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The longtime director of the division retired this month after 17 years in the position.

Former American Legion Director of Veterans Employment & Education Joe Sharpe was honored at the VE&E commission meeting at the 107^th National Convention in Louisville, Ky., on Aug. 29.

After American Legion Auxiliary National President Pam Ray spoke to the commission, she invited Past National President Linda Boone to the podium to celebrate Sharpe on his retirement.

“We really appreciate the commitment Joe Sharpe has for our missions. We’ve been lucky to have him serve us,” said Boone, who presented him with a gift from the living past national presidents.

Three past national commanders of �鶹��ƵAV, each of whom served as chairman of the Veterans Employment & Education Commission, also spoke about Sharpe.

“If you want to touch young veterans, this is where it’s at. That comes from him,” said PNC Daniel Seehafer.

“Joe means an awful lot to us. He was a great mentor and a great friend,” added PNC James LaCoursiere Jr.

PNC Paul Dillard thanked Sharpe for his work with the Department of Texas on job fairs and transition assistance programs and credited him for developing “a great team” in the employment and education division at the Legion’s D.C. office.

“He had that special quality about him,” Dillard said.

Sharpe was appointed director of what was then called the Economic Division in April 2009. Ariel de Jesus was named to replace him earlier this month upon Sharpe’s retirement.