Jade Bourke is the American Legion Post 44 Legionnaire of the Year for his contributions to Ridgefield and surrounding communities

Jade Bourke has been named the 2025 Legionnaire of the Year by the Ridgefield American Legion Post 44, recognizing Bourke for extraordinary contributions to the American Legion and the Ridgefield community.

Bourke serves as Post 44’s finance officer and is the chairman of the Ridgefield Parade of Flags. Some 15 years ago, Post 44 made its mark by establishing the Parade of Flags program, and today there are more than 200 U.S. flags flown throughout the city to mark holidays and special occasions. Bourke coordinates the posting of these flags with Legionnaires and local community organizations, and this year he mentored a Scout completing his Eagle rank to refurbish the flags and poles to be ready for our nation’s 250th Anniversary in 2026.

“Jade is a huge asset to both our post and Ridgefield community,” said Jen McDonnell, Post 44 Commander. “He’s always taking a leading role in events such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies. He was a Color Guard member for our community’s 4th of July parade. He, along with our other Legionnaires, shows just how committed he is to the well-being of our community and fellow veterans.”

Bourke is a veteran of the U.S. Army where he served for eight years specializing in Satellite Communication Systems Repair. As a civilian, he has served as Field Technician and Manager for Oregon/Southwest Washington with Electric Lightwave/Integra Telecom, progressing to Regional ISP Manager with Zayo.

When it comes to handling “red hot” emergencies, Bourke served for 10 years as a Volunteer Firefighter and EMT with the Woodland Fire Department/Clark Cowlitz Fire Rescue, and for the past three years as a Fire Commissioner with Clark Cowlitz Fire Rescue. He is most proudly the father of four and “papa” of three.