Becoming a Post Commander in the American Legion Lacey Township Memorial Post # 517!

Mon, Jul 6, 2026, at 12:00 PM

15 E Lacey Rd, Lacey Township, NJ, 08731

American Legion Lacey Township Memorial Post 517, 15 East Lacey Road, Lacy Township, Forked River, NJ 08731

Story By Heide Dziardziel

Bill Schmidt

Was born in 1952 to become the Commander of the American Legion Lacey Township Memorial Post # 517.

Although the process took a little time, it prepared him for the job.

As a Navy seamen recruit from 1971 to 1975 serving for 4 years, his duties were a Bosun’s Mate included handling 5’38 gun mount - (shooting the guns) and helmsman - (steering the Ship Destroyer DD 697 USS Charles S. Sperry) while in the Military during the Vietnam conflict.

            On discharge, he was a Chemical Operator dealing with caustic chemicals, boiler operator with food additives for several years.

            As a spiritual man, he was at Church was asked by a member of his Church Brother Kerry Sr. who is a member of Post 517 to attend a memorial service for Roy Johnson who had past way, he was the Commander of the American Legion Post 517.  At this May 4, 2026 monthly meeting, he volunteered for the Commander's position due to the Ocean County Commander Hector Quinones requested for someone in the group step up & become the Post Commander.

            At first, Bill reluctantly agreed to become Post Commander; however, when he learned that the Post Charter would be taken away because the Post had no Commander, he knew that he must step up to save it for the veterans. Who needed this post in Lacey Township to remain open for the benefit of the Veteran’s in Forked River.

            Thanks to Bill Schmidt, the Post will stay open for past & new Member’s as well. So come & attend his first New Commander’s meeting on July 6, 2026, at the American Legion Post 517, in Lacy Township, Forked River, NJ. 08731. Cell Phone # 732-575-6904 & email Address BillSchmidt1000@aol.com  If you wish to Join 517 the Post address is: 15 East Lacey Road, Forked River, NJ, 08731. Meetings to be held on the first Monday of each Month at 12: noon.