07/19/2026
Our Unit truly shined at the 2026 Department of Maryland American Legion Auxiliary Convention in Ocean City! 🇺🇸✨
We are incredibly proud of all that our members accomplished this year and honored to have our hard work recognized at the state level.
A special congratulations goes to our very own Erica Southern, who served as the Department President's Personal Page. Erica represented our Unit with professionalism, dedication, and a willingness to help wherever she was needed. She made us all proud!
🏆 Our award-winning year included:
🥇 1st Place – Unit History
Congratulations to Patsy Anderson, who earned her second consecutive First Place award for our Unit History. What an outstanding accomplishment!
⭐ Goal Plus Membership Award
Thanks to the dedication of Gerri Hoy, who kept membership applications current and welcomed new members promptly, we achieved Goal Plus for our tremendous membership growth. This success also belongs to every member who shared the story of our Auxiliary and invited others to become part of our mission.
🥇 1st Place – National Security
Under the leadership of Laura Sherman, our National Security Committee had an exceptional year. Laura organized a successful fall flea market that helped fund numerous care packages sent to deployed service members around the world. Her committee also sponsored a CPR/AED certification course, making it possible for many of our members to become certified.
🥇 1st Place – Home Service
Led by Annmarie Peterson, this committee continues to make a meaningful difference. From hosting Field Service Bingo at FutureCare to providing meals, home care, and cleaning services for homebound veterans. Its members brought comfort, companionship, and compassion to those who needed it most.
🥈 2nd Place – Children & Youth
Under the leadership of Michelle Cavegn, our Children & Youth Committee once again created unforgettable children's events throughout the year. The committee also proudly supported military children by celebrating Purple Up! Day at several local schools, showing appreciation for the sacrifices made by military families.
📚 We were also proud to have several Americanism Essay winners, recognizing the patriotic spirit and talent of students in our community.
One of the most meaningful moments of the convention came as we listened to speeches from both our Department Commander and the Department Sons of The American Legion Commander. Each emphasized that they could not accomplish what they do without the unwavering support of the American Legion Auxiliary. Their heartfelt recognition was a powerful reminder that our service truly matters and that the Auxiliary is an indispensable part of The American Legion Family.
It was a busy and rewarding year filled with service, dedication, and teamwork. While we were honored to receive these awards, the greatest reward is knowing we made a positive impact on our veterans, military families, children, and community.
Of course, convention wasn't all business! We also enjoyed spending time with our own members and reconnecting with friends from Auxiliary Units across Maryland.
Congratulations and thank you to every member of our Unit. These accomplishments belong to all of you. Together, we continue to make a difference—one act of service at a time.
