About
Welcome to Post 419 of the American Legion, where patriotism thrives and community service defines our mission. Located in the heart of New Jersey, our post is a gathering place for those who share a deep love for our country and a commitment to giving back to our community. As proud veterans and patriots, we honor the sacrifices of our servicemen and women, past and present.
Ruth Cordner
Post 419, Commander
Ruth is a retired US Army Reservist. She started her military career with the New Jersey Army National Guard assigned to the 250th Signal Battalion and later transferred to the US Army Reserves for the next 18 years.
Her assignments included the 7th Army Reserve Command, 7th Civil Support Command and the Chief of Army Reserve. She is a Gulf War and Global War Terror Veteran.
Patrick (Pat) Collins
Post Adjutant
Pat is a Jersey City boy and enlisted in the US Army right after high school. He attended Basic Training and AIT at Fort Sill Oklahoma. He was assigned to HHB 2/3 Field Artillery – 3rd Armor Division in Butzback Germany. After he completed his military duty, he returned to Jersey City. His entire career he worked in Jersey City.
Patrick has always been active in his community, volunteering with the Church and a strong community activist. He currently holds the position of Adjutant for the American Legion Jersey City Beacon Post 419. He is totally committed to mutual helpfulness in all that he does. In 2024, he was recognized for his services to Veterans by the City of Jersey City.
Jim Santiago
First Vice Commander
Jim joined the active-duty Air Force in July of 1977, where he went to Lackland Air Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas for Basic Training, then to Chanute Air Force Base in Illinois for training as a Fuel System Specialist on military aircraft.
He arrived at his first duty station was at Twin Bases RAF Bentwaters/RAF Woodbridge in the United Kingdom under the 81st Tactical Fighter Wing in December of 1977. After 2 years in the United Kingdom he was sent to Little Rock AFB, Arkansas in January of 1980 with the 314th Military Airlift Command for 2.5 years. He separated from active duty in March of 1982. In April of 1984 he reenlisted into the 514 Military Airlift Command Air Force Command (Field Maintenance Squadron) at McGuire AFB, NJ and served in the active reserves for 7 years.
Jim is very dedicated and always one of the first to head out and help a veteran in need. In 2024, he was recognized for his services to Veterans by the City of Jersey City
Vera Bland
Second Vice Commander
Vera Bland U S Army (Retired) – more to follow
Volunteer at Post 419
Volunteering with Post 419 of the American Legion in New Jersey is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our community while fostering a deep sense of camaraderie and patriotism. Our volunteers are the backbone of our organization, dedicating their time and skills to support our veterans, advocate for American values, and engage in various community service initiatives.
Whether you’re assisting with veteran outreach programs, organizing patriotic events, or participating in youth mentoring activities, your commitment to service is a testament to your dedication to our country and its principles. Volunteering at Post 419 is a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, build lasting friendships, and play a vital role in preserving the traditions and values that make America great. Join us, and together, we’ll continue to make a difference in the lives of veterans and our local community.
We could use your help at Post 419
© 2025 American Legion Post 419