American Legion Auxiliary

Overview

The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) is a patriotic service organization dedicated to supporting The American Legion and honoring the sacrifices of veterans, military personnel, and their families. Founded in 1919, it is one of the largest and most influential women's organizations of its kind, operating worldwide.

History

The ALA was established during the first National Convention of The American Legion in 1919. Initially, it was known as the Women's Auxiliary to The American Legion, with 1,342 local units formed by 1920. The name was officially changed to American Legion Auxiliary at the organization's first national convention in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1921[1][2][3].

The Auxiliary's growth was rapid; by the beginning of World War II, it had approximately 500,000 members. Following the Second World War, membership rose significantly, reaching a peak of 1,001,545 in 1955. Today, the organization has around 800,000 members and operates in over 9,500 communities across the United States and abroad[2][3][4].

Mission and Vision

In the spirit of "Service, Not Self," the ALA's mission is to support The American Legion by enhancing the lives of veterans, military personnel, and their families both domestically and internationally. The organization advocates for veterans' rights, educates citizens, mentors youth, and promotes patriotism, good citizenship, peace, and security[1][3].

The vision of the ALA is to become the premier service organization in every community, fostering a positive future through fellowship, patriotism, peace, and security[3].

Eligibility and Membership

Membership in the American Legion Auxiliary is open to spouses, mothers, daughters, granddaughters, and other female relatives of American war veterans. In 2019, eligibility was expanded to include male spouses of veterans through constitutional changes[4].

Programs

The ALA engages in various programs focused on:

• Americanism: Promoting patriotism and civic education.
• Children and Youth: Supporting education and development of young people.
• Community Service: Providing aid to local communities and veterans.
• Education: Enhancing educational opportunities for military children.
• ALA Girls Nation: A leadership development program for young women.
• Junior Activities: Encouraging youth participation in community and patriotic events.
• Legislative: Advocating for laws benefiting veterans.
• National Security: Supporting national defense efforts.
• Poppy Program: Raising awareness for veterans through poppy sales.
• Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation: Assisting veterans with healthcare and other services[4].

Notable Achievements

The ALA is renowned for its numerous charitable endeavors, including distributing poppies to honor deceased veterans, awarding scholarships to military families, and providing extensive community service[1][3].

Structure

The organization's structure parallels that of The American Legion, with local, state, and national units. National headquarters are located in Indianapolis, Indiana[4].