Richert named department's Outstanding Legionnaire among Blue Cappers

Richert named department's Outstanding Legionnaire among Blue Cappers

During the American Legion Department of Louisiana Convention held in Alexandria June 2-5, James W. “Jimmy” Richert Jr. (second from right) from James O. Hall Post 19 in Jennings was presented the M.C. “Mike” Gehr Blue Cap Award as the outstanding Legionnaire in the state of Louisiana among Legion members who have never served in an elective office above post level. Shown presenting the award are, from left to right, Blue Cap Club State President Rodney Holliday, Department Commander Richard Bell, Richert, and 7th District Blue Cap Coordinator Sam Doucet.

Jimmy is a Vietnam-era veteran of the U. S. Army. He has been a member of Post 19 in Jennings for over 47 years, and he is a Paid Up For Life member. He served for two distinguished years as post commander. He is currently Post 19’s Finance Officer, and he oversees the post’s finances. He manages the post’s membership efforts. He coordinates his post’s involvement on Boys State activities. Jimmy has presented American Legion awards at Jennings High School graduations. He is in charge of renting the American Legion Hall to the public. He has helped, on several occasions, to prepare the meal for post meetings.

Jimmy is a longtime member of the Board of Directors of the Jennings American Legion Hospital, Inc. He was chairman of the vitally important Finance Committee, which oversaw the financial business of the hospital. He was a valued participant in the contract negotiations related to the merger with the Ochsner-Lafayette General system.

Jimmy has participated in many other American Legion projects. In addition, he has been involved in the activities of Our Lady Help of Christians Parish in Jennings, and Knights of Columbus Council 2012, also from Jennings. He has also supported many community initiatives in Jennings. He is truly a valued member of the Jennings community, and he has always represented The American Legion in an exemplary manner. The members of Post 19 are proud to have nominated Jimmy for the prestigious Blue Cap Award.