Brandon Sampson and his family lost their home during Hurricane Ida, but nonetheless found a way to help others at the time – and it led him on a fateful path.
“We lost our home, but people needed to eat,” Sampson recalled. “We were going out of town to get food and bring it back to provide hot meals.”
Sampson gestured to those around him at American Legion Post 366 in St. Rose.
“These guys saw and said ‘we’ll back you up.’ And it was an easy choice for me to join,” Sampson said.
Approximately five years later, history was made as Sampson was formally installed into office as 366’s new Post Commander. The veteran becomes the first black commander in the post’s history.
“It’s some big shoes to fill, for sure. It’s a great honor. Honestly, I just look at it as I can’t mess this up, being the first,” Sampson said with a smile. “There’s some pressure with it, but I honestly don’t think about it like that. I just want to be a great commander. Being the first black commander is just a bonus. My grandfather was in the Army. My grandparents were the ones who inspired me to enlist in the Navy. And I know if they could just see me now, they would be proud.”
Sampson enlisted in the Navy in 2000 and was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. He participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom and completed three tours of duty overseas.
After his military service ended, Sampson returned to Louisiana. A disabled veteran, Sampson said the American Legion provided him with resources and ultimately connected him with benefits.
He says he wants to pay that forward.
“When I came in, these guys helped me so much. To be in position where I can point others in the direction to get their benefits, that’s a blessing,” Sampson said.
Sampson served as flag bearer and vice commander at Post 366 before taking on his new role.
He also has a big family, with seven children and five grandchildren. The men and women of the American Legion, likewise, are extended family.
“We can all come together to tell stories. There’s no judgment – we understand each other,” Sampson said. “It’s a great outlet for men and women who are like-minded and understand the struggles of trying to adapt back to civilian life, dealing with different struggles and ailments from the military … it’s people you can really talk to and reach out.”
Sampson is excited about Post 366’s upcoming plans. He said the Post recently hosted a Trunk or Treat event and the aim is to make that an annual tradition again. He said the hall is available for weddings, baby showers and other events, and the hope is to also have it open for community watch events for football games and other sporting events.
“We want to bring some life into the community,” Sampson said.
He also wants to make other veterans aware that the American Legion can provide helpful resources. Sampson stressed the Post is open to new members. Meetings are held the last Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. A hot meal is provided prior to each meeting.
