NPC American Legion Post elects new officers, honors members

NPC American Legion Post 20 elected officers for the coming year at its Aug. 17 meeting and cited members with certificates of appreciation for special efforts on behalf of the Post, which this year was recognized by the Department of the District of Columbia as DC's "Outstanding Post."

William "Will" Watson was recognized for his contributions, including helping arrange for the purchase by Post members of military service flags for use by the club during events involving the military. Watson, an Air Force veteran who purchased the Air Force flag and arranged for the donation of a Merchant Marine flag, stepped down as Post vice commander to transfer to a post closer to his home in Berryville, Va.

"I'll always be a supporter of Post 20 and attend meetings when I can," Watson said.

Others cited for supporting Post programs, such as Boys State and an oratorical scholarship program, are Alfredo Diaz, Michael MacMurray, James Noone, John and Michael Hurley, Anthony Gallo and Myron Belkind.

Elected as Post officers were Ken Dalecki, commander; Alfredo Diaz, first vice commander; Thomas Young, second vice commander; Michael MacMurray, adjutant; Myron Belkind, finance officer; Michael Hurley, chaplain; Jonah Gitlitz, secretary; Anthony Gallo, judge advocate; Jim Noone, sergeant-at-arms, and John Cosgrove and John Hurley, historians.