Amanda Pevey
Elmore Autauga News
For more than two decades, Willie J. Rogers has dedicated his life to serving others, first in the U.S. Air Force and later through his work with veterans, students and community organizations across Alabama. Now, the City of Prattville is recognizing that commitment by naming Rogers grand marshal of its 2026 Fourth of July Parade.
“I am honored to have been selected as grand marshal for such a historic occasion,” Rogers said. “It gives me an opportunity to tell people about The American Legion because I’ll be wearing my hat, and they’ll learn about the work I do with the organization. As my daughter likes to say, ‘I’m proud to see my daddy representing the city I grew up in.'”
Following a 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Rogers continued his commitment to service through veteran and community organizations. Known by many as “Commander Rogers,” he recently completed a term as commander of the Department of Alabama American Legion, serving veterans throughout the state.
Much of Rogers’ volunteer work has focused on supporting young people. From recognizing outstanding JROTC cadets at Prattville High School to help lead statewide youth programs, he has spent years promoting leadership, citizenship and public service among Alabama students.
Today, Rogers remains active in advancing the four pillars of The American Legion: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children and Youth. Founded in 1919, the organization supports veterans, military families, young people and communities through a wide range of programs.
“I think one of the things that motivates veterans is the opportunity to help other veterans,” Rogers said. “That’s what The American Legion is all about. We’re here to support veterans and their families. One of our most important missions is our children’s and youth programs, making sure the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice are cared for, especially their children.”
Rogers’ service has extended beyond Prattville. He helps organize the city’s annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances, bringing together veteran organizations and community leaders to honor those who served. Through his work with the Alabama War Memorial Committee, he also helped secure funding for a major restoration project at the Montgomery War Memorial.
His dedication to service earned him the 2025 Frank Lamar Citizen of Character Award from the Prattville Autauga Character Coalition.
In addition to his veteran and civic work, Rogers remains active in his church, participating in outreach programs that support local schools and students.
Rogers said one of the things he appreciates most about Prattville is the community’s support for veterans.
“Prattville shows you what they think about our veterans,” he said. “Especially around Memorial Day, when you see the banners and photos of veterans displayed throughout the city. It makes you feel welcome, and that’s how my family and I have felt for the past 22 years. It’s a great community, a great place to raise children, and it’s easy to get involved and make a difference.”
Throughout his years of service, Rogers has shared a simple message with fellow veterans: “Veterans, you have not been forgotten.”
That message extends beyond those who served in uniform.
“When we talk about veterans, we’re also talking about their families,” he said. “They’re the ones who stayed home, kept things together and supported their loved ones while they served. We have a responsibility to take care of veterans when they come home and make sure they know they belong.”
Rogers said supporting veterans also means addressing issues such as isolation and suicide while encouraging people to look out for one another.
“Our motto is, ‘Be the one to save one,'” he said. “If one veteran is lost to suicide, that’s one too many. Sometimes it starts with a simple question: ‘Are you ok?’
He said organizations such as The American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and other veteran service groups share the same mission of supporting veterans and their families.
Rogers also emphasized the importance of recognizing women who have served in the military.
“Our women veterans deserve to be recognized,” he said. “They served our country just like anyone else, and they should always be included when we talk about veterans.”
Rogers and his wife of 42 years, Sherrie, are both retired from the U.S. Air Force. The couple remain active in American Legion Post 122 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1349 in Prattville. Together, they have four children, 11 grandchildren, one grandchild on the way and three great-grandchildren.
As Prattville celebrates the nation’s 250th birthday, Rogers will lead the Fourth of July Parade as a representative of the values he has spent a lifetime promoting: service to country, commitment to veterans and investment in the community he has called home for more than 20 years.
