Department of Wisconsin American Legion Auxiliary Unit 288 member Maggie Geiger and American Legion Post 288 member Bob Shappell (who is a tri-member — Legion, ALA, and Sons), share more than pride in our country 
and a history of dedicated service and leadership to The American Legion Family. 
 
Both have led at their unit/post, county, district, and department levels — and today, they continue that service at the national level — representing their department and unit/post as members of their respective National Executive Committees (NEC). 
 
Members involved at all levels of The American Legion Family help with bringing a cohesive leadership structure to the unit/post to ensure the mission is fulfilled for our veterans, military, and their families. 
 
American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters learned from Geiger and Shappell why joint leadership matters and how others can do the same to bring the most benefit to your Legion Family. 
 
Being from the same post home and serving at a national level is very special to both.
 
“Bob has been a longtime friend and encourager, mentoring me and helping me grow as a leader,” Geiger said. “At first, I didn’t realize how unique [our situation] was until speaking with other NECs. Attending the Washington Conference together and meeting our senators and representatives was wonderful. Hearing Bob present the Legion’s priorities from his perspective gives better insight into the importance of supporting legislative priorities. Being from the same unit has allowed me to encourage and support Bob as he has taken on larger roles within our unit and department.”
 
Shappell agrees that it has been a noteworthy situation and hopes other units/posts will follow suit 
with joint leadership in some capacity. 
 
“I love that we have this unique opportunity to represent our local Legion Family in Cedarburg at the national level,” Shappell said. “It is definitely a very special time for both of us. We both love our community and the members of the Cedarburg Family. I also love that I am an Auxiliary member for six years, making this situation even more unique for my unit.”
 
Does having two national leaders from your unit/post seem to be encouraging others in your post home to work together and strive for leadership positions too? 

Geiger: I believe it has. Members are asking more questions about structure, programs, and leadership. They aren’t intimidated by titles. For the 2026-2027 administrative year, members have stepped up into leadership roles in our Auxiliary. It will be a pleasure to support and encourage these new leaders and watch them grow.
 
Shappell: We have great cooperation at our local Legion Family already, but I have experienced quite a few members — especially new members — ask about the red cap I wear and what it means. That gives me a chance to explain more about our organization and the amazing number of great programs 
we support.
 
What advice would you give other Legion Family members about working together throughout all levels (unit to national)? 

Geiger: If you feel called to try a leadership role, don’t be afraid to step up. Many members are available to help, answer questions, and bounce ideas off. My greatest learning came from members who challenged me, made me research, and reach out. Leadership is not about “I”; it’s about “we.”
 
Shappell: In Wisconsin, we refer to the community post/unit/squadron/Riders as the local Legion Family. In some ways, we are like a family business, and in some communities, we are among the oldest family businesses in town. We love family businesses because they have great products and services, and they are trusted members of the community. Working together, we can create the same reputation for our local Legion Family.