District commanders earn trip to Phoenix

The American Legion's Race to the Top competition recognizes district commanders in five membership categories who attain at least 100 percent of the district's assigned membership goal by March 31. For the 2020-2021 membership year, five district commanders from three departments earned first place in their respective category.

First place winners in each category receive a trip to the 2021 American Legion national convention in Phoenix along with a guest. Second place winners will receive a $500 check and third place winners will receive a $375 check. 

Race to the Top winners are:
Category I (districts of 15-1,499 members)

1st place: James M. Defrehn of South Carolina

2nd place: James J. Dewyze of Utah

3rd place: David G. Jelin of Utah

Category II (districts of 1,500-2,999 members)

1st place: James R. Gibson of South Carolina

2nd place: Eugene S. Ironshell Jr. of South Dakota

3rd place: No submission

Category III (districts of 3,000-4,999 members)

1st place: Johnny D. Castro of Florida

2nd place: No submission

3rd place: No submission

Category IV (districts of 5,000-7,499 members)

1st place: Bruce Carl of Florida

2nd place: No submission

3rd place: No submission

Category V (districts of 7,500 or more members)

1st place: Stephen N. Foster of Ohio

2nd place: Dennis L. Mallon of Florida

3rd place: No submission