Bernita Barnett Makes History as Mississippi Legion Commander

The American Legion Department of Mississippi has a new leader who is making history. Bernita Barnett was sworn in as department commander in July 2026, becoming the first Black woman and only the second woman to hold the state’s top Legion post, the Daily Corinthian reported.

A First for the Mississippi Legion

The Department of Mississippi is the statewide headquarters for the American Legion’s local posts, which serve veterans and their families in communities across the state, including Corinth. The Legion’s own history shows the department elected its first woman commander, Angela Baughman, in 2013. Barnett is the second.

The state Legion’s 2026-2027 district roster, last updated in August, lists Barnett as Department Commander.

What a Department Commander Does

A department commander is the elected head of the Legion in the state. The role generally involves visiting posts, representing Mississippi veterans at state and national events, and promoting Legion programs such as veterans’ assistance, youth activities and community service.

The Daily Corinthian describes Barnett as continuing a record of service to fellow veterans through her leadership in the organization.

Find a Legion Post Near You

Veterans in Alcorn County can find Corinth-area posts through the Mississippi Legion’s district listings at msamlegion.org. The posts hold regular meetings and community events.

Source: Daily Corinthian