Sterling woman becomes first female commander of American Legion Post 296

Susan Foss, a Sterling native and U.S. Army veteran, is the first woman to serve as commander of Sterling American Legion Post 296.Foss is a continuous 33-year member of the post that was established in 1919. For the commander position, nominations are taken every year. Foss first assumed the role when the previous commander stepped down, and she remained commander for two years. In May, she was nominated again and began her second term as commander. “It was the largest membership meeting in recorded history,” Foss said of the meeting when she first became commander. She said 41 members came to the meeting, which typically draws about 10 to 15 members.“The first year, you just learn. The second year, you actually know what you’re doing,” Foss said. “I’m ahead of the game this time.”The Sterling Legion is “very big” with 219 members, Foss said.The post also has members belonging to the Sons of the American Legion and auxiliary members, Foss said. The auxiliary “used to be called the Lad