American Legion

The American Legion is a prominent U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to serving veterans, service members, and communities. Established on March 15–17, 1919, in Paris, France, by members of the American Expeditionary Forces, it was subsequently chartered by the U.S. Congress on September 16, 1919[1][3][4].

Mission and Activities

The American Legion focuses on providing mutual support and advocating for veterans' rights. Its mission encompasses upholding the U.S. Constitution, maintaining law and order, fostering Americanism, preserving wartime memories, and promoting individual responsibility to the community[5]. The organization is nonpartisan and nonsectarian, requiring only honorable service and discharge for membership[3].

Achievements

Throughout its history, the American Legion has been instrumental in several significant achievements:

• Veterans Administration: It played a key role in the creation of the U.S. Veterans Administration, now known as the Department of Veterans Affairs[1][3].
• GI Bill: The Legion was instrumental in drafting and passing the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, commonly known as the G.I. Bill, providing education and home loan benefits to millions of veterans[3][4].
• Youth Programs: The organization sponsors several youth programs, including the American Legion Boys State and Boys Nation, aimed at promoting civic education and democratic values among young people[1][3].
• Community Engagement: It supports thousands of Boy Scout troops and junior baseball teams, contributing to community development[1][3].
• Flag Advocacy: The Legion has been a strong advocate for flag etiquette and the protection of the U.S. flag[1][2].

Structure

The American Legion is structured into local posts, which are further organized into state, U.S. territory, and overseas departments. It operates internationally, with posts in countries such as France, Mexico, and the Philippines[1]. The national headquarters are located in Indianapolis, Indiana[4].

Membership and Influence

As of recent figures, the American Legion boasts a membership of over 1.8 million veterans distributed across 14,000 posts worldwide[4]. It is one of the largest and most influential veterans organizations in the United States, engaging in extensive lobbying activities on behalf of veterans and service members at both local and national levels[3][5].