09/19/2026
The American Legion Department of Illinois 2026-2027 Commander, CELESTE LATHAM
Anchors Hold, Wings Rise, Faith Leads is my motto for this year. It is a phrase that speaks deeply to who I am, where I come from, and how I lead. It reflects strength, movement, and purpose. I will share what it means to me, while knowing each of you may find your own meaning and inspiration in it as well.
To me, Anchors Hold honors my grandfather’s service in the Marines during World War II and my father’s service in the Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Bay of Pigs. It represents stability, strength, and staying true to the values, traditions, and mission that have always made The American Legion strong. It reflects discipline, accountability, and the steady support we provide to veterans, families, and communities. In times of uncertainty, we have the opportunity to be a source of reassurance and dependability. That is what anchors do—they hold firm.
Wings Rise honors both my service and my husband’s service in the Air Force. It speaks to growth, leadership, and the future. It reminds me that while we hold fast to tradition, we must also continue to move forward with purpose. We must welcome new members, encourage new leaders, strengthen communication, and ensure our organization remains relevant, vibrant, and effective for the next generation of veterans and their families. Rising does not mean leaving our foundation behind — it means building boldly upon it.
Faith Leads is the heart of this motto. To me, faith means belief not only in a higher power, but also belief in ourselves, in our mission, in one another, and in the importance of service. It means leading with integrity, compassion, and conviction. It means remembering that behind every program, every membership card, every event, and every report is a person who needs to feel seen, valued, and supported.
This motto can stand for many things:
• Anchors Hold when we remain steady in service.
• Wings Rise when we grow membership, build leaders, and reach outward.
• Faith Leads when we care for one another, help one more veteran, and give back with dignity and purpose.
The American Legion Family is incredibly important to me. I firmly believe that when we work together—as The American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary, the Sons of The American Legion, and the Legion Riders—we are stronger, more effective, and better able to fulfill our mission. No one does this work alone, but together, we can make this a meaningful, united, and successful year. I look forward to serving you, serving with you, and standing alongside the entire Legion Family in the year ahead. If we remain anchored in our mission, willing to rise to the needs before us, and guided by faith in service and in one another, I truly believe we can accomplish great things together.
For God and Country,
Celeste
