Department President | American Legion Auxiliary

American Legion Auxiliary

Department of New York

Karen D. St. Hilaire

Department President 2023-2024

Members of the American Legion Auxiliary Department of New York, Thank You for electing me as your 2023-2024 Department President. I am excited to begin my year of service to the organization, and to make a lifetime of memories.

My theme this year is “Light The Way For Veterans”. I have always admired the variations of Lighthouses throughout our state. Yet each one shines a light of hope. I want each of you to shine your light to guide our veterans and their families to a brighter future. Also remember to light the way for our members as you mentor them to become our future leaders, so they can also assist our veterans.

With help, we have revised all committee reports to include their respective “Impact Reports Forms”. As we have heard in the past, the impact reports contain crucial information that the Department Legion Commander needs to report to congress to pass legislative bills and continue benefits for active military and veterans. It is my hope this change will simplify the reporting process, as we continue our ALA programs.

My project is Hope For The Warriors. Hope For The Warriors was founded in 2006 by military spouses and families, as they witnessed, firsthand, the effects war imparts on service members and their families. Hope For The Warriors has remained grounded in family values as the organization expands both the span of programs offered and the number of wounded, family members and the fallen assisted.

The leadership of the organization remains in the dedicated hands of combat veterans and military family members. Hope For The Warriors believes those touched by military service can succeed at home by restoring their sense of self, family, and hope. They are focused on transition, health and wellness, peer engagement, and connections to the community.

I look forward to traveling with the Legion Commander, Detachment Commander, and travel party as we explore the great state of New York. We are excited to share our programs and inspire family unity . God Bless The American Legion, God Bless our Veterans and God Bless America.

Karen St. Hilaire

Department President 2023-2024

Biography/Introduction

Karen St. Hilaire is a 49 year member of the Mattydale American Legion Auxiliary Unit #1832 in Onondaga County. She is eligible through her father John Allen a WWII Army Veteran. Her late Husband Jerry was also an Army Veteran who served in Viet Nam.

Karen’s leadership skill began as Unit President in 1999 progressing to County in 2008 and District in 2011.

Karen was the 2017 Syracuse Department Convention Chairman. She has also served the Department as Empire Girls State Nurse. She has chaired the Community Service, Americanism, Leadership, Children and Youth, VA&R and Membership Committees.

Karen is active in her community as a retired Firefighter and currently elected Fire Commissioner for Hinsdale Volunteer Fire Department.

Karen is a retired Registered Nurse with a certification from American Association of Critical Care Nurses.

Karen’s proudest accomplishment is that she and her late husband Jerry have two daughters Amy and Kristin, along with six grandchildren.

Please give her a warm welcome.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT KAREN ST. HILAIRE
DEPARTMENT OF NEW YORK PRESIDENT

BIRTHDAY– June 1st
THEME– “Light The Way For Veterans”
FAVORITE COLOR– Blue
EARRINGS– Pierced
HOBBIES– Reading, Golf, and crocheting.
FAVORITE FOODS– Not fussy (but avoid very spicy food)
FAVORITE DESSERT- Brownie, Ice Cream
FAVORITE SNACKS– Salty snacks
FAVORITE DRINK– Coffee- Water
FAVORITE ADULT DRINK– Vodka & Cranberry
FAVORITE FLOWER– None- (I have allergies to strong scented flowers, perfumes & candles)

2023-2024- DEPT PRESIDENT AWARDS- ST.HILAIRE

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