The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans. We are a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization with great political influence perpetuated by its grass-roots involvement in the legislation process from local districts to Capitol Hill. Legionnaires’ sense of obligation to community, state and nation drives an honest advocacy for veterans in Washington.
Our Vision: The American Legion strengthens America by improving the lives of our veterans, the military and their families.
Our Mission Statement: The American Legion strengthens our communities, states and nation with programs and services for our veterans, the military and their families.
Our Motto: Veterans Strengthening America.
Our Value Principles:
A VETERAN IS A VETERAN
The American Legion embraces all current and former members of the military and endeavors to help them transition into their communities.
SELFLESS SERVICE
The American Legion celebrates all who contribute to something larger than themselves and inspires others to serve and strengthen America.
AMERICAN VALUES AND PATRIOTISM
The American Legion advocates for upholding and defending the United States Constitution, equal justice and opportunity for everyone and discrimination against no one, youth education, responsible citizenship and honoring military service by observing and participating in patriotic and memorial events.
FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The American Legion meets the unique needs of local communities.
ADVANCING THE VISION
The American Legion educates, mentors and leads new generations of Americans.
HONORING THOSE WHO CAME BEFORE US
The American Legion pays perpetual respect for all past military sacrifices to ensure they are never forgotten by new generations.