the Army Air Force during World War II attaining the rank of Corporal. Following his service, he lived in Chicago for a time. In 1965, he moved to Naperville, Illinois with his wife and four children. He served as the 48th Commander of American Legion Post 43 from 1967-1968. He would once again serve Post 43..
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64th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1983-1984)

Jul 21, 1983
Terry Jelinek served as the 64th Commander, 1983-1984. He previously served as the 56th Commander of Post 43, 1975-1976. Terry would return again as the 2 term 73th Commander 1996-1998 and once again as the 80th Commander Post 43, 2012-2013. Terry served in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam.
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64th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1983-1984)
65th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1984-1985)

65th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1984-1985)

Jul 17, 1984
John Kunsch served as 65th Post Commander, 1984-1985.
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66th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1985-1987)

Jul 18, 1985
Clarence Rueffer served a two year term as Commander of Post 43, 1985-1987.
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66th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1985-1987)

Citizen of the Year 1986 - Jack Shiffler

Apr 19, 1986

The American Legion Post 43 Naperville Illinois Citizen of the Year award was first presnted in 1976, unfortunately that was the last time until April 1986. In April 1986 the award went to  Jack Shiffler a marine who served in Vietnam. He became active in the American Legion and the VFW to help other..

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Citizen of the Year 1987 Jerry Lindell

Apr 18, 1987

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment.

In 1987 Jerry Lindell was named Citizen of the Year. Jerry served in the U.S. Army from 1952 - 1955..

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67th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1987-1988)

67th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1987-1988)

Jul 16, 1987
Robert Rudnick served as 67th Commander of Naperville Post 43, 1987-1988.
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Vern Blum 1988 Citizen of the Year

Apr 16, 1988

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1988 Vern Blum was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year

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68th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1988-1990)

68th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1988-1990)

Jul 21, 1988
John Prescott served a two-year term as 68th Commander of Post 43, 1988-1990. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on December 31, 1925. His family moved to Downers Grove, Illinois in 1930 and he eventually moved to Naperville, Illinois. John was a WWII veteran, serving from July 17, 1944 to July 10, 1946. He received 17 weeks of Infantry training at Camp Blanding in Florida. Then he was assigned to Company C, 50th Armored Infantry..
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Citizen of the year 1989 - Floyd Thompson

Apr 15, 1989

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1989 Floyd Thompson was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year.

Born March 5, 1922,..

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Citizen of the year 1989 - Floyd Thompson
Post 43 becomes Sponsor for Boy Sout Trooop 106

Post 43 becomes Sponsor for Boy Sout Trooop 106

Oct 1, 1989
Boy Scout Troop 106 Boy Scout Troop 106 was chartered October 1, 1961 and has been sponsored by American Legion Post #43 of Naperville since 1989. Troop 106 has a proud and strong history of nurturing young men in our community to reach their full potential. They maintain an intimate roster in order to afford our Scouts numerous opportunities to learn leadership and involvement in decision making that will serve them well throughout their lives...
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1990

Citizen of the Year 1990 - Jane B. Sindt

Apr 21, 1990

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1990 Jane B. Sindt was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the..

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69th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1990-1992)

69th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1990-1992)

Jul 19, 1990
Past Commander Robert J. Lammie was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on May 8, 1945, (V.E. Day)! He began his military career as an Air Force ROTC cadet at Penn State. He served 6 years in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era in the chemical corps. Upon leaving the service he worked at Ampacet Corporation for 41 years retiring as V.P. of Sales April 30, 2014. He currently serves in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary...
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Citizen of the Year 1991 Paul Boyle

Apr 20, 1991

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1991 Paul Boyle was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year.


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Citizens of the Year 1992 Peter Heinke and Evelyn Schume

Apr 18, 1992

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1992 Peter Heinke and Evelyn Boyle were named American Legion Post #43 Citizens..

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70th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1992-1993)

Jul 20, 1992
Charles Bueche served as 70th Commander of Post 43, 1992-1993. Chuck was a founding father of the Naperville Jaycees dedicated to helping those in the community. Volunteering is the rent you pay for the space you occupy on earth," was a line Chuck - a man who was known for his inspirational quotes - often used. The words weren't just lip service to Bueche, who moved to Naperville while attending North Central College and never..
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70th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1992-1993)

Citizen of the Year 1993 Danny Simmons

Apr 17, 1993

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1993 Danny Simmons was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year.


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71st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1993-1995)

Jul 15, 1993
Chester J. "Chet" Rybicki was born March 25, 1916 in Chicago, Illinois. He considered his favorite pastime to be "meeting new people, communicating and exchanging ideas." He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps on March 26, 1942 and served during World War II until he was discharged in 1945, just before Thanksgiving. Shortly after the war, Chet entered the job market and began his marketing career in Chicago in 1947. Chet and his wife..
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71st Commander Naperville Post 43 (1993-1995)

Citizen of the Year 1994 Frank Listak

Apr 16, 1994

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1994 Frank Listak was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year.


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Citizen Of the Year 1995 Bill Aba

Apr 15, 1995

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1995 Bill Aba was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year.


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72nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1995-1996)

72nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1995-1996)

Jul 20, 1995
Clinton B Henderson was born on a farm in Davis County, Iowa on May 4, 1925. He enlisted in the U. S. Marine Corps in January 1943. Five months later he was assigned to the 1st Marine Division in the Pacific Theater and participated in the New Guinea, New Britain, Okinawa, and China campaigns. After his discharge in 1946, Clint used the GI Bill to earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He worked as a..
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Citizen of the Year 1996 Terry Jelinek

Apr 20, 1996

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1996 Terry Jelinek was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year.

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73rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1996-1998)

73rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (1996-1998)

Jul 18, 1996
Terrence "Terry" Jelinek served in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam. 1996 to 1998 Terry served a 2 term as 73rd Commander of Post 43. He previously served as the 56th Commander 1975-1976, 64th Commander in 1983-1984, and would again serve Post 43 as the 80th Commander in 2012-2013.
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Citizen of the Year 1997 "Bud" Becker

Apr 19, 1997

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1997 “Bud” Becker was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year.


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Citizens of the Year 1998 Ron and Florence Westholm

Apr 18, 1998

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1998 Ron and Florence Westholm were named American Legion Post #43 Citizens of..

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74th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1998-1999)

Jul 16, 1998
Gerald Lindell served as the 74th Commander of Post 43 in 1998-1999. He was born November 18, 1933, in Woodstock. He served in the United States Army in Korea 19520 -1955. Jerry was particularly proud of his Combat Infantryman's Badge. Following military service, he married his childhood sweetheart, Donna. He completed his education and the settle in Naperville. Jerry began his teaching career in 1959 at Washington and Lincoln Junior High Schools, both in Naperville..
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74th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1998-1999)

Citizens of the Year 1999 Chuck and Audrey Bueche

Apr 17, 1999

 

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 1999 Chuck and AudreyBueche  were named American Legion Post #43 Citizens..

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75th Commander Naperville Post 43 (1999-2003)

Jul 15, 1999
Wayne Louis Fischer was born September 29th, 1948 in Estherville, Iowa. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 5 1/2 years during the Vietnam War as a Helicopter and Fixed Wing (Jet) Pilot. The experience supporting our Marines and friendlies “was a tremendous experience and taught me how right it was for me to be of service to others”. Wayne has carried on that service aspect in the American Legion, in the community and..
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75th Commander Naperville Post 43  (1999-2003)

2000

Citizen of the Year 2000 Mary Ellingston

Apr 15, 2000

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 2000 Mary Ellingston was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year.

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Citizen of the Year 2001 Don Hessessy

Apr 21, 2001

Naperville American Legion Post 43 presented their first Citizen of the Year award in 1976. It became an annual award in 1986. The Naperville Community is blessed with many people who serve their fellow citizens. Those selected must be Naperville residents whose service was performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment. In April of 2001 Don Hennessy was named American Legion Post #43 Citizen of the Year.

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76th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2003-2006)

76th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2003-2006)

Jul 17, 2003
Philip L Maughan served as 76th Commander of Post 43 for three consecutive terms, 2003-04, 2004-05, and 2005-06, a period in which the Post’s membership grew each year. Phil was born in Springfield OH on September 16, 1947 and was commissioned a Lieutenant in the U. S. Army in April 1969 immediately after graduating from the University of Dayton. He attended Army training courses at Fort Gordon GA, Fort Sill OK, and Fort Benning GA..
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WWII Veterans Honored for their Service

May 29, 2004
The National WWII Memorial opened on April 29, 2004. It was dedicated by President George W. Bush on May 29. Understanding that many WWII veterans would not be able to travel to our nation’s Capital, Naperville American Legion Post 43 along with Naperville VFW conducted a special ceremony honoring all WWII Veterans in the area. Held at Kennedy Jr. H.S., WWII Veterans and their guests were serve coffee and rolls prior to the program which..
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77th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2006-2008)

77th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2006-2008)

Jul 20, 2006
Bob Bohr served as 77th Commander of Post 43 for 2 consecutive years 2006-2007 and 2007-2008. Bob was born November 21, 1947 in Clintonville, Wisconsin. He served for four years in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam Era (September 1965 and September 1969). He was a Fuel System Mechanic working on B-52 and KC135 Aircrafts. Stateside he was stationed at Wurtsmith, Michigan and Barksdale, Louisiana. He also served in Guam, Okinawa and Taiwan...
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78th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2008-2010)

Jul 17, 2008
James Lawrence (Jim) Godshall was born May 25, 1942 in Chicago, Illinois. He started military training early attending Culver Military Academy from 1956-1960. He attended Valparaiso University 1960-1964; graduating with a BA in Business Administration. He also attended University of Wisconsin during the summers of 1962 and 1963. He served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve for 3 years during the Vietnam War as a Field Medical Administrative Assistant. He served in San..
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78th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2008-2010)
Past Commanders Honored at Dinner

Past Commanders Honored at Dinner

Apr 18, 2009
As is our custom the last Dinner/Social before summer honors our Past Commanders. Each name is announced as their picture is displayed and a bell is rung for those you now serve in Post Everlasting. As for those still walking this earth some have moved to other locals while others health precludes their attendance. We honor all for what our Post is today is due to those who served before. The attached picture are those..
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Veterans' Day Celebrated with Healing Field of Honor

Nov 11, 2009
In November 2009, Rotary Hill was the site of a breathtaking display in honor of Veterans' Day when Naperville’s Healing Field of Honor became a community focal point. A total of 2,009 American flags stood proudly atop 8-foot tall flag poles in the 3-acre park at Rotary Hill. The flags were purchased by those in the community and beyond who wished to honor someone tagging a flag with a loved one’s name. The Healing Field..
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Veterans' Day Celebrated with Healing Field of Honor

2010

Past Commanders honored at Naperville American Legion Post 43 Dinner/Social April 17 2010

Past Commanders honored at Naperville American Legion Post 43 Dinner/Social April 17 2010

Apr 17, 2010
As is our custom the last Dinner/Social before summer honors our Past Commanders. Each name is announced as their picture is displayed and a bell is rung for those you now serve in Post Everlasting. As for those still walking this earth some have moved to other locals while others health precludes their attendance. We honor all for what our Post is today is due to those who served before. The attached picture are those..
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Citizen of the Year 2010 - Stephanie Penick

Apr 17, 2010

 

In 2010 Stephanie Penick was awarded Post 43’s Citizen-of-the-Year. The annual Citizen-of-the-Year Award recognizes extraordinary service to the Naperville community or to the Nation.

 

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Citizen of the Year 2010 - Stephanie Penick
79th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2010-2012)

79th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2010-2012)

Jul 15, 2010
Priscilla Laubscher served as 79th Commander of Post 43 for 2 consecutive years 2010-2011 and 2011-2012.
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Past Commanders honored at Naperville American Legion Post 43 Dinner

Apr 16, 2011
As is our custom the last Dinner/Social before summer honors our Past Commanders. Each name is announced as their picture is displayed and a bell is rung for those you now serve in Post Everlasting. As for those still walking this earth some have moved to other locals while others health precludes their attendance. We honor all for what our Post is today is due to those who served before. The attached picture are those..
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Past Commanders honored at Naperville American Legion Post 43 Dinner
2011 Citizens of the Year - Rodney and Barbara Randall

2011 Citizens of the Year - Rodney and Barbara Randall

Apr 16, 2011

American Legion Post No. 43 has selected Rodney and Barbara Randall of Naperville to jointly receive its annual Citizen-of-the-Year Award.

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2012 Citizen of the Year - Pamela Davis

Apr 13, 2012

Post 43 named

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2012 Citizen of the Year - Pamela Davis
Past Commanders honored at Naperville American Legion Post 43 Dinner

Past Commanders honored at Naperville American Legion Post 43 Dinner

Apr 21, 2012
As is our custom the last Dinner/Social before summer honors our Past Commanders. Each name is announced as their picture is displayed and a bell is rung for those you now serve in Post Everlasting. As for those still walking this earth some have moved to other locals while others health precludes their attendance. We honor all for what our Post is today is due to those who served before. The attached picture are those..
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80th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2012-2013).

Jul 19, 2012
Terrence "Terry" Jelinek served Post 43 as the 80th Commander 2012-2013. He previously served as the 56th Commander 1975-1976, 64th Commander in 1983-1984,and a 2 year term as 73rd Commander in 1996-1998.
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80th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2012-2013).
Veterans' Day Celebrations - 2012

Veterans' Day Celebrations - 2012

Nov 11, 2012
American Legion Post 43 was one of the Sponsors for the City of Naperville’s 2nd Healing Field of Honor. The number of flags on Rotary Hill, 2012, represented the year. Naperville Healing Field of Honor returned to downtown Naperville November 8th through the 13th, 2012. American flags once again were proudly displayed on Rotary Hill as we united as a community to remember and honor the men and women of the U.S. Military. The proceeds..
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2013 Citizen of the Year - Jenny Dawley

Apr 20, 2013

In April, Naperville American Legion Post 43 selected  Jenny Dawley as its 2013 Citizen of the Year. Jenny, Naperville Township’s Director of Senior Services, was selected from among dozens of nominees.

The selection committee received multiple letters about Dawley, describing her tireless efforts helping seniors and veterans and responding to any situation she becomes aware of where her nursing skills or human compassion are needed.

In one notable example, while attending an AARP class..

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2013 Citizen of the Year - Jenny Dawley
81st Commander Naperville Post 43 (2013-2014)

81st Commander Naperville Post 43 (2013-2014)

Jul 18, 2013
Glenn T. Granat was born in Evergreen Park, Illinois November 10, 1956. He served in the U.S. Army for 3 years followed by 3 years in the U.S. Army Reserves during the Vietnam War Era. His Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) code was 11B1P, Airborne Infantry/Paratrooper. Glenn attended training schools at Ft. Polk, Louisiana; Ft. Benning, Georgia; Ft. Sherman, Alaska; Ft. Wainwright, Alaska; Ft. Bragg, North Carolina and Ft. Irwin, California. He completed 31 Military parachute..
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2014 Citizens of the Year - Richard Montalbano, jr, Bob Bohr and Leonard Novak

Apr 19, 2014

Annually since 1986, Naperville American Legion Post 43 has presented a Citizen of the Year Award for extraordinary service to the Naperville area community. This year it has expanded the program to recognize winners in three categories: Service to Community, Service to Youth and Service to Veterans.

 The winners are:

Richard Montalbano Jr. for Service to the Community. Rick has been impacting the lives of those with disabilities since the age of nine. He..

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2014 Citizens of the Year - Richard Montalbano, jr, Bob Bohr and Leonard Novak
2014 Past Commander's Dinner

2014 Past Commander's Dinner

Apr 19, 2014
As is our custom the last Dinner/Social before summer honors our Past Commanders. Each name is announced as their picture is displayed and a bell is rung for those you now serve in Post Everlasting. As for those still walking this earth some have moved to other locals while others health precludes their attendance. We honor all for what our Post is today is due to those who served before. The attached picture are those..
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82nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (2014-2015)

Jul 12, 2014
Lee Lindberg began his term as the 82nd Commander of Post 43 2014-2015.
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82nd Commander Naperville Post 43 (2014-2015)
Citizens of the Year2015 - Tracey Cowart, Wayne Fischer and Steve Mazzarella

Citizens of the Year2015 - Tracey Cowart, Wayne Fischer and Steve Mazzarella

Apr 18, 2015

The 2015 Citizens of the Year are:

 

Tracey Cowart for Service to the Community: The breadth of services performed by Tracey is amazing. Her nominator suggested she probably qualifies in all three categories. Tracey works a multitude of programs for the Naperville Chamber of Commerce, American Cancer Society, Grace Pointe Church, and St. Baldrick’s Indie Bound event. She organizes and executes monthly collections for various causes including Operation Support Our Troops, Loaves and Fishes Pantry, DuPage..

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2015 Annual Past Commanders' Dinner/Social

Apr 18, 2015
As is our custom the last Dinner/Social before summer honors our Past Commanders. Each name is announced as their picture is displayed and a bell is rung for those you now serve in Post Everlasting. As for those still walking this earth some have moved to other locals while others health precludes their attendance. We honor all for what our Post is today is due to those who served before. The attached picture are those..
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2015 Annual Past Commanders' Dinner/Social
83rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (2015-2016)

83rd Commander Naperville Post 43 (2015-2016)

Jul 11, 2015
Thomas Evan Evans was born in Chicago, Illinois December 13, 1944. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1966 and served for 2 years during the Vietnam War Era. After Basic at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri he was assigned to Headquarters, Continental Army Command at Fort Monroe, Virginia. Increasing in rank to Specialist 5th Class, Tom’s position was Senior Clerk tasked with reviewing Army unit’s strengths for deployment. He received orders for Vietnam, but these..
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Veterans' Day - Week Long Celebration

Nov 11, 2015
For the third time Naperville Healing Field of Honor paid tribute to those who have served or were currently serving in the U.S. Military. But in 2015, in conjunction with the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration Program, Post 43 assisted in a special tribute to Vietnam Era Veterans. The week-long Healing Field of Honor that included 2015 Flags, mostly dedicated to a loved one; our own 60% replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall;..
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Veterans' Day - Week Long Celebration
2016 Annual Past Commanders Dinner/Social

2016 Annual Past Commanders Dinner/Social

Apr 16, 2016
As is our custom, the last Dinner/Social before summer honors our Past Commanders. Each name is announced as their picture is displayed and a bell is rung for those you now serve in Post Everlasting. As for those still walking this earth some have moved to other locals while others' health precludes their attendance. We honor all, for what our Post is today is due to those who served before. The attached picture are those..
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2016 Citizens of the Year

Apr 16, 2016
American Legion Post 43 recognized a Citizen of the Year in three categories: Service to the Community, Service to Veterans and Service to Youth at the final Dinner/Social of the year on April 16th. Citizen of the year to Community was awarded to Lee Lindberg. Lindberg’s nominators describe him as the consummate example of Good Citizenship by virtue of his positive example, willingness to help others and efforts to give back to the community. During..
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2016 Citizens of the Year
84th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2016-2017)

84th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2016-2017)

Jul 16, 2016

Lee Lindberg began his term as the 84th Commander of Post 43 2016-2017. He previously served as the 82nd Commander of Post 43 in 2014-2015.


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85th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2017 - 2018)

Jul 15, 2017
Douglas R. Deetjen served as 85th Commander of Post 43 for from 2017 -2018. Doug was born August 4, 1946 in Oak Park, Illinois. He served in the United States Navy for 4 years active and 2 additional years in the Reserve Component during the Vietnam Era. He was Boiler Tender 3rd class. When he returned to civilian life, he was a Stationary Engineer in Local 399 and Operating Engineer in Local 150. Following this..
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85th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2017 - 2018)
86th Commander Naperville Post 43  (2018 - 2019)

86th Commander Naperville Post 43 (2018 - 2019)

Jul 14, 2018

Donald G. Chasteen served as 86th Commander of Post 43 for from 2018 -2019.

Don was born July 25, 1947 in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era as a Medic, He served for 7 years attaining the rank of SSgt.

Following his military service, he worked as a Machinist/Machine Repairman for 47 years at Navistar, Inc (originally International Harvester). Before moving to the Chicago area, He lived in a..

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