2019 overseas graves fund closes Dec. 31

Update: If you have not already requested funds from the 2019 Overseas Graves Decoration Trust Fund, you need to act now. Your request must be emailed to the American Legion national adjutant no later than the close of business on Dec. 31. On Jan. 1, the funds left over will be given to the American Battle Monuments Commission. 

So if you want to honor veterans in your area, please act now.

Rather than barbecues, races or even parades, the real idea of Memorial Day is to remember those who served their country in uniform and are no longer living. The American Legion has been in the forefront of such efforts throughout its existence – no matter how far-flung the fallen comrade.

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.

Trustees use the income of the trust fund to honor, preserve and decorate the graves of those who served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America in World War I, World War II, the Korean conflict and the period of the Vietnam hostilities who lie overseas. The fund also financially aids departments and posts outside the continental United States of America to honor and decorate the individual graves of veterans laid to rest outside of American Battle Monument Commission-controlled facilities.

Fund requests will be sent to the American Legion national adjutant. The following information is required for each request:

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 the grave.

4. A mailing address for Emblem Sales to mail a U.S. flag for the grave.

5. A mailing address for the American Legion national treasurer to mail the department or post the requested funds.

6. After the graveside ceremony in May, a picture with caption must be forwarded to the FODPAL secretary.

Funds are dispensed on a first-come, first-served basis until the income is depleted.