The Detachment of New Jersey, the state-level organization managing New Jersey’s 10,000 members, recently attended the 54th Sons of The American Legion National Convention in Louisville, Ky. The week truly brought to life the New Jersey slogan “Jersey Pride,” as the detachment walked away with several awards and appointments.
At the convention, Henry Hasselhan III of Atco Squadron 311 was elected and installed as one of five national vice commanders for this year, responsible for the 13 states within the Northeastern region – which also includes the detachments of the District of Columbia and France.
Hasselhan is eligible for membership through his father’s military service in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War. “In my youth, I was always ashamed of how our returning Vietnam troops were treated. I vowed that I would be different, and finally found an organization that supports our troops,” noted Hasselhan, speaking about his responsibility to help veterans and their families. “I hope to live up to the high standard expected of me."
Also, at the final day of the three-day convention, Jeffrey Hicks of Southampton Township Squadron 526 was named the trailing candidate for national commander, for the 2028-2029 leadership year.
“The three generations of Legionnaires who earned my eligibility in the SAL would be immensely proud of the accolade,” noted Hicks on the announcement. “I pledge my full faith and effort to move our SAL program forward in support of our military, veterans and other charitable causes.”
Delegation Chairman Rusty Myers, the sitting detachment commander, noted, “It was a great weekend for New Jersey.”
New Jersey left with quite a few awards, including a second-place “Snapshots of Service” award and a first-place “Videos of Service” award given to Nutley Squadron 70.
Brick Township Squadron 348 received two awards for their Children & Youth programs – one recognizing the greatest contributions nationally, and the other for the greatest efforts regionally. They also received the prestigious Kirby E. Kepler Memorial Award, given for the best Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation reporting nationwide.
Martin Widmer from Pine Hill Squadron 28 was honored with the 2026 National Charles B. Rigsby Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Volunteer of the Year.
