Silver Bay, MN — On May 22, American Legion Post 109 held its annual membership meeting and election of officers, marking a leadership transition for the local veterans organization.
Doug Frericks was elected as the new Post Commander, succeeding outgoing Commander Chris Belfield. Other officers elected include Vince Sando as First Vice Commander, Lee Tagg as Second Vice Commander, and Rey Lakso as Post Finance Officer.
A familiar name to many in the Silver Bay community, Frericks brings deep local roots and a long-standing commitment to public service. Born and raised in Silver Bay, he served as the city’s Chief of Police from 2014 to 2019. Frericks is also an Army veteran, continuing a family tradition of military service.
His father, Don Frericks, served in the Army during the Korean War and was at one time Commander of the Silver Bay VFW Post.
Over the past six years, Frericks has been actively involved in the American Legion in a variety of roles, including service on the Honor Guard. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Lake County Veterans Memorial Association. His dedication to honoring veterans was evident this past Memorial Day, when he participated in three services in Two Harbors before taking part in the ceremony at the Silver Bay Veterans Home. Following the service, Frericks laid wreaths at Silver Bay Cemetery, Crystal Bay Cemetery, and Sawtooth Mountain Cemetery.
As he begins his term as Post Commander, Frericks emphasized the importance of engagement and outreach. “I want to reach out to all veterans from the Silver Bay, Finland, and Isabella areas and encourage them to get involved in the Legion,” he said. “We are always looking for new members—whether that’s joining the Honor Guard, serving on the Executive Board, or simply volunteering for small projects. It’s not just a bar or something limited to Two Harbors; it’s a place where veterans can come together, relax, and connect with one another.”
Frericks is pictured alongside Amy Carlson, President of the Legion Post Auxiliary. Carlson also serves as the General Manager of the Post and has strong ties to the Silver Bay community.
Veterans interested in joining American Legion Post 109 can email members.post109@gmail. com or call 218-306-4827 for more information. Women interested in learning more about the Post Auxiliary can email auxiliaryunit109@ gmail.com or call 218-306-4825.
