State Son’s of the American Legion of Michigan, Gordon “Zack” Pendell, left, congratulates John Pickard on his election as the Upper Peninsula 5th Zone Commander for the year 2021-2022 year. (Submitted photo)

GLADSTONE — John Pickard, 45-year member and Past Commander of S.A.L. Squadron #71 of the August Mattson American Legion of Gladstone, was elected to be the Upper Peninsula of Michigan Son’s of the American Legion 5th Zone Commander for 2021-2022 Membership year.

Pickard replaces William Bill Germain who has served in that office the past five years.

“I grew up in a Legion family in Gladstone with strong support of veterans,” Pickard said in a news release. “Beginning with my grandfather Cliff Murker who was a charter member and third Commander of the August Mattson Post. He served in France and Belgium in World War I. My father Kenneth Pickard was two time Commander of the post and was Veteran of the China-Burma Theater in World War II. Lastly my brother Mike was a Vietnam Era veteran. It was only natural to become a Son of the American Legion to honor my family and serve and help all veterans in need.”

The New Sons of the American Legion of Michigan elected from Three Rivers Squadron #170 of Three Rivers Michigan Gordon “Zack” Pendell as their new Michigan State Commander. Pendell is a 16-year member of the Hice-Shutes S.A.L. Squadron and very active on the District and Detachment Level.