American Legion
The American Legion, commonly known as the Legion, is a patriotic organization of U.S. war veterans headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. It comprises state, U.S. territory, and overseas departments, in turn, made up of local posts. It was established in March 1919 at Paris, France, by officers and men of the American Expeditionary Forces (A.E.F.). In September 1919, it was chartered by the U.S. Congress.
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American Legion National Headquarters Indianapolis, Indiana, United States | |
| Established | March 15, 1919 |
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| Founded at | Paris, France |
| Type | 501(c)(19), war veterans' organization |
Tax ID no. | 35-0144250 |
| Headquarters | 700 North Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Coordinates | 39.7770°N 86.1562°W |
Area served | Worldwide |
Membership (2018) | ~1,800,000 |
National Commander | Rev. Daniel Seehafer (WI) Since August 2023 |
| Daniel Wheeler (VA) Since October 2008 | |
National Executive Committee | 61 voting members
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| Publication | The American Legion |
| Subsidiaries | Sons of The American Legion |
| Secessions | Forty and Eight |
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| Website | legion |
The Legion played the leading role in drafting and passing the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, commonly known as the "G.I. Bill". In addition to organizing commemorative events, members assist at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals and clinics. It is active in issue-oriented U.S. politics. Its primary political activity is lobbying on behalf of interests of veterans and service members, including support for benefits such as pensions and the Veterans Health Administration. It has also historically promoted Americanism, individual obligation to the community, state, and nation; peace and goodwill.