Honored

Post #13 ‘Legionnaire of the Year’ Alan Joslin, left, is congratulated by Post commander Ronald P. Coderre on the announcement of his award.  (Photo by Cosmo Quercia)

 

 

Joslin honored

as Legionnaire 

of the Year

Special to the Putnam Town Crier

U.S. Navy veteran Alan Joslin was honored July 16 as the Mayotte Viens American Legion Post #13 ‘Legionnaire of the Year.’  The ceremony took place during the Post’s annual Installation of Officers ceremony.

Joslin, a Vietnam veteran, was seriously wounded on Sept. 7, 1969, four kilometers northwest of Cat Lai, Vietnam when the jeep he was driving was ambushed and hit with small arms fire or possibly blown up by a landmine.  He received multiple fracture wounds during the incident.

After being evacuated by helicopter to the 3rd Field Hospital in Saigon, he was later flown to a military hospital in Japan.  He eventually completed his hospitalization at Newport Naval Hospital in Rhode Island.  He spent 11 months in military hospitals.  Joslin was honorably discharged in 1970.  He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his action in Vietnam.

Joslin, who serves as Post #13 Sr. Vice Commander, was honored for his meritorious service to the organization and community.  Since becoming a member of Post #13 Joslin has served as a member of the Post’s Color Guard.  He’s been instrumental in assisting the Post in increasing its membership to its current level of 131 members.

He was one of the members involved in the erection of 16 flags on the Veterans Memorial Bridge on Pomfret Street.  Joslin accepted the community assignment of repairing and displaying the American Flag at Jessica Tuesday’s Restaurant in Putnam.  He serves as a Post liaison to the TriTown American Legion Baseball Committee.  Joslin also accepted a leadership role on behalf of the Post in the recent Veterans Stand down that was held at Quinebaug Valley Community College.

“Alan Joslin is an example of a true American and a dedicated member of our Post.  He’s willing to assist with the everyday duties it takes to make our Post successful and he goes above and beyond with the numerous activities we’re involved in as a veterans organization,” said Ronald P. Coderre, Post Commander.

“I was much honored to receive this distinguished award.  Quite frankly I was very surprised,” said Joslin

Joslin is retired from the State of Connecticut following 30 years of service.  He and his wife Jo-Anne are the parents of two adult daughters.  They live in Putnam.