The American Legion Auxiliary

The American Legion Auxiliary is a century-old organization dedicated to serving, educating, and advocating for veterans and their families. Comprised of male and female spouses, grandmothers, mothers, sisters, and direct and adopted female descendants of members of The American Legion, the ALA stands as a pillar of support within more than 8,000 local communities in the USA and abroad. Founded in 1919 during the inaugural National Convention of The American Legion, the ALA has since become one of the largest veterans' support organizations, carrying out its mission with steadfast dedication.

With a focus on the core values of Service Not Self, the ALA is committed to making a difference for those who have served and sacrificed for their country. For those seeking to get involved and support veterans in meaningful ways, the American Legion Auxiliary offers a welcoming and purpose-driven community to join.

To learn more about the American Legion Auxiliary and become a part of their honorable mission, visit their website at https://www.legion-aux.org/. Join the ALA in upholding a legacy of patriotism and unwavering support for America's finest—its military personnel and their families.

Department President Debbie Michael was born in Berkeley Springs, WV on July 2, 1950. She was raised in Fulton County, PA, where she lived until she was fifteen years old. At that time, her father retired and they moved to Berkeley Springs, where she still lives.

Debbie graduated from Berkeley Springs High School as a member of the Class of “68”.  After high school, she attended West Virginia College of Beauty Culture, graduating in 1969. She worked as a hair stylist for twenty-eight years. After closing her shop, she managed a VFW, owned a bar, and worked as a chef’s assistant.

Her love for the military and her eligibility began when she was five years old, when her brother Charles Bohrer enlisted in the US Air Force serving for twenty-five years, and was a Vietnam veteran.

Since joining the American Legion Auxiliary in 1976, Debbie has served the unit as President, Vice Presidents, Secretary, and Chaplain, and numerous chairman positions.  She has served in the District as President, Vice President, Chaplain, and district committee chairmen.  Debbie on the Department level served as Department First and Second Vice Presidents. She has also served on two committees as chairman.

Debbie’s deceased husband of forty-seven years, “Kat” was a Past Detachment Commander of the SAL.  She has two sons, two step-sons, thirteen grandchildren and one great-grandson.  Her son, daughter-in-law, and two grandsons are all currently serving in the military (Marines & Air Force).  Her family is all members of The American Legion, Auxiliary, and the SAL.

Debbie is currently working for The American Legion Berkeley Springs Post.  In her spare time (which isn’t much) she loves to spend time with her grandchildren and working on crafts.

After family, her love is the military and veterans. Through her American Legion Family, she can volunteer and help veterans and their families.

Past Department Presidents