Mitchell veteran elected state commander of American Legion
Daily RepublicJun 20, 2017
Holmes, 65, was elected Sunday as the state commander of the
The longtime
"One of our missions is to help veterans and veteran rehabilitation," Holmes said. "We really look forward to helping as many veterans as we can locally, statewide and a nationally."
Holmes is a
The
And 25 years later, he's named to one of the top positions within the state
He will also be an advocate for the organization, speaking to the legislature on matters or bills that may affect
Holmes is looking forward to these responsibilities, but also made it a goal to increase the membership of the
"When you're in the military, it's a comradeship and friendship that you have. It continues after you get out ... " Holmes said. "We used to all be in the military, we have all been through certain things and we can relate to each other."
Electing the new state leadership is the last event of the state convention each year in
This year's convention was held Thursday through Sunday, and Flisrand said Holmes has a "pretty full plate" ahead, spending a majority of his time on the road, traveling to state and national events.
But he's not worried, knowing Holmes has been an advocate for the organization and children youth programs -- one of the pillars the state organization supports.
"He's been with the Legion for long time, and he's very dedicated to the organization," Flisrand said. "He speaks very, very well and he's gone through the ranks. He knows how the Legion operates, and he knows what our four pillars are."
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