Myron Lemperele receives the Humanitarian of the Year Award from the American Legion District 7. Photo by Richard Gatto
Myron Lemperele, a member of Honeoye Falls Post #664 for 12 years, recently received two Humanitarian of the Year Awards, one from the American Legion Monroe County and the other from the American Legion District 7.
Lemperele is an eight year Veteran of the United States Air Force serving during the Vietnam era from 1960 -1968. He attended USAF schools in Austin, Texas, Denver, Colorado and Rantoul, Illinois. He was assigned to USAF bases in Pennsylvania, Texas, England and Greenland with temporary assignments to Italy, Libya, Portugal and Spain. He received an Honorable discharge with the rank of Staff Sergeant. He has been an active member of the American Legion for 34 years serving in positions as Commander, Vice Commander, Membership Officer and Honor Guard rituals member for burials, dedications and programs requiring an Honor Guard. He is currently enrolled in the American Legion on-line training program.
Upon retirement in 2000, Lemperele volunteered to help Habitat for Humanity as an electrician with housing projects in Monroe and Livingston counties. He continues to offer that frequently requested skill to Habitat volunteers and projects as needed. Lemperele volunteers with church and school members to collect food and donations for the various Food cupboards located in Monroe and Livingston counties. In addition, he provides assistance to local Scouts with the annual placement of flags at veteran’s graves at the local cemeteries.
He also assists with annual ceremonies for the dignified disposal of worn or unserviceable American flags. He is very active in the Legion Buddy Program by helping local veterans in his community raking leaves, doing home repairs and checking in on their personal welfare.
Lemperele served on the Pastoral Council and advisory committees at the three worship sites located in the area of residence. The advice and guidance came from years of experience at no charge. The administrative, electrical and mechanical training he received in the military and through employment has been instrumental in Paying-It Forward by volunteering numerous hours and labor to help with significant savings for recipients and promoting a positive atmosphere for the Legion. Lemperele never looks for any monetary or personal recognition. This is a classic example of a veteran doing what was intended.
