SCRANTON, Pa. — It was a show of honor in Scranton to honor the life and legacy of Pennsylvania's American Legion Department Commander Stephen Lavelle.
"He was there, and he mentored me through a lot of the things that we do in the American Legion. And that's why I love it so much; we are a family," said Richard Schloendora, U.S. Navy veteran and American Legion Historian.
That family is showing in incredible numbers, including his right-hand man, Bill Whitmoyer.
"Steve was more than just a commander; he was a really close friend and one of the first people that made me feel welcome in the American Legion and a big reason why I am where I am," said Whitmoyer, PA Commander American Legion.
Lavelle was a U.S. Navy veteran serving off the coast of Vietnam before taking the top spot with the Veteran's Association.
"He was very proud of that. Very proud of that. For the longest time, the Blue Water veterans were not accepted as Vietnam vets, and when they finally were, he was very happy about that," said Schloendora.
His passing leaves behind a big void, but his impact is even bigger.
"He was a great guy, a family man and the American Legion was also his family. He was always fun but always had great leadership he could herd cats," said Whitmoyer.
Those who knew him best had a hard time finding the right words.
"There's no words. There's no words," said Schloendora.
But there are no words needed with a tribute like this.