Wayne Baumgartner
Honoree Profile
US Air Force
Wayne Baumgartner served in the United States Air Force during Vietnam, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Mr. Baumgartner earned numerous recognitions, including the Good Conduct Medal, USAF Commendation Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Republic of Vietnam Medal.
He is a 52-year member of the American Legion and has served in several positions, including Post Commander, Post Adjutant, 1st Vice Commander, and 3rd Vice Commander. He currently serves as 2nd Vice Commander.
Mr. Baumgartner is active in Post meetings and is a volunteer and organizer of Post events including membership drives and solicitation of donations. He has managed raffles supporting children and youth and has worked to provide much-needed backpacks for school children. Mr. Baumgartner collected, purchased, and delivered Post-sponsored holiday gifts and food for families in need.
A proud veteran, he was the coordinator and Marshal of the Memorial Day Parade from 2009-2020 and the Marshal of the Veterans Day Parade at the County Fair from 2009-2018. Mr. Baumgartner visits veterans at local hospitals and nursing homes and participates in monthly programming at the VA hospital. He participates in wake services for members of the Post, ensuring proper veterans' honors.
Mr. Baumgartner is a graduate of the Civilian Police Academy and serves as an Alumni Assistant Instructor during training classes. He supervises CERT team participation at local events and is a mock Triage Victim for Town Police and Paramedic training classes and exercises. He volunteers numerous hours to fundraise and support events held by the police and fire departments, including Mercy Flight and the annual charity hockey game.
Mr. Baumgartner was recognized as the Veteran of the Month in 2018, Erie County Legionnaire of the Year in 2019, and 8th District Legionnaire of the Year and Department of New York Legionnaire of the Year in 2020.
He has been married for over 59 years and is the proud parent of five children, 16 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
