On September 16, 1919, the American Legion, a prominent organization of U.S. war veterans, received its federal charter from Congress. This event marked a significant milestone in the Legion’s enduring mission to support wounded warriors and military families, as well as its commitment to community service and advocacy for vital national legislation. According to the official website of The American Legion, the organization continues to offer invaluable assistance, providing free professional help to veterans in filing and pursuing benefits claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring that those who served the nation receive the support they deserve.
The roots of The American Legion trace back to March 15–17, 1919, when it was founded in Paris by delegates representing combat and service units of the American Expeditionary Force. This initiation was significant as it aimed to provide a structured means of assisting veterans returning home from the battles of World War I. Over the years, the organization has expanded its reach and influence, evidenced by its national charter, which has adapted to include veterans from various conflicts such as World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, as well as the Lebanon, Grenada, and Panama hostilities, culminating with the veterans of Operation Desert Shield/Storm.
A notable characteristic of The American Legion is its nonpolitical and nonsectarian nature. Membership is contingent upon honorable service and a formal discharge from the military, ensuring that all members share a common commitment to the values of service and sacrifice. With its national headquarters situated in Indianapolis, Indiana, the organization boasts over two million members and 14,000 posts spread across the United States, making it the largest Veterans Service Organization in the country.
The American Legion’s core mission includes a dedicated focus on caring for disabled and sick veterans. Drawing on its foundational principles, the organization has been pivotal in establishing hospitals and other critical services to meet the changing needs of veterans since World War I. The Legion’s influence extended further when it successfully sponsored the creation of the U.S. Veterans Administration in 1930, a watershed moment that underscored the organization’s commitment to ensuring proper care for its members.
Throughout its history, The American Legion has played a significant role in advocating for veterans’ rights and benefits. For instance, in 1942, it was instrumental in drafting the Federal Flag Code, which outlines proper etiquette for handling and displaying the U.S. flag. This code not only emphasizes respect for the flag but also reflects the Legion’s overarching mission of honoring military service. Additionally, the organization was crucial in the enactment of the GI Bill of Rights in 1944, which provided educational and housing benefits to World War II veterans, subsequently extending these advantages to veterans of the Korean War. By offering support for vocational training and home loans, these initiatives benefitted millions of veterans throughout the years.
Today, The American Legion oversees more than 12,000 posts in communities across the U.S., including locations in the District of Columbia and overseas in countries like France, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines. In 1989, under the Legion’s advocacy, the Veterans Administration was elevated to Cabinet-level status, becoming the Department of Veterans Affairs, thereby enhancing its ability to represent veterans within the federal government.
The organization also extends its outreach to youth, sponsoring thousands of Boy Scout troops and junior baseball teams. Since its inception, American Legion posts have supported over 2,500 scouting units, and they annually award a $10,000 scholarship to the Eagle Scout of the Year. Moreover, Legion Baseball, established in 1925, now registers more than 5,400 teams across all 50 states, Canada, and Puerto Rico, showcasing the Legion’s commitment to fostering leadership and teamwork among young people.
Among the notable alumni of these youth programs are influential figures such as former President Bill Clinton, news commentator Tom Brokaw, professional basketball player Michael Jordan, and astronaut Neil Armstrong. These connections underscore the Legion’s significant role in shaping the future leaders of America while simultaneously addressing the needs of veterans and their families. Through its extensive programs and initiatives, The American Legion remains deeply committed to enriching the lives of veterans, promoting community involvement, and advocating for legislative measures that support service members and their families.