Longtime NECman Jerry Hedrick passes away

Longtime Department of North Carolina National Executive Committeeman Jerry Hedrick passed away unexpectedly Aug. 25 during the 96th Annual National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. Hedrick was president of the North Carolina National Convention Corporation when he passed away.

A 45-year member of Jim Leonard Post 8 in Lexington, N.C., Hedrick had served on the National Executive Committee since 1994 and had served on the National Resolutions Subcommittee since 1997 – the past six as chairman. He also served on multiple other national committees and was Department of North Carolina commander from 1987-1988.

A Vietnam War Army veteran, Hedrick worked for the U.S. Postal Service for more than 30 years before retiring, Hedrick also was instrumental in helping Shelby, N.C., become the permanent home of The American Legion Baseball World Series.

During his remarks to the national convention on Aug. 26, National Commander Dan Dellinger praised Hedrick for being, “a leader in every sense of the term. So much of what you will see and hear at this North Carolina convention is because of Jerry’s hard work. Lexington, N.C., Post 8 has just lost a great Legionnaire. But the heavenly kingdom has gained a prince of man.”

Condolences can be sent to his wife, Marie, at 306 Westdale Ave, Lexington, NC 27295. Check back at www.legion.org next week to read how friends remember Hedrick both as a Legionnaire and a man.