Above / Six Past Commanders from the American Legion Post 43 attended the annual dinner last April when all Past Commanders and the 2024 Citizen of the Year Jennifer Slown were recognized. The official date of Naperville American Legion Post 43 permanent charter was September 28, 1920. Past Commander Nadia Baran, pictured third from left, will be honored as 2025 Citizen of the Year. (2024 Photo by AMP for PN)
FYI: Dinner reservations are due Wed., April 23, by contacting Kristen Jungles via email at kristenjungles@kw.com or by phone/text (630) 816-6841.
The 2025 Naperville American Legion Citizen of the Year, an honor that’s been bestowed on a dedicated volunteer since 1986, will be presented during the Annual Past Commanders Dinner set to begin at 5:30PM Sat., April 26.
According to Award Committee Chairman Rich Yndestad, the nominee’s service must be in support of the Naperville area or its bordering communities. Members of the American Legion, Sons of the Legion, VFW, and Auxiliary are eligible, but the award is not limited to Veterans. The individual’s service must have been performed in a volunteer capacity, rather than as part of compensated employment.
Yndestad also notes that Naperville is blessed with an abundance of people who serve their fellow citizens. Residents are encouraged to begin now to consider someone to nominate in 2026.
This year’s Citizen of the Year, Nadia Baran, also is a Past Commander of the American Legion Post 43.
American Legion Post 43 pays tribute to volunteer service
American Legion Post 43 Citizen of the Year 2025, Nadia Baran
“It is my honor to present Post 43 Citizen of the Year for 2025, Nadia Baran,” writes Rich Yndestad, Committee Chairman.
“Nadia has been very active in Post 43 for a number of years. Starting as Post 43 Adjutant, Junior Vice Commander, then Senior Vice Commander, and finally as Post Commander, she has served well. Her leadership through these years has helped grow the Post membership to well over 500 Legionnaires, including several years at 100%.
“Nadia brings her own personal touch to every position and/or Post job that she takes on. She serves this community by helping make Post 43 programs and positions stronger and more productive. Currently Nadia is again our Post Adjutant and is the Past Commander of our Naperville American Legion Post 43, having served two (2) years as Post Commander.
“In addition, Nadia has been very active and involved with both Naperville Central and Naperville North High Schools Student Veterans Clubs. Her dedication has helped them grow their programs and activities.
“Here are just some of the events and charities she has supported: “Operation Her Story,” American Legion Golf Outing. “22 a Day” suicide prevention to support area Veterans and VFW Karaoke Party with Heroes. She also served as DuPage County Coordinator for the Marines “Toys for Tots” drive, supports the combined Blood Drive with American Legion Posts 84 and 43 and coordinates the volunteers for “Naper Nights” fundraiser at Naper Settlement.
“Nadia also is very active in the Naperville Marines, the organization with the purpose to hold the Annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball here in Naperville. Her efforts have produced very successful events for the past 5-6 years.
“Nadia also maintains Post 43 website and has helped to update The American Legion Riders website, as well.
“Finally, Nadia shows off her culinary skills annually by cooking and coordinating the Thanksgiving and St. Patrick’s Day dinners and various other social events throughout the year.”
Dinner & Social is April 26 / Community is welcome!
American Legion Dinners are held monthly, September through April, in Kendall Hall, located at 908 W. Jackson Avenue.
The Annual Past Commanders Dinner when the 2025 Citizen of the Year will be honored is set to begin with a social hour at 5:30PM Sat., April 26. Dinner buffet will be served at 6:30PM.
The menu served by Mission BBQ will include choices of “Pulled Chicken, Pulled Pork, Beef Brisket, Macaroni and Cheese, Baked Beans, Coleslaw and Cornbread.”
Reservations are due the Wednesday prior to the dinner by contacting Kristen Jungles via email at kristenjungles@kw.com or by phone/text (630) 816-6841. Singles, couples and families are welcome. Tables are set for eight. Dinner is $15 for adults and $7 for ages 7-14; free for ages 6-0. Pay for dinner at the door. Cash bar is available. Attendees are welcome to bring desserts to share.
The community is invited to attend the dinner.
LAST UPDATED / April 17, 2025
