Legion’s national leader plans to visit Belfast post

BELFAST — Robert S. Turner, national commander of the American Legion, will visit Frank D. Heslitine Post 43 on Saturday, Feb. 16. The Belfast visit will cap a weekend of activities during Turner’s swing through Maine. A social hour will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a banquet at 7 p.m. and dance at 9 p.m.

Turner was elected national commander of the American Legion during the closing session of the 72nd National Convention of the organization in Indianapolis, Ind., Aug. 30, 1990.

Turner, a counselor for the Georgia Department of Veterans Service’s Claims Division, is the third Vietnam-era veteran to serve as the American Legion’s national commander.

After serving two years in the Army, 1966-68, Turner returned with his family to their home in Senoia, Ga. In the fall of 1968, he joined Freeman Sasser Memorial American Legion Post 174.

His leadership positions in the American Legion include service as commander of Post 174, commander of Post 15 (three terms), district commander, department junior and senior vice commander, department commander and national vice commander.

He also was the chairman of the National Bicentennial Committee for U.S. Constitution, 1986-88; served as chairman, National Americanism Commission, 1985-88; served 20 years on the staff of the Department of Georgia’s Boys State, the last six as the director; staff member of Boys Nation, 1981-84; and various other Legion and civic positions.

Turner was elected Mayor of Senoia, Ga., in 1970, a position he held until relocating to Griffin, Ga., in 1972. He and his family reside in Decatur, Ga.

He has received numerous awards including the “Mr. Legionnaire” award, American Legion Post 15, Griffin, Ga.; and “Vietnam Veteran Outstanding Service to Community” recognition from President Jimmy Carter, 1979.