South Carolina’s Past Dept. State Cmdr and now the Alternate NEC Robert “Bob” Scherer was presented “The Order of The Palmetto” by Senator Lewis Vaughn on behalf of Governor Henry McMaster. The Order of The Palmetto is the state’s highest civilian honor awarded to citizens of SC for extraordinary lifetime achievement and for national or statewide service.
On August 15, 2019 at St. John's Lutheran Church, Dist. 5 Cmdr Carroll Kelly opened the ceremony for the presenting of this prestigious award. Those in attendance were dignitaries from the Department of SC, Veteran Service Officers, the Spartanburg County Rifle Drill Team, dignitaries from private and other government agencies, family and friends.
Robert “Bob” Scherer as state commander helped increase membership for the first time since 2008 and brought national attention to SC, continues to help open communications between the legionnaires and the Dept. of SC, and inspires enthusiasm throughout the state. He also continues to support the four pillars of the American Legion and asks each post to insure they are following the Four Pillars in helping our fellow veterans. Bob continues to travel the state to ensure the legionnaires know “I am here for you”. Bob’s symbol is the lighthouse which represents hope, assistance, and vision in a world of adversity and challenge.
Outside the American Legion Bob is involved in many charitable organizations. Bob volunteers at Gibbs Cancer Center and since 2012 has over 5500 hrs of service along with being on the Spartanburg Regional System Volunteer Executive Board. He also serves as President of the Sunrise Civitan Club, on the Executive Board, and involved in Special Olympics. Bob is on the Board of Directors for the Fisher House Foundation and is responsible for raising funds in the two counties where he resides.
SC Past Dept. President Pat Jarvis stated that “Bob become our State Commander at a time when we most needed a person to reunite us, lead us and remind us why our Organization exists. His ‘can do’ spirit is contagious and his leadership has made everything and everyone he has touched better.
Bob is an Air Force veteran with 24 years of continuous service. He is a PUFL member of Post 45, Inman, and is on the Executive Committee, and chairman of Wreaths Across America. He resides in Spartanburg along with his wife Sherri and attend St. John’s Lutheran Church where he is on the Church Council.
