TROY — Mitch Fogle has announced his departure from the Miami Valley Veterans Museum. After six years of serving in the role of executive director, Fogle has decided to take a new path in life.

Fogle shares a large part of the success the museum has had since its inception in 2009, according to president Tristan Weis. The museum also is announcing a few other key position changes.

Fogle, a Navy veteran and resident of Troy, began working with the museum in 2009 and took over as executive director in 2010. Over the last six years, Fogle has logged thousands of volunteer hours with the museum and been integral to day-to- day operations.

“We wish him the best as he seeks new challenges and rewards,” Weis said in a press release.

Command Sergeant Major Jeffrey Stapleton (Army-RET) has been tentatively selected to replace Fogle as executive director. Stapleton is the former executive director and veterans service officer at the Miami County Veterans Service Commission.

“We are excited to have someone with such a strong background in leadership and veterans’ issues as Stapleton,” Weis said. “He did an exceptional job in improving processes, customer service and community relations with the Veterans Service Commission and we know he will continue to exceed expectations with the museum.”

Carl DeSantis, an Army veteran, was elected to a newly created position on the board in December with his term running from Jan. 1, 2017, to Dec. 31, 2020. DeSantis is the director of communications.

“He has a strong background in public communication and is assisting the museum communication with members, supporters, sponsors, and the citizens of the Miami Valley,” Weis said.

The Miami Valley Veterans Museum was established in 2009 as a way to honor, preserve, and perpetuate the contribution that American veterans made while in service. We are open Wednesday and Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm and host a monthly breakfast meeting the first Wednesday of each month that includes guest speakers.

“The Miami Valley Veterans Museum looks forward to another great year of growth, celebration and continued commitment to honoring, preserving, and perpetuating the contributions and sacrifices of men and women from the Miami Valley that have served in uniform,” Weis concluded.

For more information, visit www.miamivalleyveteransmuseum.com.