Effective veteran service organizations have strong and passionate leaders that take care of their members by continually maintaining connections and looking after their needs.  

Ernest A. Love Legion Post 6 is fortunate to be one of these organizations due to the stewardship of Sam McPherson.

Sam McPherson served as the Commander of Ernest A. Love Post for the 2024-2026 terms.  He is a Prescottian and a patriot who loves his hometown, his country, and the American Legion family.   

Sam was born in San Diego, CA and his father served in the U.S. Navy. His mother hails from Prescott and worked at the VA Canteen for 20 years.

Sam graduated from Prescott High School, following in the footsteps of Ernest A. Love, though their graduations were separated by 67 years. After completing high school and working as a Dairy Clerk at Safeway, Sam enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1984, where he served for 28 years.  He achieved the rank of Senior Master Sergeant (E-8).

Serving as a Missile Electronic Equipment Specialist (AFSC 316X2G), Sam worked on the electronics systems of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM- Minuteman III).  His duty stations included Minot, ND, tech schools in Chanute AFB in Rantoul, IL, Vandenburg AFB, and Malmstrom Air Force Base. 

Electronic maintenance of Command and Control, Security and Power distribution systems of the missiles was critical, and Sam diligently chased “green time” readiness for launch.

When he returned to his hometown in 2014, Sam joined the American Legion Post 6. Jack Taylor recruited him and he quickly volunteered to support the veterans and youth of the community as the Americanism chair, presenting ROTC awards to the cadets in the local schools. 

Sam is a natural born leader and has served in numerous officer roles at Post 6 including: Commander of Sons of the American Legion (S.A.L.), 2 Year Executive, 2^nd Vice Commander, and Post Commander.

The thing that impresses me most about Sam is his love of his volunteers.  He consistently appreciates and acknowledges the lifeblood of any non-profit veteran organization- the volunteer members.  I proudly wear the Army Veteran Legion shirt he gifted me at a monthly meeting last year.

Sam also loves serving people- literally and figuratively and prepared hundreds of meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. His bacon guacamole burgers on Thursday nights were a big crowd-pleaser, and he always wears a smile with his Legion Apron.

Sam married his lovely wife Megan Asbury in September of 2022 who is active in the Ernest A. Love Auxiliary Unit 6. Megan was elected Auxiliary President for the 2025-2026 term.

Sam enjoyed and supported the American Legion Riders (ALR) and participated in the Ride that Matters- a multi-day fundraising ride around the western U.S. to help children and veterans in need.  Another local event where Sam represented Post 6 was the annual Wreaths across America at the Prescott National Cemetery.

Sam built bridges with the community and ensured that Post 6 was an active member of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce.  He led with heart, enthusiasm and empathy and deeply cared for his officers and the members of all the Post 6 families- Post, Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion, and the American Legion Riders.

Sam brought people together and fostered the sense of family at Post 6- a team that looks out for each other and works together as one.

When I asked Sam what he liked most about being in the military, he stated, “Being a Leader and taking care of people”.

When asked what he did not like about his time in the Air Force, he sadly replied, “Not deploying to combat operations”.

Sam McPherson is a dedicated leader who has served in multiple roles at Ernest A. Love Post 6 and consistently demonstrates his appreciation for volunteers and his community. He is known for his heartfelt service. His leadership is defined by caring for others and bringing people together.