“Mentoring Leaders, Building Legacies”

About the Candidate:

Jr Duarte is a 17-year American Legion member and a proud Paid Up for Life (PUFL) Legionnaire. He proudly serves with Post 10, District 18, Area 6, which he helped establish in South El Monte. A veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard (1990–1996), Jr served as a Cobra Armament Crew Chief, where he learned the value of precision, teamwork, and leadership under pressure.

Purpose:

Jr is running for Department Commander to ensure the California American Legion continues to grow stronger for generations to come. Guided by his motto, “Mentoring Leaders, Building Legacies,” his mission is to invest in new leaders, strengthen Posts, honor the proud traditions of the Legion, and expand programs that directly impact veterans and their communities.

Legion Accomplishments:

• Helped start Post 10 in South El Monte, building a hub for veterans and their families.
• Founded the District 18 Blood Drive Program, which has helped over 6,000 people in need.
• Ran the chairs at the Post level, serving in every major role including Commander.
  • Served as District Chaplain, Executive Board Member, Second Vice, First Vice, and Commander.
• At the Department level: 6th Area Vice Commander, Department Sergeant-at-Arms (2 years), and Department Membership Director (2 years).
• Strong supporter of youth programs, veteran outreach, and mentorship pipelines.
• Proud member of ANAVICUS.

Your vote in June of 2026 at the Department Convention for Jr Duarte, Nick Rosa, Jeff Jewell and for Neil La Sala would be immeasurably appreciated!

Want to download a copy of Jr’s bio? Click below.

For additional candidate information, visit Officer Candidates.