Historic Hollywood Post recognizes Lawson for a lifetime of military service, resilience, artistic achievement and commitment to the veteran community during its annual Commander’s Ball
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — October 3, 2026 — American Legion Hollywood Post 43 honored acclaimed actor, director, educator and U.S. Army Vietnam veteran Richard Lawson with its prestigious Honorary Colonel Award during the Post’s 2026 Commander’s Ball in Hollywood last week.
Lawson’s recognition continues a Hollywood tradition stretching back more than nine decades. Post 43 began commissioning Honorary Colonels in the 1930s, and the distinction evolved into a way for the historic “Post to the Stars” to recognize members of the entertainment community who demonstrate exceptional support for America’s servicemembers and veterans. More than 200 entertainers have been inducted into the tradition, including Hollywood icons such as Shirley Temple, Rita Hayworth, Ginger Rogers, Lana Turner and Marilyn Monroe.
For Lawson, the connection to America’s military community is personal.
Before building a celebrated career across film, television and theater, Lawson served in the United States Army, including a tour in Vietnam. His decades-long career would later span acting, directing, producing, education and mentorship.
His life also carries an extraordinary story of survival.
On March 22, 1992, Lawson was aboard USAir Flight 405 when the aircraft crashed during takeoff from New York’s LaGuardia Airport. Lawson survived the deadly accident, an experience he has described as profoundly changing his understanding of life and the importance of living with purpose.
That combination of military service, perseverance, artistic achievement and a life devoted to empowering others embodies the spirit behind Post 43’s Honorary Colonel tradition.
“Richard Lawson represents the bridge between two communities that have always been at the heart of Hollywood Post 43 — veterans and storytellers,” said Commander Mahogany Zachary. “He served his country, built an extraordinary career in entertainment and has continued using his experience to educate and empower others. It is an honor to recognize him as part of a tradition that has connected Hollywood and America’s veterans for generations.”
The presentation also comes during a historic chapter for Hollywood Post 43 under the leadership of Commander Mahogany Zachary, the first Black female Commander in the Post’s history.
Zachary leads an administration focused on strengthening veteran engagement, expanding community partnerships, preserving the Post’s legacy and positioning the organization for its next generation of veterans.
Serving alongside Commander Zachary are 1st Vice Commander Jeanette Estrem, 2nd Vice Commander Nick Papadakis, Junior Past Commander Monica Nichelson and Adjutant Charlie T. Savage.
The Post’s Executive Committee includes Karen Kraft, Tim Shaner, Dennis Kee, Jeff Daly, Doug Derrick and Bob Gehan.
Together, Commander Zachary and her leadership team represent a new chapter for one of The American Legion’s most recognizable posts — honoring its historic relationship with Hollywood while keeping veterans, service and community at the center of its mission.
Hollywood Post 43 has maintained a unique connection to the entertainment industry for generations. Its Honorary Colonel tradition began when Hollywood personalities were commissioned during ceremonies connecting the motion picture industry with veterans and members of The American Legion. Over time, the honor evolved from recognizing emerging Hollywood talent into recognizing individuals whose lives and careers demonstrate meaningful support for servicemembers and the veteran community.
Lawson now joins that historic legacy not simply as an accomplished Hollywood figure, but as a veteran himself.
The 2026 Commander’s Ball will take place Saturday, October 3, at American Legion Hollywood Post 43, located at 2035 N. Highland Avenue in Hollywood.
ABOUT RICHARD LAWSON
Richard Lawson is an acclaimed actor, director, producer, educator and U.S. Army veteran whose career has spanned more than five decades across film, television and theater. Following his military service, including a tour in Vietnam, Lawson established an extensive entertainment career and later founded Richard Lawson Studios, where his work has focused on acting, education, mentorship and personal empowerment.
ABOUT AMERICAN LEGION HOLLYWOOD POST 43
Founded in 1919, American Legion Hollywood Post 43 has long stood at the intersection of military service and the entertainment industry. Known as the “Post to the Stars,” the Post has counted generations of veterans working throughout film, television and entertainment among its membership while providing programs, community, advocacy and opportunities for veterans.
Its historic Honorary Colonel tradition recognizes members of the entertainment community whose service, accomplishments and support for America’s military and veteran communities embody the values of Hollywood Post 43.
MEDIA CONTACT
Charlie T. Savage
Adjutant, American Legion Hollywood Post 43
2035 N. Highland Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90068
Author: caLegion Contributor
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