To the Editor:
Local Veteran Michael Wilson, who is State Commander of the American Legion, was honored at the Commanders Testimonial held at The Chandelier in Bayonne on April 25. The American Legion has a membership of more than 45,000 statewide and 1.2 million nationally. Mike, a Vietnam-era Navy veteran, was honored for his year of service by Bayonne Mayor James Davis who presented a proclamation declaring April 25, 2015 as Michael Wilson day for his dedication to those veterans who have sacrificed their lives for our freedoms, those currently serving, and the care of our veterans statewide. Among proclamations from Mayor Davis were resolutions from Hudson County Executive Tom DeGise, a letter from U.S. Senator Cory Booker, and a Proclamation from Governor Chris Christie. Mike has served since last June when he was elected to the high office of State Commander of the American Legion Department of New Jersey and his reign in office will end this June in Wildwood during the American Legion Department of New Jersey convention. At the conclusion of the evening, Mike thanked his team. Included were Vice Commanders Tony Gallopo, Dennis Smith, Lou Coar, Dave Corbin, and Steve Fisher. Also the Dunn & Dunne brothers, Dan and Jack, for always being there throughout the year; we had many laughs. Mike could not forget Roger Gengaro, his Project Chairman. To all the DECs and County Commanders you made me and my staff feel welcome when we visited and want to thank you for your hospitality and generosity. I would like to also thank our PDCs for your leadership and guidance throughout this year. Mike could not forget his American Legion Family Team Wilson at Bayonne Post 19, best friend Tom Buchanan, Debbie and Jim Noble, George Lavelle, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 19 Debbie, Susan, Maureen, Mary, and Janet, and last Squadron 19, Tony for the journal and Jim for making sure everything got where it is supposed to be all year. The Legion family is so important, and when we all work together we can make incredible things happen.
MIKE WILSON