The American Legion was founded on four pillars that encompass a variety of programs to benefit our veterans, service members, their families, the youth of America and ordinary citizens.
The American Legion is the nation’s oldest, largest and most active veterans organization. The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic organization. Focusing on service to veterans, service members and communities, the Legion evolved from a group of war-weary veterans of World War I into one of the most influential nonprofit groups in the United States. Over the years, the Legion has influenced considerable social change in America, achieved hundreds of benefits for veterans and produced many important programs for children and youth. The G.I. Bill was drafted and lobbied by the American Legion until it was signed into law by President Roosevelt in June of 1944.
In the past year, the American Legion has donated $10.2 million and 2.4 volunteer hours to veterans, service members, communities and youth. Programs provide support for troops, assistance for homeless vets, education, scholarships, disaster relief, suicide prevention and much more. On July 30, 2019, President Trump signed into law the LEGION Act, which expands eligibility in the American Legion to include veterans who served in U.S. military conflicts previously unrecognized by Congress as war errors.
For the past 100 years, this organization has served its country patriotically. The American Legion’s reach extends far beyond the veteran community, making America a better place for all.
The Mission
These programs make a difference in hundreds of thousands of lives each year. The Department of Florida represents more than 2 million members and currently participates in 28 programs.
What Would You Do with $5,000 and a Day of Service?
The American Legion, Department of Florida would continue to deliver on its mission founded on the four pillars.