03/24/2026
ALA MEET THE MEMBER & OFFICER SPOTLIGHT: MARIA VERKLER (Sergeant-At-Arms)
Maria is another one of the faces behind this page!
Q:How long have you been a member, and what inspired you to join?
A: Since 1991. My husband is in the Legion and I wanted to support him and other Service Members and Veterans!
Q: What is your favorite thing about ALA?
A: Getting to connect with other local women with the same patriotic values, as we support our Service Members and Veterans!
Q: What is your favorite ALA event or program?
A: My favorite program is preparing and sending the Service boxes to servicemen near the holidays. It originally started as a way to send “goodies from home” to service members serving overseas, but has evolved to include sending to those serving in other states as well.
Q: What do you wish more people knew about ALA?
A: I wish people knew about all the work we do and all of the donations we make to support other/different programs.
Q: What does your office do?
A: Sergeant-At-Arms is in charge of the flags, bell, and gavel for all ALA meetings and accompanying guests during officer installation.
Q: Have you held an ALA office before?
A: I have been Sgt-At-Arms and in 1994-1995 was ALA President. During the same time, my husband Rich was Legion Commander! First time in CP that a husband and wife led simultaneously!
Q: What is your favorite memory of ALA?
A: My favorite memory would be the many times we took the Junior Auxiliary Members to Watseka for the Relay for Life. We stayed over night, raised funds, and participated in the walk. We had a good time coming up with themes, costumes, and enjoying the time spent together for a good cause!
Which ALA member or office would you like to know more about? Tag them in the comments below!