2023 Overseas Graves Decoration Trust open to applications; deadline Dec. 31

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. Nov. 1 was the opening date to request funds for the next year. Requests should be sent to the American Legion national treasurer at overseasgravestrust@legion.org and CC’d to dhaggan@sbcglobal.net, and must include the following information: 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’ use so they can mail each department or post a flag 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. Requests will be made on the Overseas Graves Trust Grant Application form. 7. Dec. 31 is the request cutoff unless there are funds remaining, then submissions received after the deadline may be considered. 8. Grants are awarded based on merit and availability of funds. 9. 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. 10. The final approval authority will be the trust fund members.

Contact dhaggan@sbcglobal.net if you need an application form, and for more information about after-action reports.