The American Legion is founded.

The American Legion, commonly referred to simply as the Legion, stands as a preeminent nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the interests and welfare of United States war veterans. Its national headquarters are strategically located in Indianapolis, Indiana, serving as the administrative hub for its expansive network.

The organization’s intricate structure is built upon a hierarchical framework, beginning with various departments established at the state level, across U.S. territories, and in numerous overseas locations. These departments, in turn, comprise thousands of local posts, which serve as crucial community centers for veterans, offering camaraderie, support, and a local point of contact for the Legion’s programs and services.

The genesis of The American Legion dates back to March 15, 1919, a pivotal moment in the aftermath of World War I, when approximately one thousand officers and enlisted men of the American Expeditionary Forces (A.E.F.) converged in Paris, France. Their collective intent was to create an organization that would continue to serve the nation and their fellow veterans upon their return home, addressing their needs and preserving their wartime experiences. This foundational meeting swiftly led to its formal chartering by the United States Congress on September 16, 1919, officially establishing its enduring national presence and mission.

Landmark Achievements and Enduring Advocacy

Perhaps The American Legion’s most profound and historically significant legislative achievement was its instrumental and leading role in the drafting and successful passage of the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, universally acclaimed as the "G.I. Bill." This transformative legislation provided unprecedented benefits to millions of returning World War II veterans, including vital funding for college or vocational education, low-interest home loans, business loans, and unemployment compensation. The G.I. Bill fundamentally reshaped American society and the economy, facilitating upward mobility for veterans, expanding the middle class, and contributing significantly to the post-war economic boom.

Continuing Support for Veterans and Service Members

Beyond its monumental legislative victories, The American Legion maintains a robust commitment to direct service. Members actively contribute their time and resources by providing invaluable assistance at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals and clinics across the nation. This direct involvement encompasses a wide range of compassionate activities, from offering companionship and comfort to organizing therapeutic and recreational programs, and helping veterans navigate the complexities of healthcare access, benefits claims, and transitions back into civilian life.

The Legion is also a highly active and influential participant in U.S. issue-oriented politics. Its primary political activity revolves around comprehensive lobbying efforts on behalf of the collective interests of veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. This advocacy extends to crucial areas such as ensuring robust support for veterans' pensions, advocating for the efficient and well-funded operation of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), promoting veteran employment initiatives, addressing homelessness among veterans, and safeguarding all earned benefits. The organization serves as a vigilant watchdog, ensuring that commitments made to those who served are honored and sustained.

Upholding Core Values and Community Engagement

Historically, The American Legion has been a steadfast proponent of fundamental civic principles, which form the bedrock of its organizational ethos and community programs. These include:

Through its multifaceted approach, combining direct service, powerful advocacy, and the promotion of core civic values, The American Legion continues to uphold its founding principles, honoring the service and sacrifice of America's veterans while actively contributing to the nation's well-being and future.

Frequently Asked Questions about The American Legion

What is The American Legion's primary mission?
The American Legion is a nonprofit organization primarily dedicated to the welfare of U.S. military veterans and their families. Its mission encompasses advocating for veterans' benefits, promoting national security, fostering Americanism, and supporting youth programs and community engagement.
Where are The American Legion's headquarters located?
The national headquarters of The American Legion are located in Indianapolis, Indiana.
When and where was The American Legion founded?
The American Legion was founded on March 15, 1919, in Paris, France, by members of the American Expeditionary Forces following World War I. It was officially chartered by the United States Congress on September 16, 1919.
What was The American Legion's role in the "G.I. Bill"?
The American Legion played an absolutely pivotal and leading role in conceiving, drafting, and successfully lobbying for the passage of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, widely known as the "G.I. Bill," which revolutionized benefits for returning World War II veterans including education, home loans, and unemployment assistance.