National Constitutional Officers

In addition to the national commander and vice commanders, six national constitutional officers are appointed annually by vote of the National Executive Committee. They are the adjutant, treasurer, judge advocate, historian, chaplain and sergeant-at-arms. Officers elected by the national convention take office upon adjournment and serve until the end of the next convention.

Responsibilities of national officers:

Daniel S. Wheeler, National Adjutant
Administrative head of the organization, the adjutant oversees National Headquarters and all other national offices. He is charged in the Legion bylaws with administering the policies and mandates of the national convention and the National Executive Committee.

George A. Buskirk, National Treasurer
The treasurer is custodian of the Legion’s funding. Duties include signing checks, making financial reports and performing other duties appropriate to the office.

Philip B. Onderdonk, National Judge Advocate
The judge advocate advises national officers and the National Executive Committee on legal matters, including the interpretation of the national constitution and bylaws.

James T. Higuera, National Historian
The historian is responsible for Legion history and helps department and post historians coordinate, unify and promote their work. The national historian is assisted by the organization’s librarian and archivist.

John L. Beaver, National Chaplain
The chaplain performs spiritual nonsectarian services as may be necessary, adhering to ceremonial rituals as approved by The American Legion. The chaplain oversees memorial services at each national convention, opens and closes national meetings with appropriate prayers, and frequently gives guidance and leadership to the religious emphasis program of the Americanism Commission.

Paul Martel, National Sergeant-at-Arms
The sergeant-at-arms preserves order at national meetings and performs such other duties as may be assigned by the National Executive Committee or national officers.