For the first time in its five-year history, the American Legion Nansemond Post 88 was paid a visit on Thursday by the national commander.

Bright and early, Dan Dellinger attended the post’s regular meeting venue — Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9382’s headquarters on Pughsville Road — for coffee, doughnuts and discussion.

“I try to make every state,” said Dellinger of his tour, adding that he’s on the road this year for about 330 days.

“It’s mainly to meet and greet with the members there and, also, I try to find out what we can do to better serve our veterans.”

Dellinger said he also thanked members for their work in the communities, citing sponsorship of children and youth programs and the National Historical Rhetorical Contest as examples of what they’re involved in.

“Once our members take the uniform off, they don’t stop serving America,” he said.

Thursday’s discussion during his North Suffolk visit included “sequestration … and the downsizing” of the military, “especially how it’s going to affect the immediate area, with the Navy,” he said.

The issue not only impacted active military members, Dellinger said, but also civilians working either for the military or its contractors — including many veterans.

“These are great concerns for us,” Dellinger said. “Especially health care; Hampton VA (Veterans Affairs) does a very good job, but we have to make sure we get the best deal possible for our servicemen and women, especially those returning from wars now.”

The room was packed for his visit, Dellinger said, adding that he had made visiting the relatively new post a special priority.

“They have established themselves in the community and are doing such a great job,” he said. “I just want to continue to see them grow.”