Gerard “Jerry” Sherlock was elected commander for the upcoming year of the American Legion Post 323. He is a native of New York and served in the U.S. Navy. He and his wife, Marilyn, have three children, Stephen, Daniel, Melissa and one grandchild, Haleigh. Sherlock said they all are members of the American Legion Family.

The joint installation of officers will be held July 9 at 2 p.m. at the Post Home on Ashlar Ave. in Lehigh Acres. District 13 Commander Steve Slachta and the district staff will perform the installation ceremony along with District 13 Auxiliary staff and District 13 SAL staff.

Commander Sherlock and the Legion Family are planning many activities, he said, for the upcoming Legion year. Events will be posted in newspapers as well as in ads for special events.

Taking office with Commander Sherlock will be:

• Ray Esponda, first vice commander.

• Andy Burkett, second vice commander.

• Jessica Moore, adjutant.

• Bradley Snyder, finance officer.

• Carol Toney, chaplain.

• Bill Allen, historian.

• Ron Rice, judge advocate.

• Elex Simmons, sergeant-at-arms.

• Tim Tambellini, assistant sergeant-at-arms.

• Pete Lane, Larry Lengel and Jim Odell, executive committee. The past commander was Al Schenck

Sherlock and the Executive Board’s mottos this year is “We are Family,” by including Post, Auxiliary, Squadron and Riders in all activities.

Post general membership meetings are held the third Monday of each month unless otherwise noted. All Legion members are invited to attend and get involved in the activities of the Post.

The Legion Family asks all members and guests to come in and visit with them at the Post, which is behind Burger King. All activities are open to the public, but only members and guests may purchase alcohol, Sherlock said.

If you are a veteran and not a member, Sherlock invites you to come in and bring your DD-214 (for eligibility), complete application. Due are $30 annually. For more information, call 239-369-3178.