The American Legion Department of Indiana, Post 18 (EIN: 350816580) is a local chapter of the larger American Legion organization, a prominent U.S. war veterans' service organization. Established with a national charter on December 18, 1920, Post 18 is formally known as the John Olson Post 18 and is headquartered in Lockport, Illinois[2].

History

John Olson Post 18 was awarded a permanent national charter approximately one and a half years after its temporary charter was granted. Leonard F. Roblee was elected as the first Commander, and T.P. Swanson as the first Adjutant of the post. The post was named in honor of John Olson (originally Johan Olofsson), a Swedish-born veteran who exemplified the service and commitment foundational to the American Legion's mission[2].

The broader American Legion organization was chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization dedicated to serving veterans, servicemembers, and communities across the United States. The Legion evolved from the American Expeditionary Forces of World War I into one of the most influential veterans' organizations nationwide. It has organized advocacy efforts, influenced veterans’ benefits such as the G.I. Bill, and developed programs focusing on veteran affairs, national security, Americanism, and children and youth[1][3][4].

Mission and Activities

Post 18, like other American Legion posts, dedicates its activities to the four pillars established by the national organization:

• Veteran Affairs & Rehabilitation
• National Security
• Americanism
• Children & Youth

These pillars guide the post’s service to veterans, their families, youth organizations, and the local community. Since its inception, the post has worked to preserve the memories and incidents of World War I veterans and continues to support community and veteran-related causes[2].

Organizational Structure

As a component of the American Legion Department of Indiana, Post 18 operates within the state-level department that coordinates local posts’ activities and represents Indiana veterans on a larger scale. The American Legion itself is organized into 55 departments, including one for each U.S. state, the District of Columbia, and various territories and overseas locations[3][4].

Legacy

John Olson Post 18 maintains a longstanding tradition of honoring veterans and serving community needs that has persisted for over a century. It reflects the American Legion’s broader commitment to advocacy, support, and patriotic service begun shortly after World War I and continuing today[2][4].

This article reflects information on the American Legion Department of Indiana Post 18 as part of the wider American Legion organization and its historical and ongoing community and veterans service.