American Legion Post 108 selects Norm Manly as 2025 Legionnaire of the Year

MANSON — American Legion Post 108 in Manson has named Norman “Norm” Manly as its 2025 Legionnaire of the Year, recognizing his years of service to veterans and the local community.

Manly, a longtime Manson resident, has been an active member of Post 108 since joining the organization in 2013. At his first meeting, he was appointed Post Service Officer, a position he continues to hold.

As Post Service Officer, Manly works to ensure veterans and their families understand and can access the benefits and resources available to them. This includes assistance with American Legion programs such as Temporary Financial Assistance, as well as services provided by state and federal agencies and local community partners. The role often involves helping veterans navigate benefit claims, identify available support and connect with appropriate experts.

The position remains especially important as many veterans who served during or after the Vietnam era may be unaware of the benefits they have earned. Manly works closely with Chelan County Veterans Service Officers John Tanguin and Anna Witherington to help ensure local veterans receive appropriate assistance.

Manly’s service began long before he moved to Manson. Born and raised in Tacoma, he graduated from Wilson High School in June 1961 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy the following month. After completing boot camp in San Diego, he was assigned to Treasure Island in San Francisco, where he worked in the legal office while awaiting orders.

He was later assigned to the USS Firm (MSO-444) in Long Beach, Calif., where he became a striker for the Quartermaster rating and attended navigation schools. During his service, the USS Firm made goodwill visits to Portland for the Rose Festival, Seattle for Seafair, and Esquimalt, British Columbia.

In 1963, Manly completed a nine-month Western Pacific deployment that included stops at Subic Bay, Hong Kong and Yokosuka, as well as a two-week operation off the coast of Borneo. He was discharged from active duty in Long Beach as a Quartermaster 3rd Class (E-5) and transferred to the Naval Reserve. He received his honorable discharge on July 24, 1964.

This marks the second time Manly has been named Legionnaire of the Year. He previously received the honor in 2021. Post officials cited his continued service, leadership and commitment to veterans and the community in selecting him again for the award.

Marie Cannon contributed to this report.