Candidate for Sergeant-at-Arms (2026-2027): Neil La Sala

“Diversity is the cornerstone of our Legion’s strength”

About the Candidate:

Now in his 14th year as a Legion PUFL member, Neil is a 31-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps and retired from the reserve component in July of 2020. He served two combat tours in Iraq (2003 and 2005) and has been classified as 100% disabled by the Veterans Administration. He retired from the Los Angeles Unified School District after 39-years of service at two urban high schools. His positions included that of classroom teacher, dean, coach and athletic director. As a Legion leader in District 18, he has a solid reputation for chairing well-run meetings that emphasize each of the Legion’s Four Pillars as a paramount concern.

At the Post level, Neil has served as Chaplain, Finance Officer, Adjutant (2025 District 18 Adjutant of the Year) and Commander. For District 18, his roles included, Chaplain, 2nd Vice Commander, 1st Vice Commander and two terms as Commander. Currently, he is the Commander of the American Legion Los Angeles County Council for Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation. At the Department level, he has served on the Executive Committee and as a member of the Personnel Committee.

Born in Pasadena, California, Neil is a proud alumnus of the California American Legion Boys State program held at California State University, Sacramento in June of 1979. He and his wife Carol (Unit 280 Auxiliary) live in Pasadena with their Basset Hound Maximillian and Beagle Apple.

Purpose:

As the Department of California Sergeant-at-Arms, Neil will leverage his experience to keep members focused on the topic at hand, as he works diligently with the Department Commander, Area Vice Commanders, Adjutant and all Department Officers to ensure ritual compliance, productive meetings and to facilitate worthwhile site visits for the benefit of every Blue Cap Legionnaire.

Education:

• California State University Los Angeles, BA, Physical Education, 1984 (Dean’s List)
• California State University Los Angeles, MA, Health Science, 1993
• Concordia University Irvine, MA, Education Administration, 2008
• United States Marine Corps Command and Staff College, 2013 (Distinguished Graduate)

Legion Accomplishments:

• Led and oversaw Post 280 in revitalization and filing of six years of past due 990s for the purpose of regaining 501(c)19 status (2020-2024)
• Led and oversaw distribution of supplies and money donated by Posts and Auxiliary units from Northern California, Arizona and New Hampshire consisting of 25 boxes of supplies and a box truck load of clothing. All distribution helped the 2025 Eaton Fire victims
• Facilitated the distribution of $1500 to each of the following to help with the aftermath of the Eaton Fire, John Muir High School, Mater Delarosa Catholic Retreat and the Altadena Musicians Fund. Additionally, three Legion Family members affected by the fire were each given $200
• Led and oversaw District 18 camaraderie building events, Christmas morning backpack distribution to West Los Angeles homeless veterans and the $10,000 fundraising campaign for the District’s support of the Legion’s Four Pillars (2023-2025)
• Led and oversaw District 18 membership goal increase from 28th in Department (2024) to 5th in Department (2025)

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 Neil’s bio? Click below.

For additional candidate information, visit Officer Candidates.