I Am The American Legion- William Haase

“The American Legion is made up of a very unique group of people – that’s your veterans. When you commit yourself to serve, you are giving up part of your life; you’re putting your country and your beliefs ahead of your personal being. That carries over to our veterans organizations. Our organization (is one of those) that once you walk into that club, it doesn’t make any difference if you’re the president of some organization, a CEO or someone who pushes the broom around. It doesn’t make any difference – you are all veterans.”

Branch of Service: U.S. Marine Corps

Years: 1963-1966

MOS: Communications

Rank at discharge: Sergeant

Decorations
- Presidential Unit Citation
- Navy Unit Commendation
- Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars
- Vietnam Cross of Gallantry Unit Citation with palm
- Vietnam Civil Actions Unit Citation with palm
- Vietnam Campaign Medal

American Legion Post: Post 579, Cooperstown, N.Y.

Number of Years in the Legion: 15

Veterans Activities:
- President of Cooperstown Veterans Club
- American Legion Baseball World Series national staff, 2003-present