New exhibits installed at National Headquarters

2026 marks centennials of School Award program, Pershing/Foch honors.

Ahead of the Spring Meetings next week, museum staff at American Legion National Headquarters have completed the installation of two new exhibits on the fourth floor that celebrate the centennial of two important parts of the organization’s history. Both exhibits will remain until spring 2027.

The library exhibit features the history of the American Legion School Award. The award was approved at the 1926 national convention and awarded by posts nationwide beginning in 1927. The exhibit features examples of each version of the award medal as well as pins, certificates and plaques created for the award program.

The lobby exhibit celebrates the 100th anniversary of Commander of the American Expeditionary Forces Gen. John J. Pershing and Supreme Allied Commander on the Western Front French Marshal Ferdinand Foch being named honorary national commanders by The American Legion. This title was conferred on both World War I military leaders during the 1926 national convention. Throughout his life, Pershing remained an avid supporter of the Legion, and without his approval in March 1919 the Paris Caucus could not have taken place. Both Pershing and Foch supported the Legion by attending national conventions and other events throughout their lives.