William “Bill” Siler III, Past Department Adjutant (2006-2016)
It is with profound sorrow and heartfelt reverence that we acknowledge the passing of our beloved former Department of California Adjutant, William “Bill” Siler III.
Bill’s life was marked by steadfast service, institutional knowledge, and unwavering commitment to The American Legion. For ten years he faithfully served as Department Adjutant—guiding, organizing, advising, and ensuring that the work of this great organization moved forward with integrity and excellence. Even in retirement, when duty called once more, Bill answered without hesitation. That willingness to return speaks volumes about his heart for service.
He was not simply an officer holding a title. He was a Legionnaire in the truest sense—dedicated to God and Country, devoted to veterans, and committed to strengthening our Posts. As a member and Adjutant of Orange Post 132, and previously as Commander of Santa Ana Post 131, Bill poured himself into leadership at every level. His fingerprints are on the history of this Department.
Those who worked alongside him knew his steady presence. Those who sought his guidance appreciated his wisdom. And those who served under his leadership respected his consistency and commitment.
Scripture reminds us in 2 Timothy 4:7:
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”
Today we can say with confidence that Bill fought the good fight—not only in uniform, but in continued service to his fellow veterans and this organization he loved.
To his family, friends, and Legion family, we extend our deepest sympathy and prayers. May the God of all comfort surround you with peace during this time of loss. May cherished memories sustain you. And may we honor Bill’s legacy not only in words, but in renewed commitment to serve as faithfully as he did.
Fair winds and following seas, Adjutant Siler.
Your watch is complete.
Your legacy endures.
Dr. Kathy Cash
Chaplain, Dept of California
The American Legion
Author: caLegion HQ
Chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919, The American Legion is the nation’s largest veterans service organization and its Department of California is dedicated to serving the approximately 2 million veterans living in communities across the Golden State.
Thank you Comrade Chaplain for these very fine and appropriate comments.
Bill was my mentor & my Post Adjutant while I commanded Post 132. He knew the Legion better than anyone I ever knew & he knew almost everyone in the Legion personally. We have lost another one of our greats who joins Autrey James and Ed Grimsley and many others at Post Everlasting; and today we must mourn yet another great, Jere Romano, gone too too soon. The sadness and grief is almost unbearable.
Rest in peace, brothers. We have the watch.
Can you get me Bill’s address so I can send condolences to his family. He was my State Adjutant when I was Dept Service Officer.
Also I need NEC Jere Romano’s address so I may send him cad of healing
Thanks,
Scott McKee, Past DSo, 5th Area VSO, District 29 Chaplain
I recommend calling Sanger headquarters for both since I do not know their addresses.
After working with Bill for over 10 years in different issues, you will find no greater person.
A true Legionnaire he was. A man with honesty and true integrity. It is so sad to lose someone like this in our department. He had the respect of so many Legionnaires. He will be dearly missed.
Bill Siler. What a Remarkable man & a True Legionnaire as many will share on this platform. I met Bill at my 1st Dept Convention. He made me feel so welcomed; in that we became Convention pals for life 😊. We kept up with each other’s birthday:s for awhile. You will Never be Forgotten, Bill.🙏🌹