Janice Somers, Candidate for Department Commander
“Driven by Honor, United by Duty”
Mission Oriented – Results Driven
I joined the American Legion in 2002 and served in leadership roles at the Post, District, Area, and Department levels. As Post 66 Commander, I helped organize a Riders Chapter, Sons Squadron, and secured a grant for major Post improvements. As District Commander, I achieved over 104 percent membership, help build a top-ranked informational website, and fostered friendly competition to keep members engaged.
At the Department level, I have been deeply involved in Ways and Means, by promoting fundraising strategies, and programs that directly benefit veterans. My work with the CA Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Foundation has brought in tens of thousands of dollars for veteran services and equipment to improve the work of our Veteran Service Officers.
As Department Vice Commander representing Area 6, I focused on communication, education, and best practices, resulting in high compliance and membership success across nearly every Post in the Area. I believe training, teamwork, communication, and transparency are the keys to success.
I am running for Department Commander for 2026-2027 because I have the experience, the passion, and the proven record to lead our Department forward. Together, we can strengthen our programs, grow our membership, continue the strategic plan, and ensure that every California Veteran receives the respect, resources, and support they deserve.
Leadership:
- Post 66 Commander 2012-2013
- District 16 Commander 2015-2016 and 2018-2019
- Department Vice Commander Representing Area 6 2024-2025
- Ways and Means Commission 2016 – Present
- Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Foundation 2017 – Present
Education:
- American Legion College Graduate 2018
- Basic Training 2018 and 2024
- Be the One Training 2024
- Southern Ohio University Graduate Associate Degree 1979
- US Navy Dental Technician School 1969
Background:
- US Navy Vietnam Era Veteran: 1968-1971 as a Dental Technician
- Married to her partner Greg for over 51 years
- They have three sons, three daughter in laws, and seven grandchildren
- Since July 2001: American Legion member of San Luis Obispo Post 66
American Legion Positions Today:
- Appointed to National Media & Communications Commission
- Department Ways & Means Commission Chair
- Department Finance Committee Representing Area 6
- District 16 Judge Advocate
- Twenty and Four Womens Legionnaire Honor Society Director
- Past Commanders Club Outpost 16 President
Several Visions, Missions, and Goals for the Coming Year:
- Work with our Vice Commanders, District 1st Vice Commanders, and the Department Membership Team to create a plan to gain and retain membership.
- Promote a better image of the American Legion throughout the state.
- Serve as an active liaison between the entire Legion Family, focusing on unity and as a team.
- The Vice Commanders will be tasked to work with their Area District Commanders on a regular basis and report back.
- Put more emphasis on the importance of communication and transparency of the Department’s business to the Department Executive Committee.
Want to download a copy of Janice’s brochure? Click below.
For additional candidate information, visit Officer Candidates.
Author: caLegion Contributor
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