National officer to visit Nevada American Legion post

Lynn Dorrell, State Commander of The American Legion announced today that National Vice Commander John M. Mella will be visiting several communities and Legion posts Jan. 27-30, and plans to be at the Leon Ogier Post No. 2 in Nevada, at 10:30 p.m., Jan. 30.

The purpose of this visit is to meet with civic leaders and leaders from local American Legion Posts to provide a better understanding of military and veteran issues that directly impact them and their communities, and to promote the importance of being a member of the world's largest veteran's organization.

Mella was elected during the closing session of the 92nd National Convention in Milwaukee in September 2010. A U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War era, he retired from the Department of Veteran Affairs after serving 34 years. His distinguished career includes serving as a member of the Dickinson County Executive Board for County Veterans. During his 33 years as a member of the American Legion, he has served on many commissions and committees at the local post, state and national levels.

He has also served on The American Legion's National Foreign Relations Commission.

Several American Legion Posts and communities are being specially honored by their being visited by the National Vice Commander, State Commander and several other state officers. Emphasis is being placed on veteran issues and programs, and membership. Other topical issues will be discussed as they are raised.

During Mella's visit, he will present certificates of appreciation to individuals and post for their membership efforts, and he will collect memberships at each visit.

The Nevada visit, as are the others on the agenda, is open to the public, offering an opportunity to learn more about veteran issues, programs and other areas that may concern them, a press release said.