About

Post Namesake

Theodore H. Hernandez American Legion Post 54 is named in honor of Corporal Theodore H. Hernandez—the first Nassau County resident to volunteer for World War I.

He served in Company B, 116th Machine Gun Battalion and passed away at just 21 years old in 1918. He is buried at Bosque Bello Cemetery in Fernandina Beach, where Post members continue to visit and honor him on Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Christmas.

Notable Members

Post 54 has been home to distinguished veterans, including Colonel Elliott “Bud” Sydnor, U.S. Army (Retired).

A Ranger Hall of Fame inductee, Colonel Sydnor served in Vietnam, led the Son Tay POW rescue mission, and received numerous high honors for valor and service throughout his career.

What Make Us Unique

Post 54 is deeply rooted in the history of Fernandina Beach.

Originally housed in a 1939 log cabin built by a local paper mill, the Post carried decades of stories, connection, and community.

In 2009, a new Post home was built at 626 South Third Street, incorporating elements of the original cabin. The former site is now Veterans Memorial Park, where the original fireplace still stands.

Known for its strong sense of community, hospitality, and ties to the local shrimping industry, Post 54 continues to serve veterans and the Fernandina Beach community with pride.