Navy League changes leaders, honors members

By David Williams

Special to the News-Times

The Oak Harbor Area Council, Navy League of the United States, along with community and military leaders and friends, gathered at the Whidbey Island Naval Air Station Chief Petty Officers’ Club on Feb. 11 to participate in the council’s ninth awards banquet and the 34th “Change of the Watch.”

The occasions for the event were the completion of outgoing president Dick Devlin’s successful two-year term of office, the honoring of those members of the council and the community who have contributed most significantly to the council’s accomplishments during Devlin’s term of office, and the passing of the mantle of leadership to incoming council President Tom Tack and his board of officers.

The Presentation of Colors was performed by the Oak Harbor High School NJROTC color guard, and the national anthem and special music was performed by the Daybreak Trio, consisting of Jim Bailey, Paula Mains and Charisse Waldron. Following a “Year in Review” presentation by Devlin, awards were presented as follows:

• Navy League Scroll of Honor — Navy League Chaplain David Lura

• Notable New Member — Tom Tack

• Community Service Award — Mike Johannsen

• President’s Award — Diane Devlin

• John Vanderzicht Memorial Hall of Honor — Dick Devlin

Following the presentation of awards, Devlin reflected on the many successes of the council during his term in office and the hard work of the members in bringing those successes about. He will continue his involvement as past council president and plans to serve at the area, regional and national level as those opportunities permit. His wife, Diane, will continue to serve as council secretary.

Incoming president Tom Tack, his vice presidents and other officers were sworn in by former council president, Washington state president and National Director Wallie Funk. Funk, the former longtime editor of the Whidbey News-Times, is know as “Mr. Navy League” because of his many years of service and successes in the organization.

The Navy League motto is “Citizens in support of the sea services” — Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine. The Oak Harbor Area Council has, over its 54-year history, worked diligently to support sailors, marines and their families. The council has received numerous awards over the year and stand among the very best of the many councils that comprise the Navy League. Membership is open to all who share a common interest in support of the sea services.

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