I Am The American Legion: David Wallace

Even before he retired from the Navy, David Wallace had made up his mind that he’d continue to serve his country and community.

The idea of being involved with a veterans organization like The American Legion appealed to Wallace, who comes from a military family. He credits his father and one of his late uncles as his inspiration for joining.

“My family has been very active with the Legion,” says Wallace, who notes that 13 of the 14 men on his father’s side served in uniform. “My father and uncle belong to different posts, but I have a brother and nephew who are attached to my post. I always wanted to come to the Legion but didn’t know I was eligible until after I retired.”

Per family tradition, Wallace is a dual member of Sons of The American Legion, believing it’s important to share Legion activities with his son, Jeremy, 11, who is sergeant-at-arms for Squadron 162. They also have been active in Scouting, with Wallace a past chairman for the Boy Scouts’ 17th District.

Motivated by his favorite American Legion pillar, Children & Youth, Wallace says he enjoys mentoring young men in his community along with his other leadership roles. “I feel it is my responsibility to get the younger generation involved so they can learn from those who are here, now,” he says. “It makes me feel young again.”

Branch of ServiceNavy (1998-2009)

Military job Career recruiter

RankPetty officer first class

American Legion PostPost 162, Lorton, Va. (2013-present); Post 176, Springfield, Va. (2009-2013)

Years in the Legion7

Legion activities

National American Legion Press Association president (2016-present)
National Veterans Employment & Education Council (2016-present)
Department Veterans Employment & Education chairman (2015-present)
Department regional membership vice chairman (2015-present)
District Boy Scouts chairman (2014-present)
Post 162 commander (2016-present)
Post 162 first vice commander (2015-2016)
Post 162 adjutant (2013-2014)
Post 162 historian (2014-2015)
Post 176 commander (2012-2013)
Post 176 first vice commander (2011-2012)
Post 176 historian (2009-2011)