American Legion Post 853 • Desert Breeze is on Hiatus until September 2026
FROM THE COMMANDER TO MEMBERS OF POST 853
May 29, 2026
Greeting to all the Members of American Legion Post 853, Borrego Springs, California.
As the newly elected Commander, I would like to ask for a few minutes of your time.
First, I would like to thank Former Commander Dale Jones for his leadership and guidance of Post 853 over the past 3 years. I know that I have very big shoes to fill and can’t thank him enough for his countless hours of sacrifice and dedication to our post. I wish him fair winds and following seas as he takes time to pursue personal endeavors with his wife, Gina Moran. Thank you again, Dale.
Next, I would like to thank Jim Keith. Jim has been the First Vice, bar manager, facilities manager, RV park manager, and has taken on many other behind-the-scenes tasks that have improved our post in ways that are seen and unseen by our members. In his time (with the many hats he has taken on and worn for Post 853) he has spent countless hours improving and guiding our post to be a beacon for other posts to follow and emulate. Thank you, Jim.
I would also like to take a moment to acknowledge and thank Madam President of our American Legion Auxiliary, ChrisAnn Wells, and the Commander of our Sons of the American Legion, Chris Pederson. With their leadership of their respective families and immeasurable hours of dedication I feel we have a great family team. Thank you to both for all that you do for Post 853.
To our Finance Officer, Heide White, I can’t thank you enough for your many hours keeping our finances in order and ensuring that we remain in compliance with the many reports that are needed to operate as an American Legion Post. Thank you, Heide.
To our Bargain Barn Manager, Mitzi Seibert, and her crew of volunteers, a huge thank you! As many of you know, Mitzi will be stepping to the side and Dave Hemesath will be managing the Bargain Barn. Do not fear — Mitzi will still be involved in an advisor capacity. The Bargain Barn is a much-needed resource for our post and community, and is appreciated by locals and visitors alike. Thank you, Mitzi, and your team.
Our Sergeant at Arms, Bob Scribner, and your team, thank you for what you do from displaying the flags at Christmas Circle to ensuring that the rifle team represents the Patriotism and Americanism that is one of the pillars of the American Legion Organization. Thank you.
Post 853 Bingo Manager, Gina Moran, will be stepping out and Cryss Rigdon will be stepping in as bingo manager. Thank you, Gina, and your team for all that you have done with bringing Tuesday Bingo to the post and the contributions that you and your team have made to the community.
Last, but definitely not least, our Executive Board and Appointed Officers — thank you. Our Post could not be as successful in the support of our members and the community without you and your guidance.
I apologize if I left anyone out — it definitely was not intentional. As you can see there are many members that ensure that Post 853 is the amazing post that it is.
This year our Legionnaires election brought some change to our officers.
Commander: Dennis A. O’Leary, II
1st Vice Commander: Dave Hemesath
2nd Vice Commander: Vacant
Finance Officer: Heide White
Judge Advocate: Gary Saunders
Sergeant at Arms: Bob Scribner
Executive Board:
Ed Cate
Paul Schuessler
Loren Butterfield
Sue Bosworth
I look forward to this team leading Post 853 into a successful 2026/2027 year.
To the members of Post 853, please take a moment to congratulate these officers on their selections and election to their offices. The operation of Post 853 is definitely a team effort.
I would like to encourage each and every member to attend meetings to express ideas. It’s important to understand what goes into making decisions that keep our post thriving.
With a new team of officers will come changes; some will be noticed and some will be behind the scenes. Whether you are a member at large that lives in Borrego full time or part time and visits occasionally or are active in the post through countless hours of volunteer time (gold stars on your lanyard) or a barstool, cocktails, and camaraderie member, or a combination of, I would like to ask that if you have an idea or suggestion that you let us know your thoughts either by asking the bartender for a suggestion form, by reaching out through email to post853commander@gmail.com or by attending a house committee meeting to ensure that your suggestions and ideas are addressed.
I look forward to engaging with each and every one of you and thank you for your participation in Post 853
For God and Country,
Dennis A. O’Leary, II
Commander Post 853
Borrego Springs, California
Gunnery Sergeant, USMC (Ret)
