Virgil Persing of Columbia Heights and member of Falldin Post 555 was elected Department Commander of the American Legion on July 15, 1995, at the 77th Annual Minnesota State Convention, held in Duluth, Minnesota.
Virgil is eligible for membership in the American Legion through his service with the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.
A 29-year member of the American Legion, he joined the organization at Minneapolis Falldin Post 555 following his discharge and held several offices there including Commander. He moved to the Minneapolis area in 1966. He served as Post Commander in 1971. He has served the Fifith District in many capacities, including three years as Vice Commander and Membership Director.
On the Department level, he has served as Department Vice Commander 1988 - 1989 and served on the Trophies and Awards Committee, Post Development Committee and was Distinguished Guest Transportation Chairman at the 1994 National Convention.
Vir is a lifetime member of Falldin Post 555 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Virg is also a member of Voiture 45 of the 40/8 and the Amvets.
He and his wife, Mary have five children and seven grandchildren. Children Gregory, Douglas, Daniel and David are members of the S.A.L. Falldin Post 555. Gloria is a member of the Auxiliary, Falldin Unit 555. Mary has been a member of the American Legion Auxiliary for 29 consecutive years.
