ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (AP) -- Bob Fulkerson's volunteer work at the local and state level, led to him being selected as national vice commander, southern region, of the Sons of the American Legion.

Fulkerson told The News Enterprise the group's purpose is to honor and support veterans and their families -- and that's what he has strived for over the last 15 years that he has been a member.

"We're a support group of the American Legion, and we're there to support veterans of the American Legion and their families," Fulkerson said.

He joined the Sons of the American Legion at the behest of his father, who was a member of the American Legion, so the two could be active together.

Fulkerson, who is a retired civil employee at Fort Knox, said his primary goal during his term as national vice commander is to increase membership.

"We're a volunteer organization, and in order to survive we need volunteers," he said.

In general, a man can join the group if he is the son, stepson or grandson of an American Legion member who is a wartime veteran.

Even though it has been a challenge to get people to serve, he said the region he represents has hit 50 percent of its goal.

"We're currently in first place," he said.

Although there are many reasons to become active in the group, including all the community service and help that is provided for veterans, Fulkerson said there's one that stands out.

"The most important (reason) to be a member of the Sons of the American Legion is to honor the service of your father," he said.

Fulkerson is also a charter member of the Elizabethtown chapter of Legion Riders, another program of the American Legion for those who enjoy riding motorcycles.

Like Sons of the American Legion, Legion Riders provides community service, raising funds for children's hospitals, schools, veterans' homes, severely wounded service members and scholarships.

Fulkerson said he is working hard to perform his national role effectively, but it wouldn't be possible without support from good members.

"No leader can overcome bad soldiers, but good soldiers can overcome a bad leader," Fulkerson said.