John R. Miga was elected state commander last week in Syracuse.

DUNKIRK — John R. Miga, a U.S. Army veteran from Dunkirk, is the new commander of The American Legion in New York State.

His election as state commander culminated in the 107th Department of New York Convention held in Syracuse last week. During his one-year term, Miga will visit American Legion Posts across the state, bringing to local communities the Legion’s action-oriented message of support for veterans, families and community.

In particular, he will champion the “Be the One” campaign to curb veteran suicide. Miga is a retired representative of Prudential Insurance and Financial Services. In the army, he trained as an infantryman and served at the 38th Parallel in South Korea.

He ultimately became an Army cook and kitchen supervisor. His service was from October 1966 to October 1968.

A life member of Dunkirk Memorial Post 62, Miga has served as commander of his Post, Chautauqua County American Legion, and the Department of New York’s Eighth District. On the national level, he has been a member of the Americanism Council.

He also was honored as a life member of ANAVICUS (Army, Navy, Air Force Veterans in Canada-U.S.).

His community involvement includes: Northern Chautauqua Kiwanis Club (president and board member); Little League coach; Junior Bowling coach; board member of various social clubs; and 25-plus-year blood donor.

He and his wife, Audrey, have two adult children and seven grandchildren. They are all members of the American Legion Family, including the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion.