James "Jamie” Prestenback, a proud Gold Legacy Life Member of Freddie John Falgout Post 3665 in Raceland, Louisiana, was elected Department of Louisiana Commander during the 94th State Convention. Since joining the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 2017, Jamie has demonstrated unwavering dedication and leadership, holding a variety of key positions including Post Quartermaster, Post Commander, District Commander, State Junior Vice Commander, and State Senior Vice Commander. His outstanding service has earned him the distinction of All-State/All-American Post Commander, District Commander, and Post Quartermaster.

Jamie’s eligibility for VFW membership stems from his deployment to Iraq from 2003 to 2004 during a distinguished military career that spanned over two decades. From 1991 to 2012, he served in the U.S. Army, Louisiana National Guard, and U.S. Army Reserves, steadily rising in responsibility and leadership. His service has been recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, multiple Army Commendation Medals, Army Achievement Medals, the Iraq Campaign Medal with two stars, Combat Action Badge, Drill Sergeant Badge, Air Assault Badge, and an array of other honors.

Outside of his military and VFW service, Jamie is deeply devoted to his family. He and his wife Angela have been happily married for 27 years and are the proud parents of four adult children—Autumn, Alexis, Brooke, and Seth—as well as four beloved grandchildren: Layla, James, Hayes, and Hendrix.

Jamie also dedicated more than 17 years to law enforcement and currently works as a Casualty & Property Claims Adjuster for Saia Motor Freight Line, LLC. In his personal time, he enjoys fishing, cooking, and creating lasting memories with his family.