The American Legion Post 43 recognized its Citizen of the Year for 2024, Jennifer Slown, during its Annual Citizen of the Year / Honoring Past Commanders Dinner on April 20.
Jennifer and her husband Scott and three children (Riley, Madison and Luke) live in Naperville. Jennifer joined the Marine Corps in 2009. She later attended Officers Candidate School and was commissioned in 2016. Jennifer is currently a Captain in the Marine Corps Reserves.
From March 2020 until May 2023, Jennifer was co-chairman of the Woody Williams Medal of Honor Foundation’s Gold Star Family Memorial initiative in Naperville. During this period of time, and in collaboration with Century Walk Corporation, this committee faced immense world supply chain challenges due to the Pandemic. Her leadership and expertise in helping to coordinate the off-shore vendors, shipping companies, domestic Port Authorities, and transportation carriers, contributed to the success of this project.
Jennifer’s dedication and determination to America’s fallen, the unintentional victims of war, and their families was unwavering. The six-foot-tall granite monument was installed in Naperville’s Veterans Park, and dedicated on Memorial Day weekend on May 27, 2023.
In addition to raising three children and working with her husband in real estate, Jennifer has organized the Disney Karaoke Fundraiser at the VFW Post in recent years.
This event has raised money for the VFW National Children’s Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan.
In addition, Jennifer also volunteers her time and serves as Sr. Vice Commander for The American Legion Post 43 and is an active member also in VFW Post 3873.
Jennifer started the Veteran Business Connection, which helps promote Veteran-owned businesses. She is a Marine for Life and helps coordinate Marines with the transition from active duty to civilian life. Jennifer also is a member of the Women Marines Association and Toys for Tots organizations.
—Richard Yndestad, Chairman, Citizen of the Year Committee / Photo by Ashley Penick
