Dan K. Wiley Elected National Commander of The American Legion

Dan K. Wiley was elected national commander of The American Legion on August 28, 2025, during the 106th National Convention in Tampa, Florida. The American Legion’s chief executive officer, Wiley is an Air Force veteran and retired state district court judge.

Background and Career

Following his service in the Air Force, Wiley earned a bachelor’s degree in business from the College of Great Falls in Montana. He then returned to his hometown of Lawrence, Kansas, to obtain a law degree from the University of Kansas.

Wiley served as a district court judge in Kansas, appointed by the state’s governor in 2008. During his time on the bench, he played a key role in establishing and presiding over the Leavenworth County Veterans Treatment Court.

Beyond his legal and military careers, Wiley has been actively involved in his community. He is a past president of the Leavenworth / Lansing Chamber of Commerce, a past chairman of the Leavenworth County Veterans Day Parade Committee and a former member of the Unified School District 453 School Board.

American Legion Leadership

Wiley has held numerous leadership positions within The American Legion at the post, department (state), and national levels. He is a life member of Byron H. Mehl American Legion Post 23 in Leavenworth and previously served as department commander of Kansas. He also represented Kansas on The American Legion’s National Executive Committee.

Priorities as National Commander

As national commander, Wiley is a strong advocate for The American Legion’s “Be the One” mission, focused on preventing veteran suicide. His theme for his term is “Better Together!”, emphasizing inclusivity within the American Legion Family.

Wiley is also implementing a National Commander’s Pin Incentive Program, awarding his “Be the One” membership pin to Legionnaires who recruit two fresh members during the 2026 membership year. Transfers do not qualify as new members.

Personal Life

Wiley and his wife, Sonia, have two children, Austin and Christy, and one grandson.