The American military cemetery in Normandy.

Overseas Graves Decoration Trust grant applications open for 2022

The American Legion Overseas Graves Decoration Trust Fund was established in the 1920s, and provides all U.S. flags – from Emblem Sales, made in the USA – flown at cemeteries and burial sites in foreign countries where American troops are buried or otherwise memorialized. The first fundraising for the decoration of overseas graves took place in 1921-1922, and its current organizational plan has been in force since 1935.

The fund financially aids departments and posts outside the continental United States to honor and decorate individual graves of veterans laid to rest outside American Battle Monument Commission-controlled facilities. This is done through grants, and the application process for 2022 opened on Nov. Fund requests must be sent to the American Legion national treasurer at OverseasGravesTrust@legion.org, and CC’d to dhaggan@sbcglobal.net. A required application form will be provided.

The following information is required for each request for funds:
1. The name of the veteran.
2. The cemetery name and location (city and country) where the veteran is at rest.
3. A quote in writing (not to exceed $50) from a local florist, for flowers to decorate each veteran’s grave.
4. A mailing address for Emblem Sales to mail each “USA-made American flags” for each grave to be decorated.
5. A mailing address for the national treasurer to mail each department or post the requested funds for each grave to be decorated.
6. Completion of the Overseas Graves Trust Grant Application form.

Dec. 31 is the request cut-off unless there are funds remaining, then submissions received after the deadline may be considered. Grants will be awarded based on merit and availability of funds. Those who receive grants must provide a timely written report. If you do not provide such a report, you are not eligible for additional funds in succeeding years. After-action reports will be forwarded to the national adjutant in a timely manner after Memorial Day ceremonies, for filing and further distribution.