American Legion

The American Legion is a U.S. nonprofit veterans organization, officially chartered by Congress in 1919. However, the EIN provided (611674668) is not associated with the American Legion; it may belong to a different entity. The American Legion's correct EIN is 35-0144250.

History

The American Legion was founded on March 15-17, 1919, by members of the American Expeditionary Forces in Paris, France. It emerged as part of the "Preparedness Movement," with many founders having experience as officers in World War I. They recognized the nation's shortcomings in defense, citizenship, and education, as well as its ineptness in handling veterans' issues post-war[1][2].

The organization's first major step was the St. Louis Caucus, where "The American Legion" was officially named and a draft preamble and constitution were approved[3]. On September 16, 1919, Congressional Charter No. 416 was granted to the Legion, with amendments over time that expanded membership eligibility to include veterans from World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, and other conflicts[2][3].

Mission and Activities

The American Legion is nonpolitical and nonsectarian, emphasizing service to veterans, servicemembers, and communities. Its main objectives include:

• Veteran Support: The Legion has been instrumental in establishing the U.S. Veterans Administration and championing benefits for disabled veterans and their families. It sponsors the GI Bill of Rights and other legislation to support veterans' education and housing[2][3].
• Youth Programs: The Legion is well-known for its American Legion Boys State and American Legion Boys Nation programs, which educate young people about democratic government. It also supports numerous Boy Scout troops and youth baseball teams, including the American Legion Baseball program, which has contributed to the development of many professional baseball players[2][3].
• Advocacy: The organization is active in lobbying for veterans' rights, including health care, education benefits, and compensation for service-related conditions like PTSD and Agent Orange exposure[1][4].
• Community Engagement: The Legion organizes flag etiquette seminars and sponsors community events to promote Americanism and patriotism[3].

Structure

Today, the American Legion comprises over 2 million members in more than 14,000 local posts across the U.S. and abroad, organized into 55 departments[3]. The organization is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, and operates as a 501(c)(19) war veterans' organization[4].

Affiliations

The American Legion Family includes the American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of The American Legion, and American Legion Riders, each contributing to different aspects of community service and advocacy[5]. The Sons of The American Legion, established in 1932, honors the service of Legionnaires by including their sons and grandsons in its membership[5]. The American Legion Riders are known for their charitable activities, particularly in supporting veterans and their families[5].