American Legion members gathered recently at the Shoemaker-Haydt American Legion Post #314 in Lehighton to honor Commander Stephen J. DeFranco, Eastern vice commander.

Harry Wynn III of Lehighton was the master of ceremonies.

DeFranco was born and raised in Roseto. He graduated from Bangor Area High School in 1966. After graduating high school, he attended Allentown Electronic Training Center, now known as Lincoln Tech, where he studied to become an electronic technician.

In 1968 he joined the U.S. Army. After completing basic training and radio school for Advance Communications he was assigned to the 25th Infantry Division in Vietnam. He received several awards during his time in Vietnam, including the Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Badge, National Defense Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and the Bronze Star Medal.

DeFranco joined the American Legion during his last year in Vietnam and has been a member for 52 years. He served three terms as post commander, one term as county commander, two terms as 30th District Commander and two years as Eastern vice commander.

Stephen and his wife, Patricia, have three children: Son, Stephen Jr. and his wife Suzanne and grandson Daniel; daughter Tanya and her husband Anthony; and Son Domenick and his wife Jessica, granddaughter Capri and one on the way.