About The American Legion
Still Serving
Since 1919, The American Legion has operated with a clear and enduring purpose: to serve those who have served, strengthen the nation, and uphold the values that define American democracy. That purpose is built on four foundational pillars: Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth. These pillars guide the organization’s advocacy, outreach, and service across thousands of local posts and millions of members nationwide.
Our Mission, Vision, & Values
To enhance the well-being of America's veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness. The American Legion's vision statement is "The American Legion: Veterans Strengthening America." The American Legion's value principles are as follows:
A VETERAN IS A VETERAN - which means The American Legion embraces all current and former members of the military and endeavors to help them transition into their communities.
SELFLESS SERVICE - which means The American Legion celebrates all who contribute to something larger than themselves and inspires others to serve and strengthen America.
AMERICAN VALUES AND PATRIOTISM - which means 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 memorial events.
FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT - which means The American Legion meets the unique needs of local communities.
ADVANCING THE VISION - which means The American Legion educates, mentors and leads new generations of Americans.
HONOR THOSE WHO CAME BEFORE US - which means The American Legion pays perpetual respect for all past military sacrifices to ensure they are never forgotten by new generations.
The American Legion's motto is "Veterans Strengthening America."
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Organization
The American Legion is the largest U.S. veterans organization with more than 1.2 million members who strengthen the nation through programs, services and advocacy for those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, youth and communities. -
Leadership
The National Leadership of The American Legion is dedicated to guiding the organization in its mission to serve veterans and their families. -
Reports
Annual Reports, Membership Impact Reports, and the Legislative Agenda, highlighting our initiatives and achievements. -
Brand & Media Inquiries
Learn about the Legion's brand, find our branding guidelines, and contact Legion media staff. -
American Legion Family
The American Legion Family unites to support veterans, their families, and communities.
Donate to The American Legion
I was about to give up... I wouldn’t have known where to go.
Korean War Army veteran Willie Alvin Cousin, who received long-overdue and wrongly denied VA disability benefits after his case was reopened and won by American Legion Department Service Officer K. Robert Lewis
These were important things. It helped them not get behind in their rent... It helped them put food in the refrigerator.
Coast Guard Vice Commandant Adm. Charlie Ray, after American Legion Temporary Financial Assistance helped more than 3,120 children whose active-duty families were affected by the federal government shutdown.