THE AMERICAN LEGION

The American Legion is built on a promise from men and women who swore with their lives to defend and protect the United States through military service.

The promise begins at enlistment, grows through training and discipline in the U.S. Armed Forces and continues after discharge, as veterans in service to community, state and nation.

In times of crisis, The American Legion steps into the turmoil and fights to provide needed assistance for others. 

Legionnaires constantly remind communities that freedom and prosperity come with a price, a price often paid in blood. They know the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. They raise the money, put in the hours and bring into existence monuments and memorials to “preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in all wars.”

The American Legion salutes the flag and asks all others to show respect for the unity, freedom and hope it represents.

Among American Legion members, there is no rank or prejudice, only purpose. A veteran is a veteran. And the purpose of veterans in The American Legion is to strengthen the United States of America through programs, services, compassion and actions that have proven vital, timeless and life-changing for over a century.

The American Legion's mission statement, as adopted by the National Executive Committee in October 2020, is:

To enhance the well-being of America's veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.

The American Legion's vision statement is "The American Legion: Veterans Strengthening America.” 

THE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY (ALA)

The American Legion Auxiliary is a nonpartisan organization of volunteers that supports veterans, military, and their families. Founded in 1919.

The American Legion Auxiliary is made up of the male and female spouses, grandmothers, mothers, sisters, and direct and adopted female descendants of members of The American Legion. Through its nearly 10,500 units located in every state and some foreign countries, the Auxiliary embodies the spirit of America that has prevailed through war and peace. Along with The American Legion, it solidly stands behind America and its ideals.

The ALA's mission is to honor those who serve and improve their lives, both at home and abroad. ALA members work to achieve this mission through a variety of activities, including:

• Advocacy - LA members work to keep veterans' issues in front of legislators in local Congressional Districts and in Washington, D.C..Education
• The ALA awards scholarships and promotes quality education and literacy. They also provide educational and leadership opportunities that encourage good citizenship and patriotism.Community service
• ALA members host events for deployed military units, promote patriotic youth programs, and look for ways to ease the burden on military families.Volunteer opportunities
• The ALA provides meaningful volunteer opportunities within communities to increase their capacity to deliver their mission. 

THE SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

The Sons of The American Legion was created in 1932 as an organization within The American Legion.

S.A.L. members include males of all ages whose parents or grandparents served in the U.S. military and were eligible for American Legion membership.

At all levels, Sons support The American Legion in promoting a wide variety of programs. Sons assist their posts in other activities such as Veterans programs, Veterans Administration home and hospital volunteerism, Children Youth projects and fundraising.