2023 Post Officers Guide

2023 Officer’s Guide
and Manual of Ceremonies
le gio n .org
The following chart explains the relationship a local post has with other posts, the district or county, the
department and National Headquarters. For the sake of brevity, post subcommittees are not included. A list
of “standard” post committees and other non-traditional committees (depending on a post’s programs and
activities) begins on page 18.
The American Legion

Levels of Communication
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS
55 departments
DISTRICT AND/OR COUNTY

Approximately 800 districts
POST COMMANDER
Approximately 12,000 posts
POST ADJUTANT
OTHER ELECTED OFFICERS
POST EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
COMMISSIONS/COMMITTEES
1. Americanism
2. Children and Youth
3. Economic
4. Finance
5. House
6. Internal Affairs
7. Legislative
8. Membership & Post Activities
9. Media & Communications
10. Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation
11. National Security
12. Graves Registration
13. Sons of The American Legion
14. Legion Riders
LEGEND
coordination & information
directive
2023 Officer’s Guide
and Manual of Ceremonies
Published by
The American Legion National Headquarters

Internal Affairs & Membership Division
P.O. Box 1055

Indianapolis, IN 46206
legion.org
60th Edition
Revised January 2023
Disclaimer of liability
The American Legion Officer’s Guide and Manual of Ceremonies (“guide”) provides the reader with very general information
about planning and conducting various programs. This guide is only intended to help assist volunteers and staff. With respect
to information contained in this guide, neither The American Legion nor any of its officers, directors or employees make any
warranty, express or implied, nor assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of
any information, apparatus, product or process implemented at the post or department level. This guide only constitutes
general advice and recommendations for operations based on best practices. Information within the guide stating “shall or
must” is based on federal law or federal/IRS regulations and mandates. All other items of information in this guide are general
suggestions except for the National Constitution and By-Laws. This guide does not constitute any type of legal advice. If
readers have any concerns about anything in this guide, they are strongly advised to contact their respective department and
an attorney licensed in their state.
Please see 36 U.S.C. Section 21704: The Corporation (The American Legion) may provide guidance and leadership to
organizations (departments) and local chapters (posts) ... but may not control or otherwise influence the specific
activities and conduct of such organizations (departments) and local chapters (posts).
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ii THE AMERICAN LEGION | OFFICER’S GUIDE | 2023
FOREWORD
The Officer’s Guide is the principal handbook issued by National Headquarters to help American Legion
officers fulfill their roles. It combines a guide to post offices, operations and procedures; the Manual of
Ceremonies, which describes ceremonies prescribed by the National Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials
Subcommittee; and an appendix including eligibility requirements, parliamentary procedures, a suggested
post constitution and by-laws, and more.
Publications on all major American Legion programs are available from the department and National
Headquarters. See the complete list at legion.org/publications. Many can be downloaded for free; others
are available at low cost at emblem.legion.org.
If questions arise on American Legion policies or procedures, contact the district officers or department
headquarters.
We hope this handbook will help in the post’s mission, and we encourage post officers to become familiar
with its contents.
The responsibility given to the individual post is the source of our strength and ability to grow. The post is
to a large degree autonomous, restricted only by the broad general guidelines contained in the national or
department constitution and by-laws.
The question has been asked, “Who determines who is a member of a particular post?” In 1923, an American
Legion Weekly article stated, “At the same time that Article IV, Section 1 of the National Constitution By-
Laws were adopted, we established another principle having an important bearing on it. Another section
specifies that each post shall be the judge of its own membership, subject to the restrictions of the Legion’s
Constitution and By-Laws. This means that a post shall also determine whom it will accept for membership
.... The right of each post to determine its own membership is without restriction.”
Regarding Article IV, Section 1, a 1937 ruling by National Judge Advocate Ralph B. Gregg stated, “In other
words, a member may be eligible to join The American Legion, but this does not mean that he (or she)
must be accepted for membership in a particular post. Eligibility is not synonymous with acceptability. If a
member is eligible to join The American Legion, it is still the prerogative of the post to determine whether
they will accept such a member in their post.”
In summary, the post sits as judge of its members in disciplinary proceedings, and has the prerogative to
accept, or not, whomever is eligible, provided that the post does not refuse membership to an eligible
member based upon a demographic characteristic protected by law (race, gender, ethnicity, age, sexual
orientation, etc.).
The post’s challenge is to focus on service to veterans, their families and the community. To meet this
challenge, the post must develop goals and objectives. The Preamble to the Constitution of The American
Legion is an ideal, a set of missions and battles that can never be decisively won or lost – only fought for.
It serves as a vision for the post leadership to craft a mission statement from which to establish short-
term and long-term goals. In the appendix is a list of five resolutions pertaining to The American Legion’s
blueprint for meeting challenges it faces in the 21st century. They can provide guidance and direction as
you establish the post’s programs and overall vision.
By accepting elected office, you made the decision to serve. Serve well, for our veterans are counting on
you, not just our members.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Four Pillars of The American Legion ................................................................................................................................................................ 2
The American Legion Emblem ................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Usage of The American Legion Cap, Emblem, Facilities and Political Donations .................................................................................... 4
The Veteran’s Creed ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Section 1 – Post Operations
The Post ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Post Officers ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Standing Committees ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 18
Other Committees ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 19
Uniformed Groups ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 20
Analysis of Post Operations ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Steps to a Better Post ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Post Charters ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23
New Posts ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
Direct Renewal Notices ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Paid-Up-For-Life (PUFL) Membership ................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Consolidated Post Reports (CPR) ............................................................................................................................................................................. 27
MyLegion.org ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 28
The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation (CWF) .................................................................................................................................. 31
Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) ................................................................................................................................................................... 32
National Emergency Fund (NEF) ............................................................................................................................................................................. 32
Sons of The American Legion (SAL) ........................................................................................................................................................................ 33
American Legion Auxiliary ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Section 2 – Manual of Ceremonies
Plan of Post Meeting Room ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
Plan of Post Meeting Room for Special Ceremonies ........................................................................................................................................ 37
Wearing the American Legion Cap, Uniform and Regalia .............................................................................................................................. 38
Official Badges ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Color Guard Procedure ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Regular Meeting ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 41
POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony........................................................................................................................................................................... 42
POW/MIA Remembrance Service ............................................................................................................................................................................ 43
Initiation of New Members ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 45
Installation of Post Officers ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 50
Dedications ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 55
Military Funeral Honors for Veterans ..................................................................................................................................................................... 57
Post Everlasting ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 59
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Traditional Method of Folding the U.S. Flag ........................................................................................................................................................ 67
Draping the American Legion Charter Ceremony ............................................................................................................................................ 68
Blue Star Service Banner ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 68
Gold Star Banner Ceremony ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 69
Patriotic Holidays .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 70
Flag Ceremonies ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 76
Prayers for Special Occasions .................................................................................................................................................................................... 80
Appendix
Meaning of the Preamble to The American Legion Constitution ................................................................................................................ 81
The American Legion’s Blueprint for the 21st Century .................................................................................................................................... 83
Suggested Form for Post Constitution .................................................................................................................................................................. 85
Suggested Form for Post By-Laws ........................................................................................................................................................................... 87
Delinquency, Resignation and Transfer ................................................................................................................................................................ 91
Eligibility ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 91
LEGION Act ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 99
Parliamentary Procedure ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 99
Uniform Code of Procedure for the Revocation, Cancellation or Suspension of Post Charters .................................................... 106
Practice and Procedure in Expulsion or Suspension of a Member of The American Legion .......................................................... 110
Emblem Sales .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 113
Use of The American Legion Emblem ................................................................................................................................................................. 114
Military Equipment .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 116
Blank Ammunition ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 118
The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Program ................................................................................................. 121
How to Write a Resolution ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 121
Veteran of the Month ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 124
Post and Department Histories ............................................................................................................................................................................. 125
The American Legion’s Centennial Website ..................................................................................................................................................... 129
U.S. Flag Code .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 130
National Anthem ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 133
Publications and Other Materials ......................................................................................................................................................................... 133
Service animals and posts ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 134
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The Four Pillars of The American Legion
The American Legion’s four pillars – Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security,
Americanism, and Children and Youth – are as relevant today as when our organization was founded in
1919.
All American Legion officers should be familiar with the programs offered under each pillar, along with how
to conduct and publicize them, recruit participants and inspire community involvement.
In addition, all officers should know the Legion’s legislative positions and be fully engaged in discussing
with local, state and national elected officials how to support and achieve our legislative goals.
As an officer, strive to become a source of Legion history and knowledge. Be eager and prepared to answer
all questions from a potential new member, and to speak with authority about The American Legion to
other community groups.
Welcome new members into the Legion by assigning them a mentor who is familiar with our traditions,
customs, policies and programs.
Finally, encourage members old and new to complete the BASIC TRAINING course, which is the best and
most convenient way to gain basic knowledge of who we are and what we do. Many Legionnaires want
to become stronger leaders and only need the opportunity, making continuous training and education
programs necessary at every level – post, county, district and department.
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The American Legion emblem
Every part of the American Legion emblem has meaning. The emblem is laid upon the rays of the sun,
giver of life, warmth and courage; foe of the cold, of the darkness, of fear, of apprehension. In turn, each of
the emblem’s parts signifies a meaning, which no American Legionnaire who wears the emblem should
take lightly, and which he/she should know from the first moment it is put on. Why does the star signify
constancy of purpose? Because the stars are fixed in the heavens. As the stars do not wander, so should The
American Legion not wander from its fixed purposes. Further, the words “The American Legion” demand
that the wearer “shall ever guard the sanctity of home and country and free institutions.” There shines the
emblem of The American Legion. It is your badge of pride and distinction, honor and service.
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Usage of the American Legion cap, emblem, facilities
and political donations
According to Article II, Section 2, of the Constitution of The American Legion, “The American Legion shall
be absolutely nonpolitical and shall not be used for the dissemination of partisan principles nor for the
promotion of the candidacy of any person seeking public office or preferment.” The national charter,
approved by Congress, also stipulates The American Legion as an organization is nonpolitical*, which has
been interpreted by the national judge advocate as “nonpartisan” in modern lingo. Therefore, The American
Legion as an organization is prohibited from contributing, helping or endorsing a candidate. However,
a member – as a private citizen and not representing the organization – can employ whatever legal and
ethical means to advance a particular candidate.
The American Legion cap is considered the official American Legion uniform (see page 38). It is not
an individual American Legion member’s decision on the appropriate usage of the cap and emblem. If
attending a political event, the American Legion cap, or any clothing with the emblem visible, should
be removed so as not to imply endorsement by The American Legion. The problem is the assumption of
endorsement by those who see the emblem or name worn at an improper location, such as a partisan rally.
When using post facilities to host candidates, the post should remove the emblem and American Legion
flag to avoid any impression of endorsements. Candidates for all parties must be presented equal
opportunity at the same time to use the facilities on the same terms and conditions as other competing
candidates.
The American Legion values its independence and effectiveness on veterans’ issues. This stance is best
maintained by neutrality on individual candidates or political parties. The American Legion by legal
definition is nonpartisan and supports only issues that impact the Four Pillars.
The following is the position of the National Headquarters of The American Legion regarding financial
contributions that might be offered by candidates for political office, campaigns, political action
committees or political parties:
• The American Legion is very appreciative of donors who contribute to its programs, which enhance the
quality of life for thousands of veterans, young people and their families.
• While The American Legion is pleased to see candidates address issues of concern to America’s
veterans, it is a nonpartisan organization. The American Legion Constitution prohibits the organization
from endorsing any candidate for political office.
• If a candidate, PAC or political party were to offer a financial contribution to The American Legion or
its programs, the Legion would politely decline. While accepting the contribution may be perfectly
legal, The American Legion wants to avoid even the perception that the organization supports any
candidacy. Again, The American Legion values its independence and is beholden to no political
officeholder or candidate.
* This means “nonpartisan” in today’s society. The American Legion is allowed by Congress to lobby for veterans
benefits and a strong United States of America (NJA, October 25, 2012).

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
OF
THE AMERICAN LEGION
Indianapolis, Indiana
October 17-18, 2018
Resolution No. 10: Support of the Veteran’s Creed
Origin: Internal Affairs Commission
Submitted By: Internal Affairs Commission
WHEREAS, The American Legion has since its founding in 1919 dedicated itself to the service of veterans,
their families, active servicemembers and the local communities where we live; and
WHEREAS, One of the reasons The American Legion exists is “... To safeguard and transmit to posterity the
principles of justice, freedom and democracy ...”; and
WHEREAS, The Veteran’s Creed is very similar to the U.S. Army’s Soldiers Creed which has the intent to
underline the “altruistic ethos of veterans themselves”; and
WHEREAS, Many veterans across America, seek to continue to make a difference in their communities and
across our country; and
WHEREAS, Many veterans continue to take their oath of allegiance to their country and brothers and sisters
in arms seriously; and
WHEREAS, In the fall of 2017, veterans groups worked with Georgetown University, located in Washington,
D.C., to establish a Veteran’s Creed whose intent was to inspire veterans to continue to serve and lead in
service to their communities and country; and
WHEREAS, The American Legion can use the Veteran’s Creed as a rallying point for our brothers and sisters
in arms to understand that our mission is far from over; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting
assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on October 17-18, 2018, That The American Legion support, by
appropriate means, the Veteran’s Creed and its eight points; and, be it finally
RESOLVED, That The American Legion publish the Veteran’s Creed as follows in the Officer’s Guide and
Manual of Ceremonies:
1) I am an American Veteran
2) I proudly served my country
3) I live the values I learned in the military
4) I continue to serve my community, my country and my fellow veterans
5) I maintain my physical and mental discipline
6) I continue to lead and improve
7) I make a difference
8) I honor and remember my fallen comrades

SECTION I
Post Operations
The post
The American Legion is incorporated by an act of Congress and is organized into local posts, which, for
purposes of coordination and administration, are grouped into departments. The post is the combat unit
of The American Legion. Depending upon our posts’ ability to realize American Legion values, effectively
communicate them to others, and to carry out unselfish activities for community, state and nation, our
organization will either succeed or fail. The post is The American Legion. Our duties are beautifully spelled
out in the Preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion. Membership is by post only. Programs are
effective to the degree the post adopts and puts them into operation. Mutual helpfulness becomes a reality
through the post’s comradeship, social activities and service programs.
The individual Legionnaire’s perception of The American Legion – particularly the post officer’s perception
– largely defines the post. If The American Legion is perceived to be a bar, the post will be a bar. If post
leadership thinks the post is doing a good job but still isn’t attracting and engaging new members, the post
is not what the majority of veterans in the area want from a veterans service organization.
Posts do not have to operate alike, regardless of the tendency to think they do. Membership troubles can
arise in a community when a group with a narrow perception of The American Legion becomes dominant
and suppresses any group with a different perception. This can prevent the development of activities that
produce new leaders and new members. They also help or hinder the establishment of new posts that
attract and serve entirely new groups of veterans.
The post has a responsibility to the veterans and children of its community – and to the community itself.
What the community thinks of The American Legion is basic to what a Legion post thinks of itself. The
American Legion exists only with the approval of a large segment of our society. Each post is judged by the
community. Its success or failure depends on the community viewing it as a positive partner. A good post
will encourage active participation by its members with other civic-minded committees and organizations
within the community. It will seek to participate whether or not the activity is initiated by The American
Legion.
A good post will know the needs of the community. The simple process of planned contacts by
representative post members with city officials, educators, welfare workers, community leaders, and other
civic and fraternal groups will provide this knowledge. A Legionnaire who serves the community deserves
recognition from the post, whether the project was post-sponsored or not.
Veterans activities alone do not establish the Legion as an asset in the eyes of the community. These are,
however, of particular importance to an organization composed exclusively of veterans.
Types of posts
Each Legionnaire sees The American Legion through personal experiences or desires. The organization is
big and broad enough to accommodate everyone, but the post will reflect the composite personality of its
members. There are country club-type posts and community posts. There are posts of ethnic groups and all
women. There are business and professional posts, company posts, and posts formed by fraternal groups.
Some posts have several thousand members, while others are successful with fewer than a hundred. All are
doing the work of The American Legion.

The post officers are responsible for helping a post outline its vision for service to the community and put it
in action. The goal is for members to promote their mission in their community while having fun. Thus, post
officers must be aware of the likes and dislikes of its members, as well as the needs of the community.
Developing leaders
The American Legion requires a terrific amount of manpower. More than 12,000 new post commanders are
needed each year. This number tops 100,000 when other post officers are elected. While some members
hold the same office year after year, there is always a need for fresh insight from new volunteer leaders.
Where are they found? First, a veteran becomes a member. Then, experience and exposure through serving
on committees and participating in training, conventions and conferences prepare members for other
responsibilities. Training and mentoring, whether formal or informal, should be pursued by the individual
and by the post.
If a post is productive and the present officers have been effective, there should be competition for
elected post offices. There may be times when someone must be approached and urged to run for post
commander or other office. This is particularly true in small posts where many members have already
served. Leadership succession should be anticipated and planned. The present officers and active members
must be on the lookout for future leaders, and Legionnaires showing ability and interest should seek
opportunities to positively affect the organization.
Elections
The post constitution and by-laws determine the dates for nomination and election of officers. These
should agree with the department constitution and by-laws. For best communications between the post
and department, it is desirable for posts to conduct elections near the same date, with the results promptly
reported to the department.
Installation
The installation of a new group of officers is the first occasion of the new Legion year for an impressive
ceremony and one of the top social events on the post’s calendar. If new officers are casually installed,
their attitude toward their obligation will be casual. If the installation is accompanied by a banquet, visits
from department and district officers, and entertainment that draws a crowd, the event instills among all
attending the importance of the roles being assumed by the new officers.
Impressive installation ceremonies can provide the framework around which other activities can develop.
The Manual of Ceremonies covers the initiation of new members, dedication of halls, funeral services
and other programs that are standard throughout The American Legion. The department and National
Headquarters can provide additional tools to make these ceremonies more effective.
In many departments, regulations are in effect as to who the installing officers should be. Check with your
district commander for these details.
District/county
Departments have the authority to create intermediate bodies between the post and department to
assist as a liaison between such organizations, and for the purpose of promoting the programs of The
American Legion. The Department Executive Committee (DEC) or constitution define the powers of such
intermediate groups. In no event shall such powers invade the prerogatives vested in the post, department
or national organization.

The most common division is the department’s partition into districts. However, many departments do
provide for county organizations, inter-county councils, areas and other subdivisions below the district
level. In some departments, county organizations substitute for districts.
Depending upon the powers delegated, the district does have some supervisory powers over the posts
comprising the district, but the primary purpose is to train, promote, educate and coordinate programs so
the posts can be more effective.
The District/County Commander’s Guide is published annually to assist newly elected district and county
commanders. This guide is sent to the departments for distribution and available online at legion.org/
publications.
Department
The American Legion is organized into departments and these, in turn, into posts. There is one department
in each state and the District of Columbia, and there may be one in each territory and insular possession
of the United States (Puerto Rico). Each department may prescribe the constitution of its posts, and the
department has supervision of the posts within its boundaries and the posts assigned to it by the National
Executive Committee (NEC). There are also foreign departments in the Philippines, France and Mexico. In all,
there are 55 departments.
National Headquarters
The top legislative body of The American Legion is the convention delegates at the annual national
convention. The National Executive Committee (NEC) is vested with administrative authority between
national conventions.
Through the offices of National Headquarters in Indianapolis and Washington, D.C., the policies of The
American Legion are clarified and its activities are centered and directed. Thus, the influence of more than
12,000 posts is coordinated and directed within American Legion policy.
Post officers
Commander
The ability to lead is recognized by election to the office of post commander. Now, draw on that ability and
experience while developing new skills to help the post prosper.
The charge accepted, commander, is broad and difficult. How you respond will determine to a large degree
the standing of The American Legion among associates and within the community. The support of district
and department officers, the information in this guide, and help from post officers will together make
performing the job possible. Look to the overall operation of the post and realize you have stepped to
another level. At first it may seem the step is too high, but as time goes by, following the suggestions and
recommendations in this guide, the year as commander will be most rewarding.
Planning post operations for the coming year

New post officers generally take office with enthusiasm and a desire for a successful year. In the charge
accepted at installation, the commander is entrusted with the supervision of the duties of all other post
officers. Encourage them to use initiative and develop new ideas. The success of the post will be judged by
their effectiveness.
There are many ways to determine whether a post commander and the post’s officers are having a
successful year. Value judgments are made by the members, the community, and by The American Legion
itself. Like it or not, a gain or loss in membership is the measure most commonly used.

The membership record is a reliable barometer of what the post is doing. An active post where the
members enjoy themselves often creates a word-of-mouth membership campaign, and the members are
proud to belong. It’s natural for them to talk “Legion” to their friends, neighbors, relatives, coworkers and
business associates. If they enjoy belonging to The American Legion, they are more likely to want their
friends to belong as well.
Before salespeople can sell a product, they must have a good product – something people want and value.
Programs, social activities, the opportunity to make new friends, even the post home itself – these are what
The American Legion has to sell.
Post executive committee

Running even a small post is more than a one-person job. Therefore, a post constitution should provide for
a full group of post officers, as well as an executive committee. Others are elected to fulfill specific roles. It’s
up to the commander to get them to work together for the post’s success.
Start the year by having an organizational meeting of the post’s officers and executive committee. This can
happen even before installation, and the outgoing post commander and adjutant can be invited to attend.
Records, minutes and other materials

The commander and adjutant should know what post records are used, where they are kept, and how to
use them.
Members are proud of their record of continuous membership. Keep these and all other membership
records up to date.
Maintenance of meeting minutes is extremely important. More than one legal case has turned on what an
adjutant wrote in the minutes of a meeting conducted years ago.
Verify the financial accounts are in balance and accurate. Update current authorized post representatives
with financial institutions.
Locate important post documents, such as the charter, constitution and by-laws, state articles of
incorporation, licenses and insurance.
Budget and fundraising

One of the first things reviewed by new post officers should be the post budget. Officers need to know
what income is expected for the year and how it should be spent. Following these three general principles
will help the post avoid money troubles:
• Have the annual dues cover the expenses related to administrative costs: postage, stationery, and
department and national per capita payments. These are costs that every post must cover to stay
functional.
• If the community is to benefit from an American Legion project, don’t hesitate to solicit the community
for funds – for example, an American Legion Baseball team, a community playground or a swimming
pool. The post will add to its reputation with such projects, but always prepare a full public accounting
of all funds received and of how they are spent.
• Don’t ask the public to give in the name of charity for any project that benefits primarily to
Legionnaires. A business may sponsor someone to attend Boys State, but it probably wouldn’t care to
give money to buy a new cooler for the bar. Sometimes it is necessary to raise funds from outside for
something that is strictly for the benefit of the post and its members. When this happens, make sure
that the public receives full value.

Committee assignments
Elected officers will be responsible for some of the activities and projects. Appointed chairs will be in
charge of others. Decide at the very beginning what is going to happen, when it is going to happen, and
who is going to make it happen. Most of the assignments will be to carry on established programs or
activities.
Handbooks, manuals and brochures exist for all of The American Legion’s premier programs: Boys State,
American Legion Baseball, scholarships, and more (see page 138). These publications are available from
department headquarters and have information and ideas that the committee chairs need. Take them to
the first planning meeting and turn them over to the proper people.
Programs new and old

Programs are needed to maintain interest and, most importantly, stay relevant to post members and the
community. Every new activity or program offers the opportunity to interest new people in joining the
post. Inactive members can be turned into active members through engagement with programs.
Just about every post has service programs and social activities started long ago that are now traditions.
Any program run the same way year after year grows stale. At the organizational meeting, review the post’s
programs and activities. Decide which need some changes or an update. A program won’t happen without
volunteers to make it happen. Every program or activity needs to have someone in charge – usually a post
officer or committee chair. If the selection is good, the program will succeed. Have each responsible post
officer and committee chair build an event timetable to integrate with the master post calendar.
First post meeting

At the first post meeting, expect to be compared to previous commanders. This is the time to set the tone
for the entire year. If changes are going to be made, start now. The basic framework for any post meeting
is found in the Manual of Ceremonies (see page 35). By following the prescribed custom and order of
business, even a person who has never before presided over a meeting can do an adequate job.
As a new commander, it is normal to feel self-conscious about running a formal meeting, particularly in a
post that has gotten away from the Manual of Ceremonies. The American Legion is a respected organization,
and its meetings should be suitably formal and impressive. No time is saved by omitting parts of the
custom. Meetings, of course, can and should vary. But by following the prescribed structure and order of
business, the agenda should be completed in about an hour.
Agenda
While the Manual of Ceremonies provides the structure or skeleton for a meeting, the commander’s
agenda puts meat on the bones. The agenda for the first and each succeeding meeting should list the
exact committees scheduled to report. Prior to putting a chairperson’s name on the agenda, ask if that
person is ready to report. This is an easy way to verify if the chairperson is doing the job. If not, a little
encouragement, along with a few suggestions or perhaps some prodding, might lead to action.
Protocol
Although “protocol” is a term used primarily in setting the rules of etiquette that govern diplomatic
functions, there is a certain amount of protocol applied to American Legion meetings and social functions,
especially those with a dignitary present. This is the responsibility of the post commander, from the
planning to the event itself.
If the department commander is to be invited, the request should be registered promptly with department
headquarters. In preliminary planning, it is advisable to have an alternate date in the event the department
commander is already committed for the original date.

The invitation should list the time, place, whether dinner is included, significance of the event and any
other information. Will it be a joint American Legion Family function? Will non-Legionnaire dignitaries
be present? Remember, this is the post “home,” and those you invite deserve all the courtesies and
considerations accorded a distinguished guest.
If the event is a dinner, notify those who will be seated at the head table before they arrive. Escort them to
their places to avoid confusion. The presiding or host officer is seated to the right of the lectern. The master
of ceremonies is seated to the left of the lectern. Use place cards to identify those at the head table.
Introductions begin after the meal. The presiding officer stands at the center of the head table and makes
the introductions, beginning at the extreme left, continuing to the center of the table, and then starting
at the extreme right and continuing to the center. The main speaker, the guest of honor, is the last person
introduced.
Officers are introduced in the order by which they were installed: sergeant-at-arms, service officer, historian,
judge advocate, chaplain, finance officer, adjutant, vice commanders and commander.
As with all rules, there are some exceptions. If the event is a function of both the Legion and the Auxiliary,
the Auxiliary officers and dignitaries are introduced first. Members and alternate members of the National
Executive Committee should be introduced immediately before the department commander.
Welcome committee
The first meeting is a great time to start a welcoming committee if the post doesn’t have one already. Ask
two or three members – including the sergeant-at-arms – to take on the job of welcoming new members,
guests or even older members who are not well acquainted, helping them feel at home and introducing
them. An active welcome committee is part of the post’s public relations job.
Pageantry and honors

Pageantry and patriotic observances as well as honors are something the community expects of its
American Legion post. A well-trained color guard and even a burial detail composed of members of the
Legion family will help keep the local post visible in the community.
Community projects
A good post commander will encourage members to actively participate in civic affairs. The entire post
should be proud when a member is elected to the school board, heads up the United Way or gets a
promotion in a job. Go out of the way to congratulate members on their accomplishments, whether in the
Legion or in another field.
Saying ”thanks”
Plan, assign responsibilities, check back to see that the job is being done, and then say, “Thank you!” A post
can express its appreciation in many ways, including awards, citations and recognition at a post meeting.
Even a simple “thank you” note can mean a great deal. This simple courtesy should never be overlooked.
Resolutions
Any improvement to The American Legion at any level starts with putting an idea into the form of a
resolution. Have it passed by the local post, then by the district. All resolutions passed at a district level are
delivered to the department’s resolutions committee. At the department convention, the author should
appear before the resolutions committee and advocate for the resolution. Be prepared to support its
passage on the floor of the department convention. All resolutions pertaining to the national organization
passed by the department are forwarded to the national convention. For guidance on writing resolutions,
see page 121.

Sources of help
A commander relies on a team of post officers and taps the potential of post members. Valuable assistance
comes from past post commanders, district officers, department officers and, where necessary, National
Headquarters staff.
• Past commanders Many posts have an active Past Commanders’ Club. Sometimes its primary purpose
is social – retention of good fellowship among those who have served as commanders. This group can
be a wealth of knowledge and ability. Whether such a club is formally organized in the post or not, it is
helpful to build a Commander’s Advisory Committee with past commanders.
• District officers The post is a separate and distinct unit that functions independently. However,
the work of the post can be more effective when tightly linked to the department and national
organization. District officers provide that link. The district commander is usually the elected
representative of posts in the district; an obligation to provide guidance and oversight is implied.
Posts are charged with carrying out the Legion’s objectives and programs and to comply fully with
the obligations assumed under the post, department and national constitutions. If the post becomes
inactive or falters, expect your district commander to get involved. The district commander has a
position of respect in the organization. A visit to your post calls for something special. Make it a social
event significant enough to draw a crowd. The dignity shown the office helps increase the importance
of the office of post commander.
• Department officers Department officers are “show” people. A visit from one usually offers an
opportunity for media coverage, and the type of Legion function attracting your members and
community leaders. These officers are elected leaders and deserving of every respect. Not every
post will receive annual visits from a department commander. If the invitation is accepted, or there is
occasion to visit the post, make the most of it.
• Department headquarters The department headquarters is the link between local posts and the
national organization. The post will deal directly with the department adjutant. Routine business
should be conducted through department headquarters. Questions of policy and organization should
also be referred to department headquarters. The post commander should closely follow department
affairs, know what statewide activities are going on, and involve the post. Commanders should also
study all instructions from department headquarters and pass them on to the appropriate officer
or committee for action. Finally, the post’s membership needs to be informed of any new activities
initiated by the department.
• National Headquarters Nearly all contact with National Headquarters rightfully comes through
department headquarters. There is, however, one publication that should be faithfully read and kept,
issue by issue: The American Legion Dispatch, which provides you the latest American Legion news and
information on which to base programs. Post officers should also subscribe to The American Legion
Online Update and other digitally delivered newsletters at legion.org/newsletters.
Auxiliary unit
The Auxiliary unit is an important part of the post’s organization. Official contact with the unit is through
the unit president. The unit can help only in proportion to its opportunity. A good commander will find
opportunities for the Auxiliary unit to assist the post. The commander, or a designated representative, will
keep in close touch with the unit and give its members plenty of inspiration, encouragement and support.
Conventions
While the post could continue to operate without the district, department or national organization, it is
more effective as a part of a team. There may be an idea to develop and expand beyond your post. The
post should have a voice in the future programs and direction of The American Legion. District, department

and national conventions are where American Legion policy is determined. Be certain that the post is
represented by properly elected delegates, particularly at the district and department level.
The American Legion Basic Training

The BASIC TRAINING course provides a pillar-by-pillar understanding of American Legion services,
programs and history. The mobile-friendly online training is available free for members of The American
Legion, Sons of The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary.
BASIC TRAINING is a five-part course offered under the American Legion training banner at
legion.org/basictraining. Core topics covered are History & Organization, Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation,
National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth. Each core topic includes suggestions on ways that
American Legion Family members can influence and strengthen their local communities.
Course graduates can download and print a certificate of completion and order a pin from Emblem Sales.
Program reminders
Post programs require intelligent planning. Each year the district and the department should conduct
training on both general operations and specific American Legion programs. To reduce the risk of
leadership problems in the post, have the post represented at training sessions. Attendance at district and
department functions also helps build esprit de corps for a good Legion post. Per Resolution No. 16, passed
by the National Executive Committee in October 2016, the Legion expects all participants of our programs
to show proper respect to the U.S. flag at all times, including during the national anthem.
JANUARY Initiation ceremonies are good membership stabilizers. Keep working on membership, especially
by contacting those who became delinquent Jan. 1. January is a good time to present flags and copies of
the flag code to local schools. Check dates for post, district/county and state Oratorical contests. March is
Community Service Month, so now is the time to plan initiatives and projects. A community assessment
can reveal areas where additional effort is needed most.
FEBRUARY (Americanism Month) Host a Four Chaplains Day program. Plan school awards with local
educators. Sponsor religious emphasis activities. Start planning the upcoming American Legion Baseball
season. Invite a local veteran employment representative to speak at a post meeting. Consider hosting
observances of Abraham Lincoln’s and George Washington’s birthdays. Plan an American Legion birthday
program for March.
MARCH (Community Service Month) Give priority to Boys State selection by this month. Close out the
membership campaign, and mail per capita fees and cards to the department. Recognize the anniversary
of The American Legion’s founding March 15-17. This is an occasion for post officers to focus on projecting
the vision and image of The American Legion in the community, in the programs sponsored and services
provided, and also on the appearance of the post home and surrounding grounds. The post should be a
stakeholder in the community, conscious it represents the national organization to local citizens. Renewed
attention to appearance doesn’t require a capital improvement project, merely attention to detail and
routine maintenance, from signage to inside and outside improvements. Between January and March,
consider forming a committee to host an open house.
APRIL (Children & Youth Month) Coordinate Children & Youth activities and recognition with the post’s
Auxiliary unit. Obtain Children & Youth Guide from department headquarters. Plan election of new officers,
summer Scouting activities and Boys State. Put American Legion Child Welfare Foundation Week on the
post calendar.
MAY This month marks the anniversary of the St. Louis Caucus, where organization of The American Legion
was completed in 1919. National Poppy Week, Memorial Day, Armed Forces Day and Mother’s Day form the
basis for good post programs and outreach to U.S. military personnel in communities nationwide. Consider
honoring them with a Blue Star Salute. Honor veteran gravesites. Present school awards at the end of the

semester. Kick off American Legion Baseball and summer athletic programs. Ask school officials to approve
American Legion activities and put them on the calendar for next year: Oratorical Contest, Boys State,
school awards, American Education Week.
JUNE Start planning a membership drive for next year. Develop a plan engage veterans. June 14 is Flag Day,
so consider surveying people and businesses in the community, asking who flies flags on patriotic holidays.
The history of Old Glory would make an excellent program for a post meeting. Summer youth programs
need members’ support and attendance.
JULY Host a community Fourth of July celebration. Certify new officers with department headquarters.
Installation of officers makes an impressive ceremony at a post meeting. Continue efforts on behalf of
summer youth programs.
AUGUST By now the post has received next year’s membership cards from department headquarters. In
many communities, school starts at the beginning or middle of the month. Begin planning a community
Veterans Day observance.
SEPTEMBER (National Disaster Preparedness Month) Encourage the community to recognize Patriot
Day, Sept. 11. Celebrate the anniversary of Congress’ charter of The American Legion on Sept. 16, perhaps
with an event including civic leaders. Sept. 17 is Constitution Day, an ideal time for a citizenship program.
The third Friday of the month is National POW/MIA Recognition Day.
OCTOBER Launch the membership campaign. Remember, dues for the following year are payable by
Oct. 20. Organize and participate in Halloween safety programs.
NOVEMBER Continue full speed ahead on the membership campaign. Get them in before Dec. 31. Lead
the community in observing Veterans Day and American Education Week.
DECEMBER Acknowledge Pearl Harbor Day on Dec. 7. As the holiday season begins, encourage and
support activities that bring Christmas cheer to underprivileged families in the community. Keep plugging
for renewals and new members. Visit veterans who are ill or in assisted living facilities.
Adjutant
The adjutant is the primary administrative officer for the post. Post activities revolve around the adjutant.
Most posts retain a good adjutant over a period of years. The role of adjutant provides continuity for
a post. While the commander’s duties are largely inspirational and executive, an adjutant’s duties are
administrative and functional. The commander navigates the ship, while the adjutant is the engineer who
sees that the ship’s machinery is working and maintained.
The adjutant is the personnel officer and personal point of contact for individual members of the post. They
maintain membership records and minutes of meetings, check up and assist the work of the other officers
and committees, and publish official orders, announcements and communication with post members.
All post records should be maintained and accessible by the adjutant, in a comprehensive filing system.
The office involves a great deal of work and attention to detail. An effective adjutant is an essential
component of a successful post. It is suggested that some degree of compensation should be paid to the
adjutant, particularly in large posts, due to the commitment required by the role.
Suggestions for the new adjutant

The only indispensable qualifications for the job of adjutant are honesty and willingness. They should go
through all the post records at the first opportunity. The constitution, minutes of meetings, and reports
of officers and committees will give insight into the post’s policies and traditions. Communications from
department headquarters will bring the adjutant up to date on instructions.

The Post Adjutant’s Manual has detailed instructions on the handling of membership cards, per
capita payments and other duties. Every adjutant should have a copy. Request one from department
headquarters or download it at legion.org/publications.
First vice commander

In most posts, a first and second vice commander are elected, with membership and retention being the
primary concern of the first vice commander.
While each post is different, a membership campaign should cover certain fundamentals. Look at the
methods used in the past. Develop new procedures to improve the methods being used.
In a successful post, a new commander is going to contact the post officers and committee chairs
immediately after election to schedule a meeting where they can lay out a general plan of operation for the
entire year. This is when the membership plan should also be decided.
It is recommended that a vice commander execute a plan to conduct a Buddy Check twice a year at a
minimum.
The four W’s of planning

• WHO – Who’s going to execute each step necessary to reach the goal?
• WHAT – What steps are required to reach the objective?
• WHEN – When is the work going to be done?
• WHERE – Where do you want to go? What’s the objective?
The commander and post best know the membership potential in their community. The steps to get there
are similar for every post. Answer the following questions for the post and community to outline your job
and know how to reach goals:
• Mailed dues notices will bring in about 80 percent of current member renewals. Who is going to
contact the remaining 20 percent who do not respond?
• How is the post going to contact and recruit prospective members? Who’s going to contact them? How
will new recruits be assimilated into the post?
• Who can be counted on to work at membership and how will they be organized?
• What awards or special recognition will be given?
• What special events can be tied in with membership, such as Veterans Day, team competition, contests
with other posts, The American Legion’s birthday, etc.?
Other duties
Membership may be the primary assignment of a first vice commander, but during a normal year, this
person will have many other duties. The vice commander should be familiar with the ceremonial protocol
for regular meetings, and will likely be called upon to conduct one or more meetings during the year due
to an absence of the post commander. Knowing how to develop an agenda, run a meeting and follow
protocol are useful skills to develop. The vice commander should be ready to fill in for the commander at a
moment’s notice.

Second vice commander
The second vice commander is responsible for building an atmosphere in which Legionnaires have fun
while accomplishing the mission of their American Legion post.
The commander depends on the second vice commander to help run operations to spice up meetings
and attract members to the post. The social calendar should be filled months in advance with activities
designed to engage members.
One of the second vice commander’s first duties should be to contact other veterans and civic groups to
verify each patriotic holiday and observance receives the respect it deserves.
The second vice commander should be looking for ways to involve members in post activities, operations
and programs to assist the first vice commander by providing improved member retention.
Finance officer
The finance officer should be honest and have experience in handling financial affairs. The post depends on
fiduciary integrity and should acquire expert advice in formulating and administering its financial policy.
The finance officer usually serves as the chair of the finance committee and is in charge of all receiving
and disbursing of post funds. The post adjutant, in all matters relating to finance, should carry on the work
in close correlation with the finance officer. Post accounting forms assist in meeting the requirements of
American Legion posts in maintaining a correct and permanent membership and finance record. No special
knowledge of bookkeeping or accounting is required.
Be prompt in remitting national and department per capita fees and cards to department headquarters. It
is essential the finance officer maintain accurate financial records for all post operations and activities.
Post service officer

The value of a post service officer increases with length of service. As the service officer’s reputation grows,
so will the value of the organization in the veteran community. The job requires a competent, dedicated
and organized person, preferably one is readily available to provide assistance. The post service officer is
responsible for bringing awareness to all veterans and their dependents the rights and benefits granted
them by law.
The post service officer also must know how to access and utilize the expert services available through
The American Legion, state and federal government agencies, and local community agencies. The job
requires timely submission of information to full-time professionals so veterans and their dependents are
adequately represented. The service officer’s report should be a standard part of every meeting.
The American Legion maintains a full staff of appeals representatives in the Washington, D.C., and
Indianapolis headquarters offices. A small mobile staff of field representatives provides a constant flow of
information concerning conditions in VA hospitals, domiciles and regional offices. Other American Legion
representatives assist veterans who petition DoD boards for review of less than fully honorable discharges
or dismissal from the military. They also assist veterans in obtaining deserved decorations and medals.
Department service officers are certified and can provide necessary claims forms. Additional information
comes through department publications, National Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation bulletins,
memorandums and VA pamphlets. Many departments conduct training for post service officers to gain
knowledge and contacts, and all have trained and certified service officers in VA regional offices and
hospitals.
With most of today’s veteran population composed of those who served during the Vietnam War era and
after, the work of the post service officer continues to be vital. These former servicemembers are likely to

not be fully versed in veterans benefits and programs. Meanwhile, older veterans need advice on how to
integrate possible benefits into their retirement plans. Dependents should be contacted as soon as feasible
after a veteran’s death.
Every Congress considers legislative matters of importance to veterans and to The American Legion.
Working in cooperation with the post legislative committee, the post service officer can aid the national
organization’s legislative efforts.
Chaplain
The chaplain need not necessarily be a clergyman, but must be a person capable of moral and intellectual
leadership and one who gives dignity and respect to the office. The chaplain should be in close touch with
the commander and other post officers, and should attend all meetings of the post executive committee.
The leadership in many post activities belongs by right to the chaplain, and when this office is filled by the
right person, the post’s usefulness to the community greatly increases.
The Manual of Ceremonies (see page 35) gives an important place to the chaplain in the conduct of
meetings, the observance of patriotic occasions, funeral services and dedication ceremonies. At all these
events, the chaplain is the moral leader.
The chaplain should work with the post historian on grave registration work and inspire the post to
decorate veteran graves, especially on Memorial Day. Besides officiating at post members’ funerals when
requested, the chaplain can serve their bereaved families. The chaplain may also chair the post’s Veterans
Administration Voluntary Services (VAVS) Committee, which coordinates volunteer work at nearby VA
facilities. The American Legion Chaplain’s Handbook, available online and through department headquarters,
offers guidance for the post chaplain and religious emphasis committee.
Sergeant-at-arms
The sergeant-at-arms arranges the meeting hall and assists the post commander and adjutant in
preliminary arrangements for meetings, including leading the color detail during presentation and
retirement ceremonies. This person is the expert on flag etiquette, knows proper flag etiquette, and plays a
leading role in the post color guard, burial detail and other pageantry.
The sergeant-at-arms is the logical person to chair a welcome committee, which can have a tremendous
influence on the post’s image, membership and relationship with members. Every Legionnaire wants to feel
part of the group, particularly new Legionnaires attending their first few meetings. The sergeant-at-arms
must make certain new members are welcomed, introduced and made to feel they are important to the
post. The sergeant-at-arms encourages members to attend meetings and advises the commander on who
should be acknowledged.
Historian
The work of post historian is cumulative. It is wise to leave the responsibility to one person if handled well.
There should be close cooperation between the post adjutant and the historian. The former works with
records on matters of current interest, the latter on matters of historical interest. The post historian should
also keep in touch with the department historian and be prompt in answering inquiries. An annual report
should be made to the department historian prior to the department convention.
Copies of printed material regarding the post should be deposited in local and state libraries, as well
as in the post and department archives. This will prevent complete loss of records through fire or other
catastrophe, as well as provide source material for those looking for information about The American
Legion. An outline for a one-year post narrative history and yearbook is provided in the appendix (see
pages 125-134).

The post historian should attend department conventions and make a point of knowing what historians of
nearby posts are doing. The department historian can advise post historians on department and national
post history contests, historians associations, and materials to assist in maintaining best practices.
Judge advocate
The judge advocate supplies professional advice in the conduct of post business or to procure proper
counsel. This officer is the guardian of the constitutional form of post government. The judge advocate can
also supply valuable assistance to other post committees and officers, and should maintain contact with
local government officials.
The judge advocate commonly has the duty, with others, of auditing post financial accounts. This is done
annually, usually before the election of officers, or more frequently at their discretion.
Executive committee
Government and management of the post is entrusted to the executive committee. It should meet
regularly or as often as the commander deems necessary. In some cases, the post executive committee is
further charged with assisting in hiring employees, authorizing and approving all expenditures, hearing
reports of post committee chairpersons, and providing business oversight over post affairs.
Delegation of these functions to the executive committee is in no way intended to usurp the powers of the
membership through regular post meetings. Rather, this allows the routine business affairs of the post to
be handled outside of post meetings. Committee reports and other issues of general interest to members
should be handled during post meetings.
The key to interesting post meetings is using the executive committee effectively. The post meeting that
becomes bogged down in arguments on petty details is interesting only to those engaged in the conflict.
Standing committees
Listed below are examples of a few committees commonly found in most American Legion posts. The post
constitution and/or department constitution may require additional committees or may have other names
for some committees, so the committees listed are not mandatory or all-encompassing for every post.
New programs are often needed, while old programs should be changed, revitalized or, in some cases,
eliminated. Officers should review the post’s long-standing programs and activities for relevance to
members and the local community. Determine which committees are necessary. Make a list of potential
committee heads and members. Each committee chair needs to know how the work of the committee fits
into the overall program of the post, what is expected and when.
Americanism Seeks to inspire love of country and good citizenship through patriotic observances, flag
etiquette, civic instruction in schools, the Americanization of immigrants, community service, and youth
activities such as Boys State, Boy Scouts, Oratorical Contest, School Award Medals and American Legion
Baseball.
Children & Youth Ensures children of veterans in need of care and protection receive proper and timely
services and aid, extends connections to verified organizations and facilities providing services for children
and youth, and maintains programs that meet the needs of youth in the local community.
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Assists veterans in pursuing claims, understanding their rights and
obtaining their benefits. Committee members also visit veterans who are sick, disabled or residing in
assisted living facilities, and provide comfort to members’ families in illness and bereavement.
National Security Engages in community emergency preparedness, promotes public safety, and supports
local and national civilian defense projects.

Membership & Post Activities Recruits, retains and engages members to give the post the volunteers to
create success for The American Legion in the local community.
Public Relations Elevates awareness in the veterans community and the community of American Legion
advocacy of veterans issues, national security, Americanism and youth. The American Legion is defined in
the public eye by the values it demonstrates. The committee accomplishes this in two ways: placing radio
and TV advertisements and public service announcements produced by National Headquarters where they
can be seen and heard, and developing relationships with editors and journalists in the post’s community
so they cover programs supporting the Legion’s four pillars. For example, the High School Oratorical
Contest is the reporter’s news peg, but the Legion’s support for a “one hundred percent Americanism” is
the story. Why and how veterans strengthen America is the question the post’s public relations committee
should answer in the media. Public relations is a membership multiplier.
Legislative Promotes The American Legion’s official legislative mandates, disseminates legislative updates,
organizes and promotes proactive grassroots lobbying activities, and liaisons with elected officials and
their staffs. All activities must be in compliance with Section 2, Article II of the Constitution of The American
Legion, which forbids the dissemination of partisan principles and the promotion of the candidacy of any
person seeking public office. However, voter education is a critical element of the electoral process, and
posts are permitted to host town hall meetings, put on “meet the candidate” nights and allow candidates
to address post meetings, district conferences or state conventions. Candidates may participate as long as
invitations are extended to all candidates, affording them equal opportunity to participate. The American
Legion cannot endorse or oppose any candidate, even if the candidate is a Legionnaire and post member. A
post home should be free of any political materials that would appear to be an endorsement of a particular
candidate. Every effort must be made to remain nonpartisan. Note: If in doubt, contact the department for
clarification before proceeding.
Finance Supervises the receiving, disbursement and accounting of all post funds, prepares annual budget
recommendations, and advises the post on all financial policies.
Economic Assists veterans in meeting and overcoming problems such as employment, veterans
preference, housing, civil service appeals, and employment of handicapped and older workers.
House Supervises the operation of the post’s physical facilities, such as a clubroom, American Legion
center, meeting room, etc. Responsibilities include administration, equipment, and the hiring and direction
of employees (as authorized by the post executive committee), and general rules applicable to the conduct
of members while on the post’s premises.
Service Key to every successful post, assisting returning veterans in their transition to civilian life. Other
concerns include employment, on-the-job training, and educating veterans on their rights and benefits.
The committee should maintain contact with members of the armed forces from the post’s community.
Other committees
Your post may need additional committees, depending on the programs and activities offered, including:
Sons of The American Legion (SAL) Supervises the Sons of The American Legion squadron in its
organization, activities and programs.
American Legion Riders (ALR) Supervises the American Legion Riders chapter in its organization,
activities and programs.
Graves Registration and Memorials Records, marks and decorates graves of deceased veterans, renders
service and comfort to bereaved families, and provides American Legion military funeral honors when
requested.

Uniformed Groups Organizes, trains, promotes and supervises uniformed groups, such as a burial detail,
color guard, chorus or firing squad.
Visiting or Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Services (VAVS) Gives comfort and assistance to
members and their families during illness or bereavement, and visits veterans who are hospitalized or in
assisted-living facilities.
Uniformed groups
The American Legion pioneered the modern drum corps through post-level amateur musical drill units, and
has been adding to the beauty, excitement and precision of the modern parade since 1921.
Uniformed groups are The American Legion’s “display cases,” so to speak. At parades, funerals and special
events, they advertise the Legion’s size, scope and substance to the public at large; they are one of the
finest opportunities for post public relations. They afford those involved a sense of accomplishment, and a
great deal of satisfaction and enjoyment.
Any post wanting to offer uniformed group activities is encouraged to do so. There are many options from
which to choose: an ensemble or band, a color guard or firing squad, a chorus or quartet.
Every year, the national convention puts on color guard and band contests, in the following classes:
Color Guard
Military
Military Open
Open
Advancing and Retiring Colors
Band
Concert Band
Exhibition Concert Band
For details and rules concerning band and color guard competition at the national convention, contact the
Convention & Meetings Division at (317) 630-1313 or go online to legion.org/convention.
Social activities
Someone once described The American Legion as an organization that came to play but stayed to work.
That describes Legionnaires, too. Most members join because of real or expected comradeship, fun
and social activities. A good post recognizes this, giving as much attention to planning a social event as
it does to any other project. A post must determine the type of social activities that will appeal to the
greatest number of members, but each activity should be evaluated as to its affect on the community and
potentially eligible veterans.
American Legion buildings

Every American Legion post is different and should reflect the community in which it is located. Not all
posts have their own building. Some are located in country clubs; others are in community centers. Some
have clubrooms; others are simply meeting halls. Some are newly built; others haven’t been renovated or
changed since before World War II. Some appeal to a particular type of veteran; others try to appeal to a
wide spectrum of service. Some are landscaped and painted, while others are inside high-rise buildings.
Clubroom
If post members decide they want a clubroom and/or bar, it must have the best possible operation.

Analysis of post operations
President Abraham Lincoln is said to have remarked, “A man’s legs need to be long enough to reach the
ground.” In the same way, a post’s membership needs to be large enough to carry on the work of the post.
A post’s activities cannot exceed what members can support. Before discussing how big the post should
be, consider these questions:
• What does the post do to make a veteran desire membership?
• Does the post have a vision for the future?
• What activities could the post reasonably expect to offer?
• How many members can the post handle?
• Is it satisfied with its current membership?
• Is there room for membership growth?
• What kind of post is it and what type of post does it want to be?
• What is the reason for the post’s existence in the community?
The answers for every post will be different, revealing which posts are capable of membership growth and
which must improve and modernize their programs before healthy membership growth can be supported.
In any given post, there is a reliable group of members who do most of the work. Nearly all posts build their
programs around this manpower pool. Even so, this percentage of active members does not need to hover
at the same mark.
Steps to a better post

Many times, new post officers are eager to do a job but lack the background or organization skills to
complete their year. The following outline is a proven plan that can help organize a post, useful at all levels:
Step I Obtain post records and get new material from department headquarters to become familiar with
the policies and traditions of the post, district, department and National Headquarters.
Step II Call an early meeting of your newly elected officers. Invite the outgoing commander and adjutant
and other influential Legionnaires to meet with you.
A suggested agenda should include:
a. Budget
1. Old, and possibly new, sources of income
2. Estimated expenditures
3. Possible methods of financing selected programs with outside funds
b. Assignments and outline of duties of elected officers
c. Discussion of individual programs and committees to determine the following:
1. Qualifications and suggestions for committee chairs and members
2. Established programs

3. Possible new programs (use available handbooks and department material as guides)
4. Program schedule
a. Discussion programs unique to the post
e. Initiate study of the post and community for new programs, conduct post analysis
Step III Activate committees.
a. Select a chairperson and members.
b. Make personal contact with each chair to determine his or her willingness to serve.
c. Arrange a meeting of committees to formulate a program.
d. Instruct chairmen on programs, available materials, post reports and more.
e. Build a timetable for each committee to fit into the overall post calendar.
Step IV Coordinate with the post’s Auxiliary unit. Many programs depend on Auxiliary support to be successful.
Step V Conduct a post meeting.
a. The first post meeting tends to set a pattern for the entire year.
b. Work closely with the adjutant, officers and committee heads.
c. Run a formal meeting, following the ritual in the Manual of Ceremonies.
d. Post business should be attended to as briefly as possible.
e. Know department and national material in advance and report items of interest to the membership.
f. Committee reports should be brief and to the point.
g. Consider qualified speakers at some or all meetings for briefings on some phase of Legion programs.
h. Don’t neglect the social side.
i. Announce the main business of the next meeting.
j. Have the welcome committee established.
Step VI Conduct a Public Relations Committee meeting.
a. Discuss ways and means.
b. Formulate instruction to post officers and committee chairs on standard procedure for keeping the
Public Relations chair and editor of the newspaper or bulletin informed.
Step VII Plan for a more informed membership.
a. Include talks at post meetings.
b. Give everyone a job.
c. Encourage enrollment and completion of the American Legion Basic Training course online.
d. Pass on information.

e. Publish a monthly post newspaper or bulletin.
f. Acquaint active members with veteran benefits.
Step VIII Appoint a coordinating committee for patriotic observances.
a. Work with standing committees, including younger members.
b. Work with the entire community to recognize local active military personnel and all veterans.
c. Include uniformed groups if available.
Step IX Give proper credit.
a. Awards and citations
b. Thank-you notes
c. Recognition at meetings
Step X The voice of the Legionnaire and the post is only heard by active participation in meetings,
whether district, department or national.
a. Plan election of delegates as part of the post timetable.
b. Attend district, department and national conventions and conferences.
c. Present sound resolutions of concern to The American Legion.
d. Report back to the post.
Step XI Follow standard procedures and schedule all year round. Plan post meetings three months ahead,
and social activities six months ahead.
Step XII It is never too early to evaluate possible post officers for next year.
Post charters
Application forms for chartering a new American Legion post may be obtained from department
headquarters. A temporary charter is issued first, and when the post’s founders have demonstrated
their ability to maintain a post over a period of no fewer than 90 days and have developed an efficient
organization for furthering The American Legion’s work and ideals, they are eligible to receive a permanent
post charter.
A post name must be adopted before a new post is issued a charter. Many posts choose to adopt the
name of an individual as a fitting memorial. If members do not wish to decide on a permanent name at
the time the post is organized, it is recommended that a temporary name be adopted (for instance, the
name of the town or county). This can be changed by resolution of the post membership when applying
for permanent charter.
A copy of the resolution, attested by the post commander and the post adjutant, should be attached to
each copy of the application for permanent charter.
When a post with a permanent charter adopts a new name, a new permanent charter bearing the new
name may be obtained upon written request through department headquarters. Such requests should
be accompanied by duly attested copies of the resolution adopting the new name and by surrender of
the old charter.

If a post loses its permanent charter through fire or other damage, a new one may be obtained by a written
request to the department headquarters. The request should include an explanation of the loss, signed by
the post commander and attested by the post adjutant.
Charters for incorporated posts

Posts and departments that have incorporated since receiving their original charters need to obtain
supplemental charters in their corporate capacity upon application to National Headquarters. This brings
the legal incorporated status of the post into conformity with its charter status so the incorporated post
may avoid confusion when dealing with the Internal Revenue Service.
Formational meeting
A tentative draft should be made of a post constitution before the formational meeting (see pages 85-87).
The person best fitted for the purpose among the organizers should call the meeting to order, outline its
purposes, and point out the following facts:
• This meeting is called to form a local post of The American Legion.
• The American Legion has posts in most U.S. counties and many countries throughout the world.
• The American Legion includes veterans of all the nation’s wars and conflicts since World War II.
• Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who served honorably between December
7, 1941, and the date of cessation of hostilities as determined by the U.S. government, and men and
women whose service began during one of those periods and remain in service, are eligible to be
admitted as post members.
• Fifteen members are commonly required for the formal application for a charter; however, the actual
minimum number is set by each department.
• Annual membership dues should be established to cover anticipated administrative expenses. Dues
are collected annually and include national, department and, on occasion, district assessments.
The organizer should then call for nominations for a temporary chairman and secretary. Once elected, these
officers will take charge of proceedings.
The suggested constitution should be discussed and the approved form adopted. Then the temporary chair
should name a committee to consider a name for the post. (No post may be named in honor of a living
person.) It is customary, but not necessary, to adopt the name of a local person who died in one of the
nation’s wars or conflicts. The name of a deceased veteran can also be used.
A list should be compiled of those in attendance, including full name, local address, contact information,
branch and conflict, and other information maintained on the national database. This information should
be kept for the person elected adjutant.
The committee charged with finding a name for the post should then report and a name be adopted. The
temporary chair should then ask for nominations for the following officers:
Post commander Post finance officer
Post vice commander Post historian
Post adjutant Post chaplain
Post service officer Post sergeant-at-arms

The newly elected officers should then assume their duties, and the new commander should immediately
name the standing committees. The membership committee should be instructed to canvas for new
members and secure blank applications. All original and new members should complete these as soon as
they are available. Standard membership applications can be secured from the department.
The original (white sheet) of the charter application should then be signed by the minimum required by
the department constitution. These forms may be secured from department headquarters. It is preferable
to have the post officers sign first, in the order named above. When completed, the newly elected adjutant
should record the same names and addresses on the remaining two copies. All three copies should then be
signed by the post commander, attested by the adjutant, and – together with the per capita payment for all
names appearing on the application – be sent to department headquarters.
New posts
When the department-prescribed minimum number of eligible veterans has decided to form a new post,
and they have the go-ahead from the county or district and department officers, set a time and place for
a formational meeting. Spread the word via local newspapers, email, websites, and social media such as
Facebook and Twitter.
Establishing a new post or reviving a dormant one is not difficult if a group follows certain steps. Determine
first that there are sufficient veterans in a particular community or neighborhood to support an active and
growing post. Someone of stature from the district or the department must visit the area and assess the
community’s and veterans’ needs. This may take the form of a survey, asking where The American Legion
might serve in connection with local schools and school programs, drug abuse and suicide prevention,
Scouting, care for disabled or aging veterans, or the community’s need for volunteer groups such as the
American Legion Auxiliary. Such a survey should certainly take into account the community’s recreational
and social facilities.
Often, even while such a survey is in progress, the post can go a long way toward recruiting eligible
veterans who have the ability and willingness to be the core group around which an American Legion
post can be built. The local school superintendent or principal might suggest some names of those who
would be interested. Federal employees are often eligible members. The local Scouting executive may also
know some veterans who would see a new Legion post as a way to expand the Scouting program. Adults
active in Little League or other youth baseball programs are usually interested in ensuring that there is an
American Legion Baseball team and can be instrumental in assisting in the search for the necessary number
of veterans to start a post. Other organizations, such as Lions or Kiwanis, may need the cooperation of an
American Legion service officer to round out a program. Banks and other businesses are often interested
in being represented in such a venture, particularly if the bank or business is headed by a Legionnaire from
another post but has many employees living in the desired area. Also, National Headquarters can assist in
identifying names and addresses of Legionnaires belonging to department administrative posts or posts in
other communities or other states who live within the boundaries where a new post is to be located.
Another way to generate interest is to visit banks, insurance and real-estate offices, school principals, local
military recruiting centers, and local government offices. Explain what you’re attempting and why you
believe an American Legion post will be an asset to the neighborhood or community. Request the names
of any veterans who might be interested in getting in on the ground floor of a new American Legion
post. Oftentimes, this method will produce one, two or three key people who can take the lead, locally,
in forming the post. In a chain reaction of sorts, their friends and acquaintances will likely be a source of
additional members.
If the right people are recruited, only a small number are required to ensure the success of a new post.
These people will do most of the recruiting among their friends, business associates and acquaintances. In
fact, the job of finding the “nucleus” of a new post is simplified by drawing upon friends of Legionnaires in
adjacent posts or district officers.

Two important reasons to organize a post are 1) to assist veterans and local families, and 2) to make the
community or neighborhood a better place to live. However, these reasons should be spelled out in terms
of programs with meaning to area residents.
The work of dedicated Legionnaires who unselfishly devote time and effort to ensuring the success of
a new post should not go unrecognized. For this purpose, the National Membership & Post Activities
(M&PA) Committee issues “Pioneer Award” citations, which a new post can award at the time it receives
a permanent charter to the individuals or posts most instrumental in its success. The department and
districts should also give awards to those most active in establishing new posts.
Although the majority of posts are community-oriented, drawing their membership from a cross-section
of the local population and carrying on such standard American Legion activities as they are capable of,
there is room within the broader American Legion for a variety of specialized posts. Some posts limit their
membership to employees of a particular business or industry. There are doctors’ posts, nurses’ posts,
and posts made up entirely of church members or federal employees. Some posts cater to veterans of a
particular military outfit or those who were stationed in a particular country. Any area of interest or activity
with which a group of veterans identifies itself can provide the reason for an American Legion post as well
as the means of organizing it.
Step-by-step procedures
When establishing a new American Legion post, a positive attitude is essential. Remember, the post is
providing a genuine service to the community and its veterans. The following steps can serve as a guide:
1. Determine the city, town, neighborhood or other identifiable area where veteran needs are unmet by
an existing post.
2. Decide a new post will be established to serve the selected area.
3. Communicate with the department headquarters.
4. Find out the minimum number of members required by the department for a post charter.
5. Ask the department for an application for temporary charter, a copy of the Post Adjutant’s Manual and
membership applications.
6. Select two or three projects the new post can conduct to meet local needs and goals.
7. Contact community stakeholders and get “buy-in” for a new post and suggestions for eligible veterans
to become possible leaders and members.
8. Pick a key individual who can serve as the presiding person during organization. Look for leadership,
talent, enthusiasm and stature in the community.
9. Ask the department headquarters to assign a number to the post.
10. Open a bank account for the post.
11. Start signing members. (Be familiar with eligibility requirements.)
12. Set a time and place for a formational meeting.
13. Publicize the post’s formational meeting.
14. Check to make sure you have signatures of all members on the charter application and that the form is
fully completed with necessary copies.
15. Do not overwhelm members and prospective officers with literature or too much information.

Initiation and installation
This is a first-class social event that should be carefully planned with top department and district officers to
properly initiate and install new members and officers.
1. Publicize the organizational meeting.
2. Temporary officers should preside (if it is a revitalization).
3. Key Legionnaires responsible for the post should be present.
4. Initiate new members.
5. Install officers.
Direct renewal notices

Beginning in July, National Headquarters mails direct dues renewal notices to current members. The
member pays dues directly to the post. Each year, department headquarters mails a post data card to the
post asking for the post’s dues amount and the address to which the member is to mail dues. As much as
possible, posts should use a permanent mailing address – either a post office box or the address of the
post home.
Some posts have members who should not receive renewal notices. In these cases, send a letter to
department headquarters listing those members’ names, addresses and card numbers, signed by a post
official and giving the post number, and they will not receive another renewal notice. Only one amount for
post dues can be printed for each post. For example, National Headquarters cannot print “$30 until January
1, $35 after January 1.”
Posts not participating in the department program may be included in the next billing by filling out a
post data card and sending it to department headquarters. Through department participation, additional
notices are available. Scheduled renewal mailings are usually at no cost to departments or posts. Delinquent
members will receive renewal notices in March; if still delinquent in May, an additional renewal may be sent.
Online renewals
Legionnaires can renew their membership online at legion.org/renew or through their MyLegion.org
member account. Upon renewal, members can print a replacement membership card. Posts using
MyLegion.org can also see which post members have renewed online. Otherwise, posts will be notified
through their departments so that they can send membership cards.
Paid-Up-For-Life (PUFL) membership

Members pay a one-time fee or can utilize a time payment plan option to gain lifetime membership in The
American Legion. Rates and forms are available at legion.org/join/pufl for either electronic submission or
printing for mailing. Members can also purchase a PUFL through their MyLegion member account. There is
a quick link to the application at MyLegion.org for posts and departments. Members can contact National
Headquarters Customer Service at (800) 433-3318 with any questions.
Consolidated Post Reports (CPR)

Post adjutants are the key to how well The American Legion reports to the American people its actual
accomplishments for the past year.
Each post receives a three-part, snap-out Consolidated Post Report (CPR) form as the reporting year comes
to a close. The first two copies go to department headquarters, and the third copy is to be retained by the

post. All reports from a district’s posts should be sent to department headquarters on or before the June 15
deadline, or sooner if the department has set an earlier date.
The CPR form covers participation in the Legion’s programs under Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation,
National Security, Public Relations, Ceremonial Honors for Veterans, Veteran Employment & Education,
Americanism, Children & Youth, and Internal Affairs & Membership. Don’t be discouraged if the post doesn’t
have something to report in every blank on the CPR. Few posts participate in every American Legion
program. Many outstanding posts devote their energies and resources to just two or three programs or
activities. However, a form submitted with no entries will not be counted as submitted.
Information from CPR forms is frequently shared with members of Congress, giving them a snapshot of the
valuable community service provided by American Legion, Auxiliary and SAL members.
A CPR can also be submitted online through the administrator’s MyLegion.org account.
Include details in narrative

Posts should confine answers to the allotted spaces. If the post wishes to add details, include such
information in a descriptive narrative attached to the report. This can cover a post’s accomplishments in
program areas, including photos. Department Americanism and Children & Youth committees consider the
work of a post in determining its qualification for national recognition.
By mid-August, National Headquarters expects to have a completed tabulation of all reports broken down
and printed by department. The statistical totals will provide the foundation for The American Legion’s
annual report to Congress, required by the Legion’s federal charter.
Once the post has completed the CPR, it may be surprising how much the post has accomplished.
In addition to being the basis for good local news releases, the CPR also helps in the preparation of
membership promotional material. And there’s always the possibility a post’s reports will result in national
recognition for one or more of its outstanding programs.
MyLegion.org
Access to MyLegion.org is available for all members. As of April 1, 2021, all MyLegion accounts are
member accounts only. Adjutants and commanders have access to post and squadron membership
information through their MyLegion accounts in an area called My Groups. My Groups is the administrative
side of MyLegion and is designated by the office recorded on file at National Headquarters.
To register, a member should use the email address on his or her membership record. Do not use the
post or squadron email address, and do not list the same email on multiple records. Registered members
can view membership information, print membership cards and manage membership on their
My Account page.
Through My Groups, administrative officers can do the following:
Membership tools
• View and update member information for post and squadron members.
• View members renewing directly to National Headquarters.
• Renew members, add new members and transfer paying members.
• Generate and print rosters for current, expired and deceased members.
• Identify members whose addresses are flagged “undeliverable.”
• Submit a Consolidated Post Report (CPR) electronically. Restricted to adjutants.
• Find headquarters post members near you to help grow the post.

• Monitor all roster updates, including members transferring in and out.
• View leadership on file for the post and squadron.
• Print a current membership card for members.
• View members’ dues history from 2001 to present.
• Global search – Using an ID number, search members not in your post.
• Create 3x10 mailing labels.
• Project Stay Alive listing – See who has recently moved into your area.
Manuals and brochures

• Download the Officer’s Guide and Manual of Ceremonies, Post Adjutant’s Manual and other publications
essential to day-to-day operations at legion.org/publications.
• Promote The American Legion in the community using brochures explaining Temporary Financial
Assistance (TFA), Family Support Network (FSN), National Family Week and other programs.
• Take advantage of suggested speeches prepared by National Headquarters for Memorial Day, Veterans
Day, Flag Day, Pearl Harbor Day, 9/11 and The American Legion’s birthday.
Online help for officers and members is available in the Resources section at MyLegion.org.
Online membership processing

To process membership and transmittals, American Legion post and SAL squadron adjutants and
commanders must sign in to MyLegion.org and access My Groups.
The following is a brief overview of how to process membership and transmittals:
Renew members
• Click “Process Membership” in the lefthand menu.
• Click “Add/Modify Transmittal” to open the post transmittal window.
• Search the member’s name and check the box to the left of the name to renew. If no results are found,
the member is already paid or is in a pending batch. Results in this search provide only the names of
members eligible for renewal. The member is added to the transmittal batch and summary recalculates.
Click “Save.”
• Repeat this process for each member to renew. Select “Save” with each member added.
• Review the post transmittal summary, which will also update the amount due. If the dues are not
correct in the summary, contact department headquarters.
Add a new member

• Click “Add/Transfer Member” to view add/transfer scenario. A member information window will appear
where you can add as much information as possible and save. Saving adds the member to the batch.
Transfer a member
• Click “Add/Transfer Member.”

• Enter member ID number and last name (required). Click “Continue.”
• Verify member information, make any updates and save.
Finalize the transmittal

The “Save” button allows the transmittal to be saved and finalized on a later date. Transmittals are to be
finalized within 14 days from the date opened or the batch will be deleted.
Selecting “Finalize” displays members in the batch for a final review. Click “Finalize” a second time to reach
the payment information window. To view members in the transmittal batch at any time, click
“List Selected.”
Add payment information or select “Saved Bank Account” and “Pay Now.” You must check the “Authorization”
checkboxes. Then click “Pay Now.” A transmittal receipt will appear for you to print or save.
Bank information can be updated when finalizing a batch. On the transmittal payment window, select
“Update Account Information.”
Transmittal review
Review transmittal history from Group profile. Go to “Transmittal History” on the lefthand menu. A table
will display a summary of transmittals. Select the transmittal number to view members in the batch.
Important information about online membership processing

• Online processing is paid with e-check. Foreign departments have the option of using a U.S. credit card
for payment. Posts in the United States are required to use e-check.
• After finalizing the first transmittal, a hold will prevent a second submission until the first transmittal
completes. This hold is to ensure payment information is stored correctly and to prevent multiple
declines in the event the first transmittal is declined. Finalizing a transmittal prior to the first one’s
completion will result in an error message.
• Current processing time can take up to seven business days. MyLegion.org will update
transmittals once approved by the financial institution.
• There is a $10,000 batch limit per transmittal. Higher amounts should be broken down to separate
transmittals that meet the limit.
• Transmittals are to be finalized within 14 days. Members pay their dues with the expectation that
they will be removed from future renewal notices, and that they will receive their membership
cards in a timely manner along with their monthly American Legion Magazine. When posts do not
transmit in the allotted time frame, they run the risk of upsetting their members and making them
not want to belong. Open transmittals not submitted in 14 days will receive a reminder to submit
and are deleted if no action is taken. All members in the transmittal will have to be re-entered.
• Finalized batches cannot be changed. Review your transmittal carefully prior to selecting “Pay
Now.” To remove members from the transmittal, prior to finalizing, uncheck the box next to the
name and “Save.” To delete the whole transmittal, select “Delete Transmittal.”
• Renewing a member for the wrong membership year or any other incorrect transmissions are to
be reported to the department. Once a transmittal is in process, it must be completed before any
adjustments can be made.
• Declined transmittal will require new bank information to be entered prior to submitting the next
batch. This results in a new hold from submitting other batches until it completes.

• Transmittals declined are removed from “Transmittal History.” Contact the MyLegion Support Staff
at 1-833-253-9995 with questions regarding missing transmittals.
• Online help is available in MyLegion.org > Resources.
The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation (CWF)

The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation (CWF) was created in 1954 to contribute to the physical,
mental, emotional and spiritual welfare of children and youth by aiding progress in the field of child welfare
through dissemination of knowledge about research, studies, surveys, projects, or by supporting programs
and activities benefiting the welfare of children and youth.
CWF’s primary source of revenue is members of The American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary, Sons
of The American Legion, and Eight and Forty. It also receives support from all levels of the organization –
local, state and national.
To provide an incentive for giving on an annual basis, CWF has the Cornerstone Gift Club, which offers
awards to individuals for cumulative donations made during the current contribution year (June 1-May 31):
Cumulative donations Award

Century Club $100 Gold pin with amethyst
Foundation Partner $250 Gold pin with blue sapphire
President’s Circle $500 Gold pin with one diamond
Foundation Ambassadors $1,000 Gold pin with five diamonds
The “Children First” Gift Club recognizes posts for their cumulative donations:
Caretaker $500 Bronze plaque

Advocate $750 Silver plaque
Guardian $1,000 Gold plaque
Contributions
• All contributions are tax-deductible. Every check or money order ($5 or more) received is
acknowledged by official receipt, which should be held for tax purposes.
• All contributions go directly into CWF. All overhead expenses are covered by separate funding.
• All cash contributions are acknowledged regardless of amount. Do not send cash by mail.
• Contributions can be made directly to CWF. They do not have to go through department headquarters.
• Accurate records are kept of states, organizations and individuals sending in contributions.
Correspondence is kept on file for one year, but computer records are maintained.
• The department gets credit for the post’s support on CWF’s national report to Congress.
Suggestions
• When a post or unit member passes away, suggest contributions be sent to CWF in their memory.
• Make CWF a regular part of annual post activities by conducting a fundraiser.
• Mention CWF at post and unit meetings to make others aware of what it is and how it helps children.
• Start a collection of plaques to display in the post home.

Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA)
Since its establishment in 1925, The American Legion’s Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) program has
awarded cash grants to minor children of current active-duty military personnel and American Legion
members. These grants help families in need meet the cost of shelter, food, utilities and health expenses,
thereby keeping the child or children in a more stable environment.
Who is eligible for a grant?

The minor child must not be older than 17, or 20 if still enrolled in high school or is physically handicapped.
The minor child must be the biological child, stepchild, or in the legal custody of, a qualifying veteran. A
qualifying veteran is defined as a member of the U.S. Armed Forces serving on federal orders current under
Title 10 of the U.S. Code, inclusive of all components, or any veteran possessing an up-to-date membership
in The American Legion. Active-duty applicants can be considered without being a member of The
American Legion. A single onetime non-repayable TFA grant of up to $1,500 will be permitted for the minor
child(ren) of a qualifying veteran.
No child is considered eligible for TFA until a complete investigation is conducted at the post or
department level, a legitimate family need is determined, and all other available assistance resources have
been utilized or exhausted. Additionally, the TFA application must originate and be filled out by someone at
the local level.
How to apply
Contact the local American Legion post or department (state) headquarters.
National Emergency Fund (NEF)

The National Emergency Fund (NEF) program is one of the best examples of “veterans helping veterans”
through The American Legion. Since the NEF was re-established in 1989, the no-strings- attached disaster
relief program has provided more than $9 million in direct financial assistance to thousands of Legionnaires
and their families recovering from declared natural disasters.
Every post officer should understand how to prepare for disasters so that the post can provide immediate
and responsive care to members affected.
NEF eligibility
There are no premiums to pay into the NEF program. Rather, grants are made to Legionnaires, SAL
members and posts in need. The only requirements on their behalf are:
• Must be a current-year paid member of The American Legion or SAL
• Must be a member in good standing with their post or squadron
• Must have been a current member prior to the date of disaster
Only one grant per household can be considered. The NEF does not cover damages to automobiles,
outbuildings (such as sheds and barns), and apartments or businesses. Nor are NEF grants to take the place
of, or supplement, insurance compensation. They are intended solely to assist members if they lose, or are
displaced from, their primary homes due to a declared natural disaster. Subsequently, incidents stemming
from accidental fires in the home or faulty structural damages do not fall within the confines of the NEF.
Posts are eligible to receive grants from this fund, if damaged by declared natural disaster. The application
must be supported by substantiating documentation that the post will cease to perform programs and
activities in the community due to losses sustained.

How to apply
NEF grant applications may be obtained from department headquarters or National Headquarters at
(317) 630-1330, or online at legion.org/emergency. The turnaround time for a grant depends on how
soon the completed application is received at National Headquarters in Indianapolis.
At the very minimum, the NEF application should include:
• Copies of lodging, food, gas, clothing receipts
• Copies of estimates of damage
• Photographs of the damage
• Description of loss
• List of out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a result of displacement from primary residence
Failure to include this information could delay the grant. Supporting documentation cannot be returned.
Once the grant application is completed, it must be forwarded to department headquarters, where it
is reviewed and damages are assessed. The department commander and adjutant determine the grant
amount, which is not to exceed $3,000 for individuals and $10,000 for posts. They sign the application and
forward it to National Headquarters, which makes final approval. National Headquarters issues a check to
the member or post and forwards it to department headquarters for distribution.
All contributions made to the NEF are distributed directly to the Legionnaire or SAL member in need. There
are no administrative or fulfillment costs. To learn how to donate, visit legion.org/emergency.
Sons of The American Legion (SAL)

All male descendants, adopted sons and stepsons of members of The American Legion, along with male
descendants of veterans who died in service during World War l or between Dec. 7, 1941, and a date set
forth in Article IV, Section l, of the National Constitution of The American Legion, or who died subsequent
to their honorable discharge from such service, are eligible for SAL membership.
New members should be initiated with full ceremony. A member’s first impression is often the most lasting.
Distribute copies of the SAL Squadron Handbook when initiating new candidates. Two copies per squadron
– one for the squadron commander, one for the squadron adjutant – are available from the department.
Purchase additional copies from Emblem Sales at (888) 453-4466 or online at emblem.legion.org.
American Legion Auxiliary

The mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice
of those who serve by enhancing the lives of veterans, the military, and their families, both at home and
abroad. Through various programs, the Auxiliary also educates citizens, mentors youth, and promotes
patriotism, citizenship, peace and security.
Membership in the American Legion Auxiliary shall be limited to:
1. Grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of members of
The American Legion; and,
2. Grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and
women who served in either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918, and after
December 7, 1941, who, being a citizen of the United States at the time of their entry therein served

on active duty in the armed forces of any of the governments associated with the United States during
either eligibility period and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge; and
3. Grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and
women who were in the U.S. Armed Forces during either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to
November 11, 1918, and after December 7, 1941, who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
during either eligibility period and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge; and
4. Those women who of their own right are eligible for membership in The American Legion.*
• A person who is eligible for American Legion membership is eligible to join the American Legion
Auxiliary regardless of whether or not they are a member of The American Legion. However, eligibility
of the relatives (sister, mother, direct descendants) and/or spouse depends upon her membership in
The American Legion.
• If an applicant is joining on their own service record, the Auxiliary unit to which they are applying for
membership will be responsible for verification of eligibility for membership.
• If an applicant is joining on the basis of her relationship to a member of The American Legion, an officer
of the post to which that relative belongs must certify the Legionnaire’s membership in that post.
• If an applicant wishes to join a unit or a post other than the one to which their Legionnaire relative
belongs, the unit to which that person is applying for membership should check the eligibility with the
post of that relative.
• Under no circumstances, when eligibility is to be based on relationship to a deceased veteran, should

an adjutant certify an application for membership without checking the veteran’s discharge papers
to determine that the dates of service fall within the Legion’s eligibility time periods. The deceased
veteran need not have been a Legionnaire for the applicant to qualify for Auxiliary membership.
* A person who is eligible for American Legion membership is eligible to join the American Legion Auxiliary regardless of whether or not they
are a member of The American Legion. However, eligibility of the relatives (sister, mother, direct descendants) and/or spouse depends upon
her membership in The American Legion.
The following documents are acceptable to verify membership eligibility in the American Legion Auxiliary:
• DD 214 discharge papers (not issued until after the Korean War)
• Official military orders
• Official military service citations/awards
• Letters related to the veteran’s military service (must be on official government letterhead).
• Certificate from the VA records center in St. Louis
• Data from the back of older discharges
Key elements to review on any documentation, whether discharge papers or military orders, are dates of
service and the character of the service (i.e., honorable, or dishonorable). The American Legion does not
do research to verify the details behind a DD 214 unless it appears to be falsified. Any falsified DD 214 or
military orders should be referred to the FBI. If the discharge is listed as “non-characterized,” refer it to the
American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters executive director, who will ask the counsel general to
review the coding listed.
Information on a veteran’s service record can be obtained by contacting the National Archives and Records
Administration at 1-866-272-6272 or www.archives.gov/veterans.

SECTION 2
Manual of Ceremonies
Adopted by The American Legion in 1921
Much of the information provided in the Manual of Ceremonies has its roots in long-time tradition and
usage. The practices adopted by The American Legion may not be the same as those used by other groups
or organizations, but it does not mean The American Legion is right and others are wrong.
1. The ceremonial services of The American Legion must be conducted with the solemnity befitting the
dignity of this organization.
2. No one shall be admitted during opening, initiation or closing ceremonies of a meeting.
3. A member entering the hall after the meeting has begun shall advance to the center of the room,
salute the colors and be seated.
4. Any member desiring to be excused from the hall while the meeting is in progress – except during a
prayer, the obligation or period of silence – shall advance to the center of the room, salute the colors and
leave.
5. All officers are instructed to memorize their parts between the dates of their election and installation.
It shall be the duty of each officer to memorize that portion of the ceremony assigned to that particular
office, and the printed ceremony should not be read.
6. The national colors and post flag, when in position, should be in position at either side and just in
advance of the commander’s station. The national colors are on the right of the commander and the post
colors on the left when facing the audience, even though the commander is on a platform and the flags
are posted on the ground level.
7. Each officer shall be equipped with the official cap and proper official badge of the respective office.
Badges and official caps may be purchased in sets by the post or by the individual officer through
Emblem Sales.
8. Legionnaires standing in silent tribute in memory of departed individuals during meetings or

ceremonies will face the U.S. flag. According to Resolution No. 33, passed by the National Executive
Committee in May 1971, The American Legion “shall, at functions within Legion buildings and at all
levels, cease all activities whatsoever” for a period of 60 seconds as a tribute to individuals who have
passed on and in honor of those now serving. The minute of silence shall be preceded by an appropriate
announcement and message, if desired.
9. This Manual of Ceremonies is designed with the idea of flexibility and may be adapted to conform to
requirements covering all divisions of The American Legion. Therefore, whenever necessary, the words
“post,” “county,” “area,” “district,” “division,” “department” or “national” may be inserted to fit a specific
occasion.
10. Per Resolution No. 8, passed by the National Executive Committee in October 2016, every
department, district/county and post is strongly urged to conduct official meetings in English – not only
because it is The American Legion’s position that English should be the official language of the United
States of America, but also to ensure that every Legionnaire and veteran is afforded the opportunity
to understand, participate in and be informed about every subject that arises in an American Legion
meeting or is part of any official correspondence or published media.

Plan of post meeting room
This arrangement of a post meeting room is practical for the conduct of regular post meetings, permitting
the post a great deal of flexibility in arrangement to its particular needs and/or physical limitations.
American Legion Emblem
Adjutant/Finance
Chaplain Commander
Officer
National Colors Post Standard
Second Vice
First Vice Commander
Commander
Membership
Sergeant-at-Arms Past Commander

Plan of post meeting room for special ceremonies
For initiation of new members or installation of post officers, it is suggested that the post meeting room
be arranged as shown above. The American Legion emblem should be in colors and about 20 inches in
diameter. If made of glass, it should be illuminated from within, or by a light set above it if made of wood,
cardboard or metal. The emblem should be illuminated at all times during all meetings. Emblems may be
purchased through Emblem Sales.
American Legion Emblem
Adjutant/Finance
Chaplain Commander
Officer
National Colors Post Standard

First Vice Commander
Commander
Second Vice
Membership Membership
Past Commander
Sergeant-at-Arms

Wearing the American Legion cap, uniform and regalia
1. The American Legion cap, uniform or regalia should be worn by its members only when in attendance
at official Legion meetings or ceremonies, as official guests at patriotic or other civil functions, or by
individuals when officially representing The American Legion on public occasions. For all ceremonies, the
uniforms adopted by a department are recommended. However, an official American Legion cap, dark
blue or black civilian coat, dark trousers, white shirt with black four-in-hand tie or nice blouse, black shoes
and socks make an attractive uniform. A Legionnaire is considered to be in uniform if wearing an official
American Legion cap. Therefore, it is not proper to wear a Legion cap while eating a meal at an official
American Legion or civic luncheon or dinner.
2. The cap should be worn in a place of worship only by the guard of honor, color guard and commander
of the same while in marching order or standing guard. When seated, the cap should be removed.
3. Posts marching in formation into a place of worship should uncover at the door, hold the cap with the
right hand over the heart until arriving in the pews and commanded to take seats, and remain uncovered
during the entire service. At the close of the service, upon command, the post shall rise, hold the cap with
right hand over the hearts, march out of the place of worship, and recover after marching through the
door. Note: The cap should be held over the heart when approaching the casket and is not at any time
worn in a place of worship except by the guard of honor, color guard or commander of same while in
marching order or standing guard.
4. Legionnaires not in formation will uncover upon entering the place of worship, remain uncovered
during the entire service and re-cover after leaving the place of worship.
5. At the graveside, the cap should be held in the right hand over the heart during the entire service. In
cold and inclement weather, the cap should not be removed.
6. In meetings, the cap should be worn except during the Pledge of Allegiance, prayer and while
standing in silent reverence in memory of departed individuals, when it should be held with the right
hand over the heart.
7. A Legionnaire wearing a cap should behave in proper accordance as to salutes, etc., the same as if
wearing a military uniform. If not wearing a cap, observe ordinary rules of etiquette for civilian dress.
8. Female Legionnaires should wear their caps in the manner prescribed for women in the armed forces.
This is suitable for most situations, but taste and common sense should prevail. By American Legion
tradition, a female Legionnaire may leave her cap on during the Pledge of Allegiance, the national
anthem, prayer and meals.
9. Legionnaires wishing to attach decorations and/or other official insignia to their caps are advised of a
National Executive Committee resolution on the subject, excerpted below.
Official American Legion caps

The following regulations standardize the use of lettering, insignia, etc., on the official American Legion cap,
as based on Resolution No. 58, adopted by the National Executive Committee, April 30-May 1, 1964.
Post caps (members and officers) – All blue, piped in gold and lettered in gold with optional basic
lettering (Style 1 or Style 2), and additional lettering and restrictions as indicated below:
(a) Style 1 – Post numerals at right front between piping and front crease. Department name in full on
left side beneath emblem. Lettering on emblem side to be in straight line. Example: “20” (at right front) –
“Maryland” (on left side beneath emblem).

(b) Style 2 – Post numerals at right front between piping and front crease. Town name in full and
department abbreviated on left side beneath emblem. Lettering on emblem side to be in straight line.
Example: “20” (at right front) – “Dallas, TX” (on left side beneath emblem).
(c) Style 2 – Shall not be used when the post town is not physically located within the recognized
geographic and/or postal boundaries of the department of which the post is a member. Example: Stuttgart,
Germany, a part of the Department of France. Such a post may place its location and country on the right
side of the cap, if desired. Example: “8” (at right front) – “France” (on left side beneath emblem) – if desired,
“Munich, Germany” (on right side).
(d) Where additional lettering is desired, it must be on the right side of the cap. Lettering restricted to name
of post, such as “J.S. Jones,” or officer title, such as “Commander” or “Past Adjutant.” Where present or past
officer cap insignia or badges are used in place of embroidered titles, these must be on right side of cap.
(e) Consecutive membership insignia, membership stars and/or decorations (authorized American Legion
or military services) must be attached to the right side of cap. Fraternal or civil organization insignia cannot
be used on American Legion caps.
(f) Names or nicknames of individual members cannot be used on caps.
(g) An individual member placing an order directly with Emblem Sales must provide the member ID
number.
Restrictions
(a) The left side (emblem side) of any American Legion cap cannot contain other than the official American
Legion emblem and lettering as set forth previously in this resolution for post, county, district, department
or national caps.
(b) No member of any organization, such as drum and bugle corps, bands and so forth, sponsored by any
post or intermediate organizations between the department and post levels, or by any department, shall
wear the official caps having the color, or combination of colors, authorized for the sole use of county,
district, department or national officers, when the members of uniformed groups are not appearing in the
full uniform of their group.
Official badges
Campaign ribbons, medals and official American Legion badges shall be worn three inches below the
point of the shoulder and above the left breast pocket, centered. However, medals and ribbons are not to
be worn together. Badges of other fraternal organizations are not to be worn on uniforms except when
attending functions of such organizations. No other badges or insignia are to be worn.
Official badges consist of the Legion emblem suspended by an American Legion ribbon from a bar
naming the office held: commander, past commander, vice commander, chaplain, adjutant, finance officer,
sergeant-at-arms, judge advocate, service officer, athletic officer, historian and executive committee.
The metal ornaments for the ribbons should be pinback so they can be passed from officer to officer at
installation.
How to organize a ceremonial team

STEP 1 The post commander appoints a captain to organize a team. It will be the captain’s duty to recruit,
train and assume complete responsibility for organizing and training the team. Discretion should be used
in selecting team members. They should make the Manual of Ceremonies their American Legion bible. Much
of the team’s success depends upon selection of a competent captain and sergeant-at-arms. The team will
look to these officers for leadership. The team captain and members should be of commanding appearance

and personality, and able to impress upon candidates and audience the importance and solemnity of the
ceremony.
STEP 2 Permanent parts should be assigned and members instructed to memorize these parts. Six
members will be required for the initiation team. In calling a tryout or audition meeting, the best qualified
should be selected. Each candidate should read part of the manual to denote clarity of voice, enunciation,
expression and meaning. Additional candidates should be assigned roles as substitutes or stand-ins for
regular members.
STEP 3 Train the team through practice. Teams should practice an entire ceremony at each meeting,
including marching into the hall, military movements on the floor, presentation and introduction of the
team, the posting of members to their respective stations, and proper handling of initiation candidates for
initiation.
STEP 4 The team’s first appearance should be on home grounds. Actual initiation of new members will
usually give the new team confidence to present their work at other local posts.
Color guard procedure

Advancing colors
A color guard of at least four forms at the rear of the meeting room in a rank or file, whichever best suit the
occasion, facing the commander’s station.
In forming a rank, the national colors are to the right of the post colors and the two guards are on the
respective flanks. In forming a file, the national colors are second in file, preceded by the rifle guard and
followed respectively by the post colors and rifle guard.
To properly form the guard, the following sequence of commands may be used: “Fall in – dress right dress –
ready front” – “right (or left) shoulder arms” – color bearers should assume the position of carry or any other
suitable position at this command – “forward march.” These commands put the guard in a forward motion.
Upon arriving at a position from two to 12 feet in front of the commander’s station, the following
commands should be issued: “Guard halt – post colors.” The bearer of the nation’s colors steps in the
direction of the flag receptacle to the right of the commander’s station, halting and facing front upon
arriving in front of same. The bearer of the post’s colors steps in the direction of the flag receptacle to the
left of the commander’s station. The rifle guards assume the position of “port arms,” which is a position of
readiness. The next command should be “place colors.” Colors are placed by stepping forward with one foot
and placing the colors in their receptacles, making sure the top ornament on each respective flag is facing
the assemblage. The color bearers then return to the position of attention. The next command should be
“present arms.” Rifle guards should render the prescribed salute with their pieces, and color bearers should
render a right-hand salute. (The post’s color bearer should either face the national colors or turn his or her
head toward the U.S. flag while saluting.)
The next command sequence should be “right shoulder arms” (color bearers recovering from hand salute
on same) and “assemble march” (color bearers may face the center and step off respectively in the direction
from which they came and assume their positions in the formation facing the rear of the meeting room).
Rifle guards may execute an about-face on command and be prepared to move out on the next command
with guard intact.
The next command should be “forward march,” and upon arriving at the starting point, the guard should be
halted with the command of “guard halt.” Then the guard may be commanded to “fall out.”

Retrieving colors
Retrieving the colors may be executed in nearly the same manner except substituting the command
“retrieve colors” for “post colors,” and giving the command “present arms” upon the color bearers’ arrival in
front of their respective colors (color bearers will salute at that time).
The next commands are “right shoulder arms” (color bearers assume the position of attention) and “take
colors” (color bearers put one foot forward to take the colors and assume the position of attention, after
securing the same). The next command should be “assemble, march” (color bearers execute the same march
as in returning from posting). Rifle guards will execute an about-face after the colors have arrived at their
respective positions. The guard may be retired in the same manner as in posting, with the exception of the
last command, “Dismissed.” The above commands may be used in either rank or file formation.
Consider adding more color and ceremony to the posting and retiring of the colors by including a bugler.
In posting, “To the Colors” may be sounded immediately after the color guard commander orders “present
arms.” In retrieving, “Retreat” may be sounded immediately after the command “present arms.”
REGULAR MEETING
Opening ceremony
All officers should be in uniform, each wearing an official Legion cap and the official badge of office. The
commander shall announce the meeting is about to open. Officers shall take their stations. The commander
shall seat those present with one rap of the gavel, and the sergeant-at-arms shall close the doors of the
meeting hall. The commander shall then give three raps of the gavel, and all who are present shall stand at
attention.
Post commander: “The color bearers will advance the colors.”
As the color bearers start to advance, the commander gives the command to salute.
Post commander: “Hand salute.”
If a bugler is available, sound “To the Colors.” At its conclusion, the commander gives the command, “Two.”
If no bugler is present, the command “Two” is given immediately after the colors have been posted.
Post commander: “The chaplain will offer prayer.”
Post commander: “All members/guests in attendance shall remain standing with their cap removed and
placed over the heart from the opening prayer, through the POW/MIA ceremony, and concluding with the
Pledge of Allegiance.”
In place of the following prayer, the chaplain may deliver one appropriate for the setting.
Chaplain: “Almighty God, Father of all mankind and Judge over nations, we pray Thee to guide our work in
this meeting and in all our days. Send Thy peace to our nation and to all nations. Hasten the fulfillment of
Thy promise of peace that shall have no end.
“We pray for those who serve the people and guard the public welfare, that by Thy blessing they may
be enabled to discharge their duties honestly and well. We pray that by Thy help they may observe the
strictest justice, keep alight the fires of freedom, strive earnestly for the spirit of democracy, and preserve
untarnished our loyalty to our country and to Thee. Finally, O God of mercy, we ask Thy blessing and
comfort for those who are suffering mental and physical disability. Cheer them and bring them the
blessings of health and happiness. Amen.”

POW/MIA Empty Chair
This ceremony is a suggested outline that can be followed when an American Legion organization wants to
call attention to Americans still unaccounted for from all wars and conflicts. Resolution No. 288, adopted at
the Legion’s 67th National Convention, calls for designating an empty chair at all official American Legion
meetings as a continual physical symbol of POW/MIAs and the cause for which we stand, namely their
return or full accounting.
Post commander: “A POW/MIA empty chair is placed at all official meetings of The American Legion as a
physical symbol of many American POW/MIAs still unaccounted for from all wars and conflicts involving
the United States of America. This is a reminder for all of us to spare no effort to secure the release of any
American prisoners from captivity, the repatriation of the remains of those who died bravely in defense of
liberty, and a full accounting of those missing. Let us rededicate ourselves to this vital endeavor!”
Post commander: “Place the POW/MIA flag on the empty chair.”
The first and second vice commanders, or other designated individuals, approach the empty chair carrying a
folded POW/MIA flag. Upon reaching the chair, they reverently unfold the flag and drape it over the chair with
the crest facing the membership. After the meeting is concluded, the POW/MIA flag should be refolded and
stored for future use.
The commander (or appropriate official) leads the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance. Legionnaires will
remove their caps. The commander may also direct the singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one
Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
Regular meeting opening resumes after the Pledge of Allegiance.
Post commander: “Everyone will re-cover.”
The commander and membership recite the preamble of the Constitution of The American Legion slowly and
in unison, as follows:
“For God and Country, we associate ourselves together for the following purposes:
“To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America;
“To maintain law and order;
“To foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism;
“To preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in all wars;
“To inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation;
“To combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses;
“To make right the master of might;
“To promote peace and good will on earth;
“To safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy;
“To consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.”
The commander seats members with one rap of the gavel.

Post commander: “I now declare __________________ Post No. ________, Department of
___________________, regularly convened.”
The order of business for post meetings shall be:
a. Roll call to determine if quorum is present
b. Reading of minutes of previous meeting
c. Introduction of guests and prospective and new members
d. Committee reports
e. Balloting on applications
f. Sick call, relief and employment
g. Post service officer’s report
h. Unfinished business
i. Initiation of candidates
j. New business and correspondence
k. Memorial to a departed post member
l. The good of The American Legion
The membership shall be permitted to make suggestions of any kind, character or description, save religion or
partisan politics.
POW/MIA remembrance service

The following is a suggested service for American Legion meetings, banquets, luncheons or memorial
gatherings with a POW/MIA flag draped over an empty chair. This service can be adopted or modified for
your own use. Members should remove their caps.
“Those who have served, and those currently serving in the uniformed services of the United States, are
ever mindful that the sweetness of enduring peace has always been tainted by the bitterness of personal
sacrifice. We are compelled to never forget that while we enjoy our daily pleasures, there are others who
have endured and may still be enduring the agonies of pain, deprivation and imprisonment.
“Before we begin our activities, we pause to recognize our POWs and MIAs.
“We call your attention to this small table, which occupies a place of dignity and honor. It is set for one,
symbolizing the fact that members of our armed forces are missing from our ranks. They are referred to as
POWs and MIAs.
“We call them comrades. They are unable to be with their loved ones and families, so we join to pay
humble tribute to them, and to bear witness to their continued absence.
“The table is small, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner, alone against his or her suppressors.
“The tablecloth is white, symbolic of the purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms.
“The single rose in the vase signifies the blood they may have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of
our beloved United States of America. This rose also reminds us of the family and friends of our missing
comrades who keep faith while awaiting their return.

“The red ribbon on the vase represents an unyielding determination for a proper accounting of our
comrades who are not among us.
“A slice of lemon on the plate reminds us of their bitter fate.
“The salt sprinkled on the plate reminds us of the countless fallen tears of families as they wait.
“The glass is inverted. They cannot toast with us at this time.
“The chair is empty. They are NOT here.
“The candle is reminiscent of the light of hope, which lives in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away
from their captors, to the open arms of a grateful nation.
“The American flag reminds us that many of them may never return — and have paid the supreme
sacrifice to insure our freedom.
“Let us pray to the Supreme Commander that all of our comrades will soon be back within our ranks.
“Let us remember — and never forget their sacrifice. May God forever watch over them and protect them
and their families.”
Closing ceremony
Post commander: “Is there any further business to come before the meeting? If not, the chaplain will lead
us in memorial service.”
The commander gives three raps of the gavel, and the membership rises, uncovers and stands in silence.
Chaplain: “Our Heavenly Father, we deem this a fitting time to pay our respects to our departed comrades.
As we stand with bowed heads in reverence to them, let us remember the good deeds they accomplished.
Let us revere them as good soldiers who fought the good fight in a just cause. Let us silently pray for peace,
the peace that passes all understanding. And let us in mind and soul consecrate our hearts and lives to the
real America, the land of the free and the home of the brave, the America worth fighting for. As we stand in
silence to our departed comrades, may we sincerely say, ‘May their souls rest in peace.’ Let us also remember
the POWs and the MIAs still unaccounted for from the wars and conflicts. Amen.”
Post commander: “Cover.”
Sounding taps will add greatly to the solemnity of the ritual. The first stanza of “America,” “My Country, ’Tis of
Thee” or another patriotic selection may be sung by the audience.
Post commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, recover the POW/MIA flag.”
The sergeant-at-arms steps forward, picks up the POW-MIA flag off the chair, folds the flag, steps back and
places the POW-MIA flag on the table in front of the commander.
“Till we meet again let us remember our obligation to our country can be fulfilled only by the faithful
performance of all duties of citizenship. Let service to the community, state and nation be ever a main
objective of The American Legion and its members. Let us be ever watchful of the honor of our country, our
organization and ourselves, that nothing shall swerve us from the path of Justice, Freedom and Democracy.
The color bearers will retire the flag of our country.”
As the color bearers retrieve the colors, the commander shall give the command to salute.
Post commander: “Hand salute.”
As the color bearers reach the rear of the meeting hall, the commander says, “Two.”

Post commander: “I now declare this meeting of ___________________ Post No._____, The American
Legion, Department of ____________ adjourned.”
The commander gives one rap of the gavel.
INITIATION OF NEW MEMBERS

Regular form
Initiation of new members is an important post function. They need to be shown, officially and formally,
that they’re indeed a part of The American Legion. They deserve the courtesy of being introduced to the
post that has accepted their membership applications and dues payments.
Whether conducted by the post officers or an established ritual team, an initiation ceremony should
happen at least once a year. Each officer should learn his or her part of the ceremony to be able to deliver
it without reference to the printed text. Each initiation officer should wear the regulation American Legion
cap and badge of office (see pages 38-39).
The sergeant-at-arms is responsible for preparing the hall or meeting room for the initiation, and should see
to it that the following items, which are presented to new members during the ceremony, are on hand in
sufficient quantity: small U.S. flags, American Legion lapel pins and flag etiquette booklets. All are available
through Emblem Sales online at emblem.legion.org. In addition, the sergeant-at-arms, depending on
the format your post chooses for this ceremony, may set up the following items: poppies (real or imitation)
in a neat arrangement in a vase at either the station of the second vice commander or near the podium
identifying the station of the commander; a gavel bell at the station of the past commander or near the
podium of the commander; and a miniature stand with the U.S. flag and the Legion colors at the station of
the first vice commander or near the podium.
This ceremony is designed to conform to the floor plan of a post meeting room as illustrated on page
39. New members are escorted by the sergeant-at-arms to the various officers’ stations for instruction.
However, the ceremony may be altered to conform to the meeting room layout as illustrated, with new
members standing in the area between the stations of the first and second vice commanders. The ritual
may be modified so that initiation officers deliver their respective instructions to the new members from
the podium.
The new members for initiation will assemble at the back of the meeting room or, preferably, in a nearby
room immediately prior to the ceremony.
The commander shall call the meeting to order with one rap of the gavel.
Post commander: “We shall now proceed to the initiation of new members. In order that we may impress
upon these new members the serious import and sacred obligations of American Legion membership, all
present will conduct themselves in a manner befitting such ceremony. The sergeant-at-arms will present
those ready for initiation.”
The sergeant-at-arms stands at a designated station and salutes the U.S. flag.
Sergeant-at-arms: “Commander, there are (number) veterans who have been accepted for membership in
The American Legion and are awaiting the obligation.”
Post commander: “As these new members have been accepted for membership, we shall proceed with the
initiation. Sergeant-at-arms, escort the new members into the hall and place them properly before the flag.”
The sergeant-at-arms escorts the new members to the appropriate location.
Sergeant-at-arms: “Commander, I present these new members for initiation into The American Legion.”

The commander gives three raps of the gavel.
Post commander: “The chaplain will offer prayer.”
The chaplain steps to the right of the U.S. flag and faces the new members.
Chaplain: “Let us pray. Our Heavenly Father, grant that we may approach this ceremony with clean hearts.
Keep us ever mindful of our obligation to those who have made the supreme sacrifice for our country and
her noble purpose. We humbly pray that your love may find its way into all hearts and souls that they shall
never again seek occasion of conflict, but live in peace and harmony, laboring for the broader benefits of
humankind. You have blessed us with the opportunity to serve our country in her hour of need. We pray
that you would grant us continued opportunities to serve in time of peace as we served in time of war.
Bless The American Legion and those here who await its obligation, that together we may advance the
sacred cause of justice, freedom and democracy – that together we may serve you and our country in
undivided loyalty. Amen.”
The chaplain returns to the designated station. Members are seated by one rap of the gavel, and the post
commander addresses the new members.
Post commander: “The American Legion cherishes four great principles: justice, freedom, democracy
and loyalty. Its pledge is service to veterans, especially the disabled, the distressed, and their widows and
orphans. The cause of service to community, state and nation is jealously guarded, and the opportunity to
serve is offered to all members. Before you are asked to assume the responsibility of membership in The
American Legion by accepting its obligations, you will hear an explanation of the principles and symbols of
our organization.
“Sergeant-at-arms, conduct the new members to the second vice commander for instruction in justice.”
The sergeant-at-arms escorts the new members to the designated position, facing the second vice
commander’s station. The second vice commander rises.
Second vice commander: “Justice makes no distinction of persons. It favors neither high nor low,
neither rich nor poor, neither the classes nor the masses. Justice is the guiding star of life. It transcends all
boundaries of race and creed. Justice for our sick and disabled veterans has always been, and must forever
be, the first concern of The American Legion. The rehabilitation of those men and women who valiantly
offered their all in response to their country’s call, the relief of those who have suffered by that sacrifice, is
our hallowed duty. Legionnaires must be ever vigilant that none shall feel the injustice of work undone. The
American Legion is ever mindful of its duty to the nation, and the nation’s duty to those who answered its
call in time of war.
“This display of poppies, the official flower of The American Legion, serves as a memorial to those who
gave their lives so that justice might prevail. Remember their sacrifice! May your actions forever bring credit
upon The American Legion, an organization which is a living memorial to the dead heroes who fought that
justice, the divine right of man, might ever endure.
“Sergeant-at-arms, conduct the new members to the past commander for instruction in freedom.”
The sergeant-at-arms escorts the new members to the designated position, facing the past commander’s
station. The past commander rises.
Past commander: “Freedom is an ideal of surpassing strength; it is the power of self-determination. For
freedom, Americans throughout the years willingly have fought and died. In the War of the Revolution,
freedom was won for the people of the United States. In the wars of the 20th century, the torch of freedom
led and inspired the American forces through the darkness of conflict.

“The American Legion is dedicated to the concept of freedom from injustice to the children and youth
of our nation. No nation can long endure if it fails to care for its future citizens. The American Legion has
achieved recognition as a national leader on behalf of the nation’s children and youth that they may know
that freedom from want, ignorance, and tyranny are God-given rights to be preserved at whatever the cost.
The American Legion staunchly defends the principle of equal opportunity for all in a country where all
may enjoy the blessings of freedom.
“This bell typifies the famous Liberty Bell, which in bold and clarion tones rang out the news of freedom
and the birth of a new nation. It is here to remind you that America will remain the land of the free only as
long as America is the home of the brave. I give you the American flag, the emblem of freedom, and a flag
etiquette booklet.”
The past commander hands each new member a small U.S. flag and flag etiquette booklet.
Post commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, conduct the new members to the first vice commander for
instruction in democracy and its meaning to America.”
The sergeant-at-arms escorts the new members to the designated position, facing the first vice commander’s
station. The first vice commander rises.
First vice commander: “Democracy is government of the people, by the people, and for the people.
Democracy is American in principle and universal in appeal. It offers a voice in government to each citizen.
Of its benefits, each citizen may share.
“Democracy finds expression with The American Legion. Within our meeting halls, distinction of rank is
unknown. All Legionnaires are equal in a common service. Each Legionnaire is permitted a free voice, but
not a voice so free as to transcend the limits of liberty.
“Democracy can exist only where all do their share, where each citizen knows and accepts the responsibility
of service to community, state and nation. Legionnaires must encourage the exercise of franchise among
our citizens as a means of preserving and perpetuating our precious heritage. Yes, democracy, to The
American Legion, is real. It carries a responsibility which each Legionnaire should accept.
Here the first vice commander refers to either a miniature stand of colors consisting of the U.S. flag and
American Legion colors at the designated station or the post’s set of colors at the front of the room, depending
on the initiation format of used.
First vice commander: “These flags symbolize America, the home of democracy and The American Legion.
The red stripes of our country’s flag represent the valor, the zeal and the passion of those who defended
the noble cause of individual dignity; the white stripes signify hope, purity and integrity. The stars of white
on a field of blue proclaim that the heights of pure democracy reach to the very stars of the heavens. This
blue and gold emblem against a background of blue reminds us constantly of our golden opportunities
as Legionnaires to promote and protect the principle of democracy in a government so dearly won and so
valiantly maintained.”
“Sergeant-at-arms, conduct the new members to the commander for instruction in loyalty and its
application in The American Legion.”
The sergeant-at-arms escorts the new members to the designated position, facing the commander’s station.
The commander rises.
Post commander: “Loyalty is an attribute of The American Legion, as it is the first virtue of the person
serving in the uniform of our country. It is as dear as justice is desirable, as freedom is glorious, as
democracy is practical. Loyalty will lead us to defend our organization in all that is right, and to do our
utmost that we shall be right. Loyalty to our country is the basis of true Americanism. Disloyalty and
oppression are foreign to our ideals; nor do we tolerate any form of radicalism or violence seeking to

destroy our form of government. The Constitution of the United States of America, the bulwark of our
liberties and guarantor of our rights, is sacred to the Legionnaire. Be ever loyal to that which has established
your freedoms and defined your responsibilities. Understand The American Legion is in no sense a military
organization. Because its membership is drawn from every race, religion, occupational pursuit and political
persuasion, The American Legion is obligated to strict neutrality on all questions concerning religion,
politics, and industrial strife. You have received instruction in The American Legion’s four basic attributes –
justice, freedom, democracy and loyalty – and its great principles of service. Are you now ready and willing
to obligate yourself as expressed in the Preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion? If so, you will
each answer, ‘I am.’”
Candidates: “I am.”
All new members must answer, signifying they are willing to take the obligation.
Post commander: “All present will stand at attention during the obligation.”
The commander gives three raps of the gavel, steps to the right and immediately next to the U.S. flag, raises his
or her right hand, and addresses the new members.
Post commander: “Raise your right hand and repeat after me: ‘I, (here give your name) / do solemnly
pledge / to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America / to maintain law and order
/ to foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism / to preserve the memories and incidents
of our associations in all wars / to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and
nation / to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses / to make right the master of might
/ to promote peace and good will on earth / to safeguard and transmit to posterity / the principles of
justice, freedom and democracy / to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship / by our devotion to mutual
helpfulness / to all of which I pledge myself / for God and country. I am not a member and do not subscribe
/ to the principles of any group opposed to our form of government.’ Hands down.”
The commander resumes station and seats members with one rap of the gavel. The chaplain rises and stands
near the emblem of The American Legion.
Chaplain: “There shines the emblem of The American Legion. It is your badge of distinction, honor and
service. It stands for God and country, and the highest rights of men and women. Of its several parts, each
has a meaning.
“The rays of the sun that form the background stand for the principles of The American Legion – for loyalty,
justice, freedom and democracy will dispel the darkness of violence, strife and evil.
“The two gold rings around the field of blue, bearing our name, typify two of our four main objectives:
rehabilitation of our sick and disabled veterans, and care for the children and youth of America. Within the
rings is placed a wreath for remembrance of those who died that liberty might live. Upon the wreath is set a
star reflecting the glory of victory and promising to the world the perpetuation of the cardinal principles of
The American Legion.
“Set upon the star are two bronze rings which represent the other two of our main objectives: a deep and
abiding spirit of Americanism, and service to the community, state and nation.
“The inscription demands that the wearer shall ever guard the sanctity of home, of country, of free
institutions.”
The chaplain returns to station. The commander rises and addresses the new members.
Post commander: “The emblem of The American Legion is the emblem of Americanism. Americanism
is unity of love, singleness of allegiance, practicality of purpose, care of the distressed, the education of
children, all directed to the promotion of a common good. It is that spirit of patriotism which shall ever

preserve our land from stagnation, which is the death of peoples. As Legionnaires, we preach and teach the
spirit of patriotism throughout the republic. We must be ever mindful of our obligations as citizens, striving
constantly to redeem those obligations. In the emblem of The American Legion there is great prophecy. It is
the promise of the defenders of the republic, pledging the fullest good for the betterment of all.
“I welcome you to The American Legion and present you with the emblem of The American Legion, a
symbol of service.”
The commander steps from the station, gives each new Legionnaire an emblem lapel button, and shakes the
hand of each new member.
INITIATION OF NEW MEMBERS

Short form
Every new member should receive some form of initiation. Where it is not practical to conduct full initiation
ceremonies, the following short form has been authorized so all new members may take the obligation and
receive proper introduction to the Legion.
The post commander or an appointed member, assisted by the post chaplain, who shall be seated at the
right of the commander, shall conduct this ceremony.
Small U.S. flags, American Legion emblems, Legion publications and other appropriate items used in
the regular initiation ceremony shall be presented by the officiating officers. Certificates of initiation are
available from department headquarters. The Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee strongly
recommends presenting such evidence of initiation.
Post commander: “We will now proceed with the initiation. The sergeant-at-arms will escort the following
new members into the meeting hall and place them properly before the flag.”
Give the names of all those who are waiting. The sergeant-at-arms salutes the flag and, turning, receives the
new members whose names shall be read.
Post commander: “You were privileged to serve your country during wartime. Because of this service, you
are today privileged to join the great service organization, The American Legion.
“Unlike the armed forces in which you served, there is no distinction of rank among us. We are composed of
members of every race, religion, occupation and political conviction. We maintain also strict neutrality on
all questions concerning religion, politics and industrial strife.
“The American Legion cherishes four great principles: justice, freedom, democracy and loyalty. We are
pledged to serve the disabled, the distressed, the widowed and the orphaned. We are devoted to the cause
of service to the community, state and the nation.
“Are you now ready and willing to obligate yourself as expressed in the Preamble to the Constitution of The
American Legion?”
Candidates: “I am.”
Post commander: “The members will stand at attention while the new members are being obligated.”
The commander gives three raps of the gavel, steps to the right and immediately next to the U.S. flag, raises his
or her right hand, and addresses the new members.
Post commander: “Raise your right hand and repeat after me: ‘I, (here give your name) / do solemnly
pledge / to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America / to maintain law and order

/ to foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism / to preserve the memories and incidents
of our associations in all wars / to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and
nation / to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses / to make right the master of might
/ to promote peace and good will on earth / to safeguard and transmit to posterity / the principles of
justice, freedom and democracy / to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship / by our devotion to mutual
helpfulness / to all of which I pledge myself / for God and country. I am not a member and do not subscribe
/ to the principles of any group opposed to our form of government.’ Hands down.”
At the conclusion of the obligation, the commander resumes the designated station and seats members with
one rap of the gavel. The chaplain arises and stands at a convenient location close to the emblem and calls the
attention of the new members to it.
Chaplain: “There shines the emblem of The American Legion. It is your badge of distinction, honor and
service. It stands for God and country, and the highest rights of men and women. Of its several parts, each
part has a meaning. The rays of the sun that form the background are emblematic of the principles of The
American Legion – for loyalty, justice, freedom and democracy will dispel the darkness of violence, strife
and evil.
“The two gold rings around the field of blue bearing our name typify two of our four main objectives:
rehabilitation of sick and disabled servicemembers and veterans, and care for the children and youth of
America. Within the rings is placed a wreath for remembrance of those who died that liberty might live.
Upon the wreath is set a star reflecting the glory of victory and promising to the world perpetuation of
those cardinal principles of our organization. Set upon the star are two bronze rings which typify the other
two of our main objectives: a better and more loyal Americanism, and service to the community, state and
nation.
“The inscription demands the wearer shall ever guard the sanctity of home and country and free
institutions.”
The commander steps from the designated station and advances to the newly obligated members.
Post commander: “I welcome you to The American Legion. It is my privilege to present to you the
American flag which is the emblem of freedom, a flag etiquette booklet and the emblem of The American
Legion, which you may wear as a badge of democracy and a symbol of your devotion to further service.”
The commander returns to station, introduces each newly obligated member to the membership and requests
the sergeant-at-arms seat them with their fellow members.
INSTALLATION OF POST OFFICERS

Regular form
All officers shall, after their election and at the earliest opportunity, be installed in the following manner.
The installing officer should be a department officer or the officer of another post acting as a representative
of the department commander is recommended. The installing officer shall take control of the meeting
following the opening ceremony and is permitted to install alone or with such assistants as may be
selected.
All outgoing officers are to be in their respective places as shown in the Manual of Ceremonies, and each
officer shall be given a card on which should be copied the “charge” to the newly elected officer. The positions
of retiring officers can be filled by other officers at the discretion of the installing officer.
The installing officer then calls upon the sergeant-at-arms to bring forward the officers to be installed.

Installing officer: “Sergeant-at-arms, bring the newly elected officers of this post.”
The acting sergeant-at-arms brings each newly elected officer to the front, facing the commander’s station,
in order of rank, i.e., commander, first vice commander, second vice commander, adjutant, finance officer,
chaplain, judge advocate, historian, service officer and sergeant-at-arms.
After all are standing in place, with the new commander to the right of the installing officer, the acting
sergeant-at-arms salutes and addresses the commander.
Sergeant-at-arms: “I present to you the newly elected officers of this post whose eligibility records for
membership in The American Legion have been duly checked and authenticated.”
Installing officer: “You have been chosen by your felow members to fill the various offices of (post name
and number). You will, I know, vindicate the trust that has been reposed in you, and fulfill in every way
the obligations which that trust entails. You shall at once familiarize yourselves with the duties of your
particular offices, and you shall proceed upon those duties in the same spirit of devotion and endeavor
which characterized that service out of which arose The American Legion. You must know the welfare and
success of this post depends largely on you, and you must also know upon your shoulders equally rests
the burden of preserving the integrity of The American Legion. You must protect its good name before
the people of the United States. You must exalt it in their eyes. You must make them know as we know
its purposes and its policy. Ever remember the tolerant spirit that animates its members. There is no rank
among us, for each serves as an equal; and all strive toward the same goal, which is the realization in the
life of the republic of the ideals of justice, freedom, democracy and loyalty. Ever remember the cardinal
purposes of The American Legion are the rehabilitation of disabled servicemembers and veterans; care of
the dependents of those who have answered the final call and of those who are now suffering the ravages
of wounds, disease and want; rightful education of the children of our country, and devoted service to the
community, state and nation.
“You will raise your right hands and repeat after me, giving your names:
‘I, (here give your name) / do solemnly pledge myself / to perform faithfully and impartially / the duties of
the office in The American Legion / I am about to assume / and I further pledge / I am not a member of /
and do not subscribe to / the principles of any groups / opposed to our form of government.’”
After the obligation of the new officers, the installing officer addresses the sergeant-at-arms.
Installing officer: “Sergeant-at-arms, conduct the new officers to their respective stations.”
The acting or retiring sergeant-at-arms escorts each officer-elect to their respective station, starting with
the elected sergeant-at-arms and ending with the commander. The sergeant-at-arms will conduct the
sergeant-at-arms-elect to the station of the sergeant-at-arms and, at that station, addresses the elected
sergeant-at-arms.
Acting sergeant-at-arms: “You are the sentinel or tiler, the outer guard of this post. You will guard
especially against the loss of one of The American Legion’s greatest possessions: our deep and abiding
spirit of comradeship. You will learn the identity of, and introduce to the commander, all visiting members
and guests of the post. You are responsible that no one shall remain a stranger in our midst. Be ready at
all times to assist your commander. Into your hands is given charge of the stand of colors, which you will
properly display at all post meetings and on ceremonial occasions.”
The acting or retiring sergeant-at-arms escorts the service officer to the proper station. The acting service
officer then charges the new service officer.
Acting service officer: “You have been singly honored by this post to perform fundamental, unselfish
work, not only for the benefit of members, but for those war veterans particularly in need of your service.
Yours is the choice responsibility of looking out for the welfare of all concerned. The duties of a service

officer are highly important and exacting, and while your accomplishment will be deeply appreciated by
those immediately concerned, the work itself will not be sufficiently conspicuous to catch the headlines in
the newspapers. Depending upon satisfactory performance of duty, there will come to you the heartfelt
gratitude of each and every member of this post. I congratulate you upon the opportunity to serve so
constructively and so unselfishly.”
The sergeant-at-arms brings the historian to the proper station. The acting historian charges the new
historian.
Acting historian: “Your office is an important one. To you is given the responsibility of preserving and
compiling the records of this post. The future can only be judged by the past. Be mindful that the lamp
of recorded experience may do much in guiding the footsteps of those who follow. Ever remember that
without the recorded history of this post, its policies and accomplishments will be a blank to the ones who
come after we are gone.”
The sergeant-at-arms conducts the judge advocate to the position of the acting or retiring judge advocate,
who gives the following charge.
Acting judge advocate: “To you is assigned a most important duty for which your legal training and/or
past Legion experience so aptly prepare you. You are the interpreter of the constitution and by-laws of your
post, and may at any time be called upon by the commander and other officers and members of the post to
rule upon the legality of their actions and decisions insofar as they affect the good of The American Legion.
You are also charged with protecting the integrity of our organization and keeping alight the torch of truth
and fidelity that symbolizes the high and ennobling ideals under which our great American Legion was
founded. Protect that heritage.”
The sergeant-at-arms escorts the chaplain to the right of the commander. The acting chaplain then charges
the new chaplain.
Acting chaplain: “To you is given the spiritual leadership of this post. You will, I know, lend dignity and
respect to your office. You should be in close confidence with the commander and the other officers of this
post and should attend all meetings of the post. You should be ready upon occasion to take your part in
the initiation of new members; the dedication of halls, monuments or colors; and the funeral services for a
member or other veteran. All such ceremonies are made more commemorative by the use of our ritual. Into
your keeping we place the spirit of comradeship of this post. May harmony and unity prevail.”
The sergeant-at-arms conducts the finance officer to the adjutant’s desk, where the acting finance officer gives
the following charge.
Acting finance officer: “You are the keeper of the moneys, and in you is reposed the financial policy of
the post. To you is given charge of the year’s budget, and to you is given the duty of the payment of all
obligations when proper authorization has been given for such payment. Your position is an important one,
demanding integrity and honesty. Your election to this office signifies your fellow members’ implicit trust in
you. Guard well that trust.”
The sergeant-at-arms conducts the adjutant to the respective station, and the acting adjutant gives the
following charge.
Acting adjutant: “You have been chosen to assist in the wise and effective administration of the
commander’s office, and to serve not only your fellow Legionnaires but also those whose relationship to
our organization has led them to look to us for guidance and relief. You will find your duties many, varied
and, at times, taxing of your crowded hours and resources. The successful accomplishment of our program
depends, to a great extent, upon you and your performance of the duties of your office.”
The sergeant-at-arms conducts the second vice commander to the respective desk, where the acting second
vice commander gives the following charge.

Acting second vice commander: “Into your helpful hands are placed the important responsibilities of
assisting the commander’s office in all duties. Particularly should you be interested in patriotic observances
of all kinds, in developing post activities, and in the entertainment features, which mark all meetings. Help
to observe strict tolerance among your members on all political, religious and civic matters. The application
of justice will be your particular concern.”
The sergeant-at-arms conducts the first vice commander to the proper position, where the first vice
commander will be charged by the acting first vice commander as follows.
Acting first vice commander: “To you is given the responsibility of an active cooperation between yourself
and the commander. Particularly should you interest yourself in the membership of the post. You should be
assisted by the most active and devoted members. No single factor has so important an influence on the
post’s success as membership. You will be the exponent of means of safeguarding the honor of the flag of
our country. To you are committed these endeavors with the expectation you shall fulfill each one of them.
You are the teacher of democracy.”
The installing officer turns to the retiring commander.
Installing officer: “You have just completed a year of impressive service to The American Legion and to
(post name and number). The record of your post indicates the quality of that service. Through your earnest
performance of the duties of leadership, you have truly justified the great trust which your fellow members
reposed in you.
“Although the mantle of leadership is now being passed to another, a great responsibility remains with you.
You possess a great wealth of knowledge gained through your leadership experience. Place this wisdom
at the disposal of your successors in order that your fellow members may benefit there from. Through your
station maintain the principle of freedom within this post.
“On behalf of (post name and number), I thank you for the splendid service you have rendered The
American Legion.
“Sergeant-at-arms, conduct Past Commander ____________________ to the station of the immediate past
commander.”
The sergeant-at-arms brings the new commander to the installing officer, who in turn brings the entire post to
its feet by three raps of the gavel, then charges the new commander as follows.
Installing officer: “To you is entrusted a very important duty of teaching and protecting the cardinal
principles of The American Legion throughout your entire post. To you is entrusted supervision of the
duties of all other officers of this post. To you may come the needy and the distressed, and it is your duty
to see no worthy person is turned away without full justice. It is your duty to see freedom is ever the
watchword of those with whom you may come in contact. Loyalty to your post, to its membership, to
the state and to the national organization are obligations which you now assume. You are more than the
presiding officer for meetings. You are guided by the constitution and by the decisions of the post as a
body, yet the responsibility for the success of the year’s program is largely on your shoulders. You must
initiate and carry through programs to completion. You must thoroughly familiarize yourself with the
policies and traditions of your post and of The American Legion. By your sincere acceptance and earnest
performance of these duties, may the great trust which your fellow members have reposed in you be
justified. To you, I extend the congratulations of the department, and I wish you well as you assume the
responsibilities of your office. I present to you a copy of the Officer’s Guide and Manual of Ceremonies to
serve as your guide during the coming year.”
Past commander: “The chaplain will offer prayer.”
Chaplain: “O God of might, wisdom and justice, through Whom authority is rightly administered, assist
with Thy spirit of counsel and fortitude these newly installed officers. May they accept the challenge of their

oath. Impress upon each the importance of the duties as well as the honors of their office. May they know
the value of working together with Thee. Lead them in the problems that will confront them, keeping them
ever mindful of the great heritage preserved by our predecessors, living and departed. Vouchsafe unto
them wisdom and protecting care throughout the year. Amen.”
The installing officer seats members with one rap of the gavel. Newly elected officers rise.
Installing officer: “I present you the officers of your choice. I congratulate you on the selections you have
made. You have chosen them to guide the destinies of this post. Now it is your duty to aid them in every
way. Help them keep The American Legion a free organization of free men and women, faithful to its
principles and ideals.”
The gavel is handed to the new commander and the installing officer takes a seat.
The new commander then seats the newly elected officers with one rap of the gavel.
INSTALLATION OF POST OFFICERS

Short form
Where it is not practical to conduct the full ceremony for the installation of officers, the following short
form may be conducted by an installing officer (a duly authorized representative of the department
commander) who, after being introduced by the retiring post commander, proceeds as follows:
Installing officer: “The sergeant-at-arms will bring before me the newly elected officers of this post.”
The sergeant-at-arms presents the newly elected officers, standing in one row in front of the installing officer,
with the new post commander to the right of the installing officer and the retiring post commander to the left
of the installing officer.
Sergeant-at-arms: “I present to you the newly elected officers of this post, whose eligibility records for
membership in The American Legion have been duly checked and authenticated.”
Installing officer: “My fellow Legionnaires, you have been chosen to fill the various offices of (post name
and number). I know you will vindicate the trust that has been placed in you. I know you will fulfill every
obligation required of you. Familiarize yourselves with the duties of your offices and carry out those duties
with the same spirit from which arose The American Legion. The welfare and success of this post depend
on you, as does the preservation of the integrity of The American Legion. Protect the good name of The
American Legion with the people of our great nation; help them to know the Legion’s purposes and
policies. Remember the tolerance that animates us as members; remember there is no rank among us for
we all serve as equals. We all are aiming for the same goals – the ideals of justice, freedom, democracy and
loyalty.
“Remember, too, the cardinal principles of The American Legion are the rehabilitation of all disabled
veterans; care of the dependents of those who have answered the final call; care of those who now are
suffering from wounds, disease and want; the education of our children; and service to the community,
state and nation.
“Raise your right hand, say ‘I’ and give your names, and repeat after me.
‘I, (here give your name) / do solemnly pledge myself / to perform faithfully and impartially / the duties of
the office of The American Legion / I am about to assume, / and I further pledge / I am not a member of /
and do not subscribe to / the principles of any group / opposed to our form of government.’ Hands down.”
The installing officer will move to the left to address the retiring post commander.

Installing officer: “Commander ____________________, you have just completed a year of service to
The American Legion and to (post name and number). The records of the post indicate the quality of your
service. It is my hope the things you learned about The American Legion and the experience you gained
will always be available to those who follow you. On behalf of the department commander, I thank you for
the splendid service you have rendered The American Legion.”
The installing officer moves to the right to address the newly elected post commander.
Installing officer: “To you, Commander _____________________, are entrusted with very important
duties. You must teach and protect the cardinal principles of The American Legion throughout your post.
You are entrusted with the supervision of the duties of all officers of your post. The poor and troubled will
come to you, and you must see no veteran is turned away without full justice.
“Loyalty to your post – to its membership – to the state and national organizations are obligations which
you now assume. You are more than the presiding officer for meetings; you are guided by the constitution
and the decisions of the post body. Yet the responsibility of the year’s programs is on your shoulders. You
must initiate programs and carry them through to completion. You must familiarize yourself with the
traditions of your post and The American Legion. By your sincere acceptance and earnest performance
of these duties, may the trust your fellow Legionnaires have reposed in you be justified. “I extend to
you the congratulations of the Department of ______________, and I wish you well as you assume the
responsibilities of your office.”
The retiring post chaplain may offer a prayer for the guidance and success of the newly installed post officers.
The installing officer moves to the original position and asks all newly installed officers to face the members
and guests in attendance.
Installing officer: “My fellow Legionnaires, I present to you the officers of your choice. I congratulate you
on the selections you have made. You have chosen them. Now it is your duty to aid them in every way. Help
them to keep The American Legion faithful to its principles and ideals.”
DEDICATIONS
The members of the post will assemble at the designated place in uniform, if such are available, with all
officers wearing ceremonial badges and members wearing American Legion caps. They will march to the
place of dedication. The commander, chaplain and the member designated to receive the gift will take their
places on the platform with public officials and other guests. The post will assemble with the public.
Unless those who are to give the gift request otherwise, the commander will preside. A past commander or
other member appointed by the commander will accept the gift on behalf of the post.
The program as outlined by the committee will be followed until the post commander is called upon to
address the members of the post.
Post commander: “Members of Post ______________, Department of ______________, The American

Legion, and friends. We are gathered today for a grateful and patriotic duty, to dedicate (these colors,
the emblems of the United States of America and The American Legion – this building as a home for The
American Legion – this monument, a perpetual memorial to those who died in their country’s service, and
to those who offered their lives during time of war – other appropriate phrase explaining the purpose of
the gathering). May we again dedicate our organization and ourselves to the sacred ideals which are here
represented, ever remembering that The American Legion’s principal service is for God and country. The
chaplain will ask the blessing of God upon these ceremonies.”
In place of the following prayer, the chaplain may deliver one of the same length and general tenor.

Chaplain: “Almighty God, Judge over people and nations, we stand before Thee today as loyal servants of
our country, grateful for its splendid heritage. We ask Thy blessing upon our great republic. May America
ever remain free and mighty and true to her best ideals. Bless the president of the United States and all
public servants, that they may walk in justice before Thee and all their acts may rebound to the greater
welfare of our people. We pray Thy blessing upon our flag, the emblem of the republic. May it float forever
over a free land. May our ancient watchword, ‘In God We Trust,’ ever live, and may the faith of our fathers
guide, protect and sustain our people.
“We ask Thy blessing upon The American Legion and its members. May we who served our country in war
continue in times of peace, to serve and to shield America throughout all our days. May this edifice serve
for the good of the many; in service to the living may it be a memorial to the dead. May we be eager and
steadfast in our devotion to justice, freedom and democracy. May we be ever loyal to our country and to
our God. May our service to the sick and disabled, to the community, the state and the nation merit and
have Thy guidance and Thy blessing.
“Finally, we remember in love before Thee our departed members, who showed their loyalty in their lives
and sealed it with their deaths. We pray especially for those in hospitals and homes and wherever they may
be, sick in mind and body. May their pain be eased and their burdens lifted, and may their heroic example
be an everlasting inspiration. May Thy spirit rest upon this service. May it uplift us all to constant devotion
to Thy teachings and to the welfare of our country. Amen.”
Post commander: “In memory of those who have given their all to this country, who have made the
supreme sacrifice and have answered the call of the ‘Great Commander of all Divisions,’ we will stand in
silence and with bowed heads.”
Allow for approximately 30 seconds of silence. The commander will introduce the person who is to present the
colors, building or edifice to the post. The presentation address follows.
The commander will introduce the past commander (or other officer or member designated) who will accept
the gift on behalf of the post. The address of acceptance follows.
The program as set by the committee shall proceed, after which the commander will close the meeting.
Dedication of colors
Commander: “The assemblage will rise. Sergeant-at-arms, you will call the guard to display the colors.”
The colors will advance to a position in front of the platform and halt within 10 paces of the commander.
Commander: “The bugler will sound ‘To the Colors’ and the audience will stand at salute.”
The post standard will be dipped at a 45-degree angle in salute. After “To the Colors” has been sounded, the
commander will address the assembly.
Commander: “In the name of (post name and number), Department of _______________, The American
Legion, I dedicate these colors. May they fly perpetually as the emblem of the cause for which we fought
and which we now gladly serve. Here is the flag of our country; safe within its folds is the freedom and
fealty of our nation. Beside it is the flag of The American Legion, on its expanse the emblem of our
organization – the star of victory, the laurel wreath of remembrance, about it all the sun’s rays, significant of
the light of an even brighter day.
“I dedicate these colors to the purposes of our post, community, state and nation, and with them I dedicate
this post to the faithful service of our nation, our people, and our flag. Join me in saluting the flag. Hand
salute! Two!”
At the conclusion of the dedication ceremony, the colors will be properly returned.

Dedication of American Legion building or hall
Commander: “In the name of (post name and number), Department of ___________________, The
American Legion, I dedicate this structure (hall), embodiment of the ideals of justice, freedom and
democracy for which The American Legion exists. As in time of war, we fight for our country, so in time of
peace may we serve the republic fearlessly and well. May we bear in mind those who have gone before,
that their memory may dwell within this home and be a constant blessing among us. It is our hope
and desire this edifice may be used ever in the service of the sick and disabled; of the widowed and the
orphaned; and to the benefit of our community, state and nation. I dedicate this structure to the purposes
of our post, and with it I dedicate this post to the faithful service of our nation, of its people, and to the
memory of our heroic dead.”
Dedication of monument, shaft or other memorials

Commander: “In the name of (post name and number), Department of ____________, The American
Legion, I dedicate this memorial. I dedicate it to the memory of those who fell in the service of our country. I
dedicate it in the name of those who offered their lives so justice, freedom and democracy might survive to
be the victorious ideals of the peoples of the world. The lives of those who have made the supreme sacrifice
are glorious before us; their deeds are an inspiration. As they served America in time of war, yielding their
last full measure of devotion, may we serve America in time of peace. I dedicate this monument to them,
and with it I dedicate this post to the faithful service of our country and to preservation of the memory of
those who died that liberty might live.”
At the end of all dedication ceremonies, the chaplain shall give a benediction.
MILITARY FUNERAL HONORS FOR VETERANS

In 2000, Congress legislated that, upon request of the next of kin, all eligible veterans must receive
military funeral honors when they pass on. At a minimum, the funeral honors will consist of a two-person
uniformed military detail, with at least one member representing the service branch of the deceased.
The legislation also encourages veterans service organizations, including The American Legion, to augment
the honors detail as an authorized provider with pallbearers, firing party, bugler and color guard.
The American Legion has performed tens of thousands of burial ceremonies for veterans’ families
throughout its history; this will not change.
Whenever The American Legion is assisting the U.S. government, it should conform to DoD’s methods of
conduct. In working together, we honor, in the highest traditions of U.S. military service, those who have
gone before. In doing so, all the requirements for a reverent, respectful and dignified ceremony are met.
The individual military services will provide training to an authorized provider assisting with the ceremony,
including positioning, timing, safety and proper funeral honors protocol.
All eligible veterans, including military retirees, are entitled to military funeral honors. At a minimum, the
funeral honors ceremony will consist of the playing of taps and the folding and presentation of the U.S.
flag. At least two uniformed military personnel shall perform the ceremony. If a bugler is not available, an
electronic recording will be played. One of the uniformed military personnel will be from the deceased
veteran’s parent military service and will present the flag to the next of kin.
The detail leader will coordinate all arrangements with the funeral director, other member(s) of the military
honors detail, and authorized providers, such as The American Legion. He or she will ensure the funeral
director explains military honors to the family, and that they understand the honors to be performed. It is
especially important the family know about the firing of three volleys, if a firing party is present. Additional
military funeral honors elements should be in accordance with the family’s wishes.

Once the detail leader has coordinated the arrangements, his or her final pre-interment responsibility is to
train and rehearse the detail. The detail leader is responsible for all aspects of the military funeral honors
ceremony, whether active-duty servicemembers or authorized providers perform them.
Positioning/timing protocol
1. The order of the ceremony is the sounding of taps, the folding of the flag, and the presentation of
the flag to the family. If there is a firing party, the volleys are fired before the sounding of taps. The detail
leader is responsible for ensuring each step in the ceremony is executed properly, from the arrival of the
funeral cortege to its departure.
2. The bugler and color guard should be positioned at the gravesite so they are in view of the family,
approximately 30 to 40 yards from the grave. The firing party should also be in view of the family, but 45
to 75 yards from the grave, positioned to fire over the grave.
3. The firing party may include three to seven rifle bearers and one commander, reflecting the U.S.
military custom of firing “three volleys of musketry” over the graves of fallen individuals.
4. The military honors detail should be positioned near where the hearse will stop. After the funeral
procession has arrived, the funeral director will open the rear of the hearse and the pallbearers should
move into position so they can move easily to the back of the hearse when needed.
5. When the family is ready to proceed, the funeral director will signal the pallbearers to withdraw the
casket from the hearse and carry it to the grave. The bugler, firing party and color guard are already in
their gravesite positions.
6. All detail participants (except for the pallbearers) will respond to “attention” and “present arms” as the
casket is carried to the grave. All detail participants will “order arms” after the casket has been placed on
the lowering device. Pallbearers may be instructed to hold the flag over the casket, or to move off as a
group and stand in formation for the service.
7. During the committal or religious service, all the detail participants may stand at “parade rest.”
8. When the committal or religious service is completed, the service representative and assistant will
assume the clergy’s position at the head of the grave, and all detail participants will come to the position
of “attention.” The funeral director will ask the mourners to stand for the rendering of honors.
9. Once the mourners are standing, the detail leader and all elements will execute “present arms,” volleys
will be fired, and taps sounded. Upon completion of taps” all will “order arms,” and the funeral director will
request the mourners to be seated.
10. The flag is folded. The two-person military detail, the pallbearers, or a combination of the two do the
folding. Once the flag is folded, it must end up in the hands of the detail assistant, who will pass it to the
detail leader.
11. The detail leader will present the flag to the next of kin. The wording accompanying the presentation
should be in accordance with each military service’s tradition of expressing the thanks of a grateful
nation.
12. Following the flag presentation, the detail leader will offer condolences to the remainder of the
immediate family and other mourners seated in the front row. It is appropriate and encouraged for a
representative of the authorized provider to offer condolences after the detail leader.
13. Once condolences have been offered, the detail leader and assistant will return to the cortege arrival
point and await the cortege’s departure. The bugler, firing party and color guard are released when the
detail leader departs the gravesite. They may remain in place until the family departs or quietly return to
their vehicles.

It is the sacred obligation of all Americans to honor our deceased veterans by performing these time-
honored duties in the best tradition of the deceased veteran’s service. The American Legion helps fulfill that
obligation by supplementing the effort of the military services.
Authorized providers may receive reimbursement for certain expenses incurred in the rendering of military
funeral honors. The assigned military unit will assist in obtaining reimbursement.
As an authorized provider of military funeral honors, The American Legion is the nation’s representative
for this most hallowed event. The Legion’s dignified participation reflects the professionalism of our own
service to the nation, and leaves a lasting impression on everyone present – a source of pride and support
for the veteran’s family, friends and a grateful nation.
The guidelines above should be followed when The American Legion is assisting as an authorized provider.
If The American Legion is conducting the ceremony without the presence of a military detail, it will follow
the rendering of honors set forth in this guide.
POST EVERLASTING
The American Legion service is nonsectarian. Therefore, it may vary in accordance with the religious beliefs
of the deceased Legionnaire. The wishes of the family of the deceased, and of the officiating clergyman,
should be respected. The casket is covered with a U.S. flag when closed or as it leaves the chapel or home. If
the deceased served under an allied flag, that flag shall also be displayed near the casket.
The diagram above illustrates the proper position of flags, tables or stands used by officers participating
in this ceremony. This equipment – with the exception of the brazier and stacked rifles, which are posted
during the ceremony – should be put in place before the meeting opens.

Commander: “It is my sad duty to report that ___________________ has been called from our midst, and
gone to report to the Commander of all.”
Allow for a brief pause.
Commander: “Before proceeding with other business of this meeting, we will conduct the Post Everlasting
Ceremony for _____________________.” Sergeant-at-arms, allow no one to enter or leave this room until
the conclusion of this ceremony. All present will remain silent until the conclusion of this ceremony.”
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, you will place the brazier and stack the rifles before this rostrum, properly
arranged for our Post Everlasting ceremony.”
The sergeant-at-arms salutes and gives the necessary commands to three rifle bearers and a member with the
brazier. The commander returns the salute.
Sergeant-at-arms: “The equipment is properly arranged, commander.”
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, you will retire the detail.”
Commander: “This moment is sacred with the almost visible presence of the one who has gone before.
We come to honor the memory of one who offered his (her) life in the service of our country and who has
now enrolled in that great spirit army, whose footfalls cause no sound, but in the memory of mankind, their
souls go marching on, sustained by the pride of service in time of war. Because of them our lives are free;
because of them our nation lives; because of them the world is blessed.
“May this service deepen our reverence for our departed friends.”
Commander: “The adjutant will place an American Legion cap on the rifles in remembrance of
______________________’s service to our country in the Armed Forces of the United States.”
The adjutant places a cap on top of the stacked rifles. The commander waits until the adjutant returns, then
gives three raps of the gavel.
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, lights out. Our chaplain will offer prayer.”
Chaplain: “Our Heavenly Father in His infinite wisdom has transferred ________________________ to the
jurisdiction of Post Everlasting of The American Legion. May your soul rest in peace. Amen.”
Commander: “Adjutant, enter the name of ___________ in the record of members of (post name and
number) who have transferred to Post Everlasting.”
The adjutant enters the name in a book provided for this purpose. The commander waits until the adjutant
rises.
Commander: “Adjutant, hand me the letter containing the service and Legion records of
______________________, which we will transmit to Post Everlasting of The American Legion.”
The commander then reads a letter.
Commander: “Chaplain, transmit this letter containing the service and Legion records of
___________________________ to the adjutant of Post Everlasting.”

The commander hands the letter to the chaplain, who places it in the brazier; the record burns. NOTE: The
record burned by the chaplain can be either a blank piece of paper or a typed document. Do not burn the
deceased member’s post records.
Commander: “Bugler, sound taps in memory of _________________ and in memory of all the members of
Post Everlasting of The American Legion.”
The bugler sounds taps.
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, turn on the lights.”
The commander raps the gavel once to seat members.
Commander: “Adjutant, remove the hat. Sergeant-at-arms, remove the brazier and rifles.”
A Post Everlasting citation is available through Emblem Sales, providing the next of kin with a permanent
service record and a tribute to the deceased.
Service and American Legion records should contain the member’s full name in full, date of birth, date
of enlistment, service branch, rank, the theatre of war in which the member served, battles (if any), date
discharged, date joined The American Legion, Legion activities (if any), American Legion offices held (if
any), and date of death. Note: Add or delete as the situation requires and as circumstances dictate.
At funeral, chapel or home

Post commander: “Another Legionnaire has been called to the High Command, and has gone to report to
the Commander of us all.”
Chaplain: “Let us pray. Eternal God, Supreme Commander of us all, Lord of the far-flung battle line, to
whom the ranks of life report, we bow before You with reverent hearts and in sublime faith, knowing You
lead us on in death as You have in life. For again You have ordered a Legionnaire to that realm in the West,
beyond the twilight and the evening star, where beauty and valor and goodness dwell forever with the
unnumbered multitude. Mindful of service nobly done, You have called (name of deceased) to everlasting
rest. You have sealed (his or her) lips. With the faded blossoms of springtime and the withered leaves of
autumn, You have called our friend to eternal peace, to the land of your silent mystery.
“Hear now the sorrows of those who mourn. Touch their tired hearts with healing. Protect them with Your
holy care. Keep clean and bright in memory the splendid flame that now has flickered out, and shelter us
with Your compassion.
“Lord of all life, who lives forever, again You have taught us the measure of our days. We are strangers with
You and sojourners as our fathers were. Our days are as a shadow and there is none abiding. But You abide.
Your years fail not. You never change.
A thousand years in Your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night. The grass
withers, the flower fades, but Your word endures forever. And therein is our help and hope.
“You heal the broken in heart and bind up their wounds. Comfort Your people. In their sorrow may there
be no bitterness, no doubt of Your eternal goodness. Give them to know you do not mock us with this
stubborn hope of life eternal – that having created and cared for us, You will not desert us to the dust; that
You hold us with a love unfailing; that our dead are in Your keeping; and that You are able to do far more for
them than all we ask or think.
“Until for us also the day breaks and the shadows flee, grant us so to live so our lives may honor the
Legionnaires who have gone before us. Together we may come to the city which You have prepared for
those who love You and keep Your commandments. For Your own name’s sake we pray. Amen.”

A short eulogy should be offered by someone who knew the veteran and Legionnaire well.
Post commander: “This moment is sacred with the almost visible presence of the one who has gone
before. We come to honor the memory of one who offered life and service for God and country, one who
has now enrolled in that great spirit army whose footfalls cause no sound. But in our memory, their souls go
marching on. Proudly we remember their service in time of war. Because of them, our lives are free; because
of them, our nation lives; because of them, the world is blessed. May the ceremonies of today deepen our
reverence for our honored member and friend.
“Let us not enshroud their memory with thoughts of sorrow. Tears or words of sympathy cannot bring back
the comfort of those loving hands or the music of voices stilled. The solemn pride of that service is theirs,
and for the living to remember.
“Legionnaires and friends, let us here pledge ourselves anew to united service, to consecrate and sanctify
our comradeship by a devotion to mutual helpfulness in the protection of those left behind.
“We realize how futile are mere words to express our deep and abiding sympathy in your loss. May you feel
our friend is at rest, and in endless peace. Generation after generation, all the shadowy peoples of the past
have lived as we live, perplexed and mystified by death. They have gone into the great beyond with hearts
filled with wistful longing, as all must go.
“Surely there is an afterlife for all who have been loyal and true, a life to which light and peace shall come,
where the burden shall be lifted and the heartache shall cease, where the love, the hope and the fulfillment
that escape us here shall be given to us, to be ours forever.”
The chaplain offers a prayer in accordance with the faith of the deceased.
Protestant prayer
Chaplain: “O God, who heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds, look in tender pity and
compassion upon Thy servants whose joy has been turned into mourning. Leave them not comfortless, but
grant that they may be drawn closer to Thee and to one another by their common sorrow. Fill their souls
with the light and comfort of Thy presence. Grant unto them such a vision of that life wherein all mysteries
shall be revealed, and all tears be wiped away, that they may be able to endure. So dwell with them and be
their God, until the day break and the shadows flee away, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
Jewish prayer
Chaplain: “O Lord, who art full of compassion, who dwellest on high – God of forgiveness, who art
merciful, slow to anger and abounding in loving kindness – grant pardon of transgressions, nearness of
salvation and perfect rest beneath the shadow of Thy divine presence, in the exalted places among the
holy and pure, who shine as the brightness of the firmament, to (name of deceased) who hath gone to
(his or her) eternal home. We beseech thee, O Lord of compassion; remember unto (him or her) for good
all the meritorious and pious deeds, which (he or she) wrought while on earth. Open unto (him or her) the
gates of righteousness and light, the gates of pity and grace. O shelter (him or her) forevermore under the
cover of Thy wings, and let (his or her) soul be bound up in the bond of eternal life. The Lord is (his or her)
inheritance; may (he or she) rest in peace. And let us say amen.”
Catholic prayer
Chaplain: “Father, we entrust our (brother or sister) to Your mercy. You loved (him or her) greatly in this life;
now that (he or she) is freed from all its cares, give (him or her) happiness and peace forever.
“The old order has passed away; welcome (him or her) now into paradise where there will be no more
sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus, your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever
and ever.

“Eternal rest grant unto (him or her), O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon (him or her). May (his or her)
soul and all of the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
When there is a service at the chapel or home and the casket is open, the commander or chaplain may place a
poppy inside at the end of the service.
“The memorial poppy is a national symbol of the flowers in Flanders Fields that embodies the sacrifices of
men and women who served and died for their country in all wars. We now leave this poppy with you in
your honor, and as an eternal reminder of the binding comradeship we feel for you.”
The commander salutes. If the casket is sealed and draped with the U.S. flag, do not use the poppy, as nothing
is placed on top of an U.S. flag. Simply salute.
Chaplain: “Farewell, our friend and fellow Legionnaire.”
All Legionnaires present at the funeral service shall pass the casket and salute the deceased Legionnaire. After
the salute, the Legionnaires present shall leave the funeral chapel in single file and with dignity.
NOTE: Wherever the term “commander” is used in connection with funeral escort, procedure at cemetery
and graveside, it refers to the commander of the firing party. The post commander shall be at the head of
the American Legion delegation, except when the funeral service is conducted at the grave. Then the post
commander shall be on the left of the chaplain and at the head of the grave.
Funeral escort
The escort is formed outside the church, chapel or residence. Upon appearance of the casket, the commander
gives the call to present arms.
Rifle team commander: “Present ... arms.”
After the casket is placed in the hearse, the final command is given.
Rifle team commander: “Order ... arms.”
Procedure at cemetery
Once the column is opposite the grave, the rifle team and Legionnaires form a line facing the grave. The
chaplain or clergy stands at the head of the grave. The casket is carried along the front of the line to the grave.
Rifle team commander: “Present ... arms.”
The rifle team presents arms. The casket having been placed over the grave, arms are brought to the order.
Rifle team commander: “Parade rest.”
The officer in charge of the rifle team brings the detachment to parade rest. All incline their heads.
At graveside
If no previous service has been conducted, the service for church, chapel or home should be read at the grave,
prior to the following committal.
Chaplain: “Man is of few days and full of trouble. He comes forth as a flower and is cut down. He flees also
as a shadow and continues not. Forasmuch as God has taken out of the world the soul of our departed
friend, we therefore commit (his or her) body to the ground to sleep and (his or her) soul to endless peace
to rest. The dust returns to earth as it was, and the spirit returns unto God who gave it.”

The chaplain offers a benediction (if desired). At the conclusion of the chaplain’s service, the chaplain will ask
the family to rise for the rendering of military honors.
Rifle team commander: “Salute our departed friend.”
The officer in charge of the rifle team gives order according to infantry drill regulations in force at the time.
The rifle team fires three rounds of blank cartridges, the muzzles of the pieces being elevated. The bugler
sounds taps and two pallbearers remove the U.S. flag from the casket, fold it in the traditional manner (see
page 66), and place it on the arm of the chaplain, who will present the flag to the nearest kin.
The escort forms a column, marches in quick time to where it first assembled, and is dismissed.
American Legion military funeral escorts

A full American Legion military funeral requires 21 Legionnaires in uniform: one chaplain, two color guards,
eight rifle team members, one bugler, one commander, six pallbearers, and two color bearers of the
rifle team. The rifle team commander is in charge of all details and movements. The rifle team should be
composed of members who are familiar with handling a rifle. The rifle team should meet prior to the service
and simulate volley firing. The entire escort should be arranged according to height and uniform worn.
In some instances, a family calls upon the post to take charge of the church or home service as well as the
graveside service. As a general rule, however, the church has charge of the church or home services, after
which the post chaplain conducts the final rites. The post conducting the funeral should confer with the
clergy and the funeral director beforehand on the exact procedure to be followed.
Post service in place of worship, chapel or home

The entire escort should be inside. All uncover except those bearing arms or colors. The pallbearers and rifle
team should sit as separate groups.
Post service following those at place of worship, chapel or home

Pallbearers are covered, even when carrying the casket. When the casket comes into view, the rifle team
commander calls members to attention.
Rifle team commander: “Escort, attention.”
Rifle team commander: “Present arms.”
The commander salutes. As the chaplain leads the body through the escort, the commander holds the right
hand salute. The chaplain salutes only the flag. The post banner is dipped as the casket passes. The rifle
team remains at “present arms” until the casket is in the hearse and the doors are closed.
Rifle team commander: “Order arms.”

Escort leaving the chapel and heading toward the hearse
Units should be arranged at the building exit before the body comes out of the place of worship or home,
in the following order:
• The escorts enter cars as quickly as possible.
• The firing party, color bearers, guards and commander should go ahead of the procession and assume
their places.
• The chaplain, bugler and pallbearers should go to the cemetery ahead of the funeral procession.
• The firing party can be given necessary drill at the grave before the hearse arrives.
• No definite arrangement at the grave is advisable because the surroundings at each differ. The
following plan, changed when necessary, is satisfactory.
• The pallbearers at the cemetery await the opening of the hearse.
• The chaplain leads the casket from the hearse to the grave.
• Upon sight of the casket, the commander says, “Present arms,” holds position until the body is set over
grave, then says, “Order arms.”

When the casket is in position, the following general plan is satisfactory:
As the chaplain begins the graveside service, the commander brings the rifle team and pallbearers to
parade rest, holds position until the chaplain’s services are completed, then says, “Escort, attention.” The
chaplain will ask the family to rise for the rendering of military honors.
At the commander’s order, “Ready,” bring the rifle so that the muzzle of the rifle is level with point of chin.
The right foot should be placed to the rear about 10 inches. The right hand should be on small of stock and
left hand at rear of sight.
At the command “Load” (rifles should be loaded, none in the chamber before the body is taken from
hearse), work the bolt and put the cartridge in the chamber.
Remain at position of “Ready” until order “Aim” is given. An aiming point should be designated so elevation
of rifles is uniform. The command of execution is “Fire.”
After firing, the first and second volleys come to position of “Ready” and wait for the command, “Ready, aim,
fire.” Upon completion of the third volley, come to “Present arms” without command.
If the rifle jams, don’t attempt to fix it; simulate firing.
The bugler takes position at the head of the grave and sounds taps. Echo taps, if possible, is impressive.
The commander of the firing party says, “Order arms.”
Following the rifle team volley, two pallbearers remove the flag from the casket, fold it in the traditional
manner and place it on the arm of chaplain, who will give the flag to the nearest kin following the service.
Chaplain: “On behalf of the president of the United States (the United States Army, the United States
Marine Corps, the United States Navy, the United States Air Force, the United States Coast Guard or the
United States Space Force) and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for
your loved one’s honorable service.”
This concludes the service, and the commander says, “Right or left face, at trail, forward, march,” followed by
the colors and then by pallbearers.

Traditional method of folding U.S. flag
1. During military funerals, the flag is folded immediately at the conclusion of chaplain’s service.
2. The two pallbearers remove the flag from the casket, hold it taut and fold the lower striped section of
the flag over the blue field.
3. The folded edge is folded over to meet the open edge.
4. A triangular fold is started by bringing the striped corner of the folded edge to the open edge.
5. The outer point is turned inward, parallel with the open edge, to form a second triangle.
6. The triangular folding continues until the entire length of the flag is folded. When completely folded,
only the blue field should be visible, and it should be folded in the triangular shape of a cocked hat.

Ceremony for draping American Legion charter
The post may choose the choice of drape and length of draping period.
Commander: “It is my sad duty to report that ________________ has (have) been called from our midst.
(He/she/they has/have) gone to the Commander of us all in Post Everlasting. Before proceeding with other
business of this meeting, we will drape the charter in memory of ____________________. Sergeant-at-
arms, obtain the drape in preparation for draping the charter.”
The commander raps the gavel three times.
Commander: “Members rise and face the charter. Attention.”
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, you will now drape our charter in memory of our beloved
______________________________ who has (have) passed on.
The sergeant-at-arms drapes the charter.
Commander: “By this act we, as members of (post name and number), (state), proclaim solemn tribute to
our departed friend(s). Hand salute! Two!”
After “Two,” the sergeant-at-arms returns to his or her station.
Chaplain: “Almighty God and Heavenly Father, who has dominion over life and death, grant to us the grace
to remember with love and reverence our valiant and honored departed fried(s). Grant peace and eternal
rest to those who have gone before us, and make us ready for that last hour. Strengthen and console those
in sorrow and bestow upon us Thy everlasting blessing. Amen.”
The commander raps the gavel once and announces that the meeting will continue.
Blue Star Service Banner and flag

The Blue Star Service Banner was designed and patented in 1917 by Army Capt. Robert L. Queisser of the
5th Ohio Infantry. Queisser’s two sons served on the front line. His banner quickly became the unofficial
symbol for parents with a son or daughter in active military service.
On Sept. 24, 1917, an Ohio congressman read the following into the Congressional Record: “The mayor
of Cleveland, the Chamber of Commerce and the governor of Ohio have adopted this service flag. The
world should know of those who give so much for liberty. The dearest thing in all the world to a father and
mother: their children.” Blue Star Mothers and Gold Star Mothers organizations were established during
World War I and remain active today.
During World War II, the Department of War issued specifications on manufacture of the flag, as well as
guidelines indicating when the service flag could be flown and by whom. Restrictions were also passed on
who can wear the service lapel. DoD authorized the service flag and service lapel on Dec. 1, 1967, with DoD
Directive 1348.1, which implemented an act of Congress (U.S. Code 179-182).
The Blue Star Service Banner is an 8.5-by-14-inch white field with one or more blue stars sewn onto a red
banner. The size varies but should be in proportion to the U.S. flag. Today, families display these banners
when they have a loved one serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The blue star represents one family member
serving, and a banner can have up to five stars. If the individual is killed or dies, a smaller golden star is
placed over it. Gold stars are placed above the blue stars or to the top right of the flag, in the event a flag
represents multiple servicemembers.
Blue Star Service Banners were widely used during both world wars, and The American Legion revived the
tradition after 9/11 by providing banners to military families across the nation. The American Legion also

offers Blue Star Banner corporate flags for corporations and government organizations wanting to show
support for employees actively serving in the National Guard or reserve.
Order a Blue Star Banner from Emblem Sales at emblem.legion.org or toll-free at (888) 453-4466.
Gold Star Banner ceremony

This suggested program may be performed as part of a regular meeting or other event sponsored by the post.
The program may be modified to fit the occasion. Notify the audience that applause is never given when a
person is introduced as a Gold Star Mother or family member.
Commander: “We will now conduct a Gold Star Banner presentation to the family member(s) of a veteran
killed in combat (or one who was wounded and died of his/her wounds or disease during wartime). This
is a solemn ceremony during which due reverence is requested. Please do not applaud during or after the
presentation. The Gold Star replaces the Blue Star, signifying that a family member who was serving during
wartime is now deceased. Please stand.”
The commander makes three raps with the gavel.
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, please escort the recipient(s) to the position of honor.”
The recipients are escorted to a position in front of the head table/podium, facing the audience. The sergeant-
at-arms takes a position to the right of and faces the recipients. The commander then goes to a position in
front of and faces the recipients. The chaplain follows, standing to the right and facing the commander.
Adjutant: “The Gold Star Banner will be presented to _____________________, the (relation) of
_______________. ______________ entered the (branch of service) in (year). (He or she) was assigned to
(unit/station) and died while serving our country in (location).
NOTE: Additional information citing the service and circumstances of death may be added.
After conclusion of the reading, the chaplain gives the banner and tack to the commander for presentation.
The commander approaches the recipient and offers condolences and comments appropriate for presentation
of the Gold Star Banner and tack. These personal comments to the recipient should express gratitude for
service rendered on behalf of the veterans, citizens and the president of the United States. They need not be
spoken loudly for all present to hear. The commander then presents the Gold Star Banner and tack to the
recipient.
The script is repeated with appropriate changes for each recipient until all banners and tacks are presented.
Commander: “The chaplain will offer prayer. Please uncover.”
Chaplain: “Let us pray. Almighty God, our heavenly Father, we ask that Your blessing be bestowed on
those who now receive these mementos. We thank You for this opportunity to share with them this special
occasion to honor ____________________, our departed veteran in this ceremony. Let us always honor
the memory of those brave soldiers who gave the supreme sacrifice, so that we may experience freedom
in a country that is free. Heavenly Father, keep this family in your kind care. Bless them and comfort them
in their times of sorrow. And let us be reminded of life, liberty, justice, freedom and democracy, so that we
may be ever grateful to You for those who gave so much for their country. We ask Your blessing upon this
service and grant unto us your continued fellowship that makes abiding peace. Amen.”
Commander: “Please recover.”
A bugler may play taps. Members should render a hand salute as the commander gives the appropriate
commands.

Commander: “Please be seated.”
The commander makes one rap with the gavel and members are seated.
Commander: “It is with a feeling of honor and sadness that we have presented the Gold Star Banner and
tack to ___________________________. Although we may not have experienced the personal loss that (he/
she/they has/have), we, as veterans, appreciate the sacrifice given through the loss of our fellow veteran.
In this simple ceremony, we seek to express our appreciation. The arms of a grateful nation are wrapped
around this family to comfort them in their loss.”
“At this time, we offer (her/him/them) the opportunity to make any remarks if (he/she/they) desire.”
Allow a pause for remarks by the recipient.
Commander (to the recipients): “We thank you for your attendance to accept these mementos. This
concludes our ceremony. You may leave now or return to your seats as you wish. Sergeant-at-arms, escort
our honored recipients.”
Commander: “Please stand.”
The commander makes three raps with the gavel. After the recipients leave or return to their seats, the
commander and chaplain return to their positions. The commander makes one rap with the gavel.
Commander: “Please be seated. We shall now continue with our regular business.”
The commander may also conclude the program with a chaplain’s benediction and “To the Colors.”
PATRIOTIC HOLIDAYS
Memorial Day
Memorial Day originated at the close of the Civil War, and therefore, American Legion posts should give due
recognition to the veterans of earlier wars.
After the audience is seated, the post enters, either in uniform or wearing ceremonial badges, and files into
reserved space or seats. The commander stands before the post or upon the platform where the guests,
speakers and chaplain are seated.
Commander: “This day is sacred with the almost visible presence of those who have gone before us. We
honor the memory of those who gave their lives in the service of our country, and of others who have
dropped their burdens by the wayside of life and are gone to their eternal rest. May the ceremonies of
today deepen our reverence for our departed friends and members. Let us renew our pledge of loyalty to
our country and its flag. Let us resolve by word and deed to emphasize the privilege and duty of patriotism.”
In place of the following prayer, the chaplain may deliver one appropriate to the occasion.
Chaplain: “Let us pray. Almighty God, Giver of all victories, we thank Thee for the opportunities which abide
in our land, for Thy guidance in the hour of peril and Thy tender love in times of need. Help us to remember
with reverence the valor and devotion of our departed friends – not only those whose bodies consecrate
our country’s soil, but also those who sleep beyond the seas, and others whose resting places will not be
known until that last day when the deep will have given up its dead. O God, teach us to honor them by ever
cherishing the ideals for which they fought. Keep us steadfast in the cause of human rights and liberties,
of law and order, and true Americanism. Give us the power to see and the will to do right. Grant that The
American Legion may preserve the high ideals for which so many have died. May Thy merciful blessing
rest upon those they left behind. Keep us forever firm in righteousness, humble of heart, and unselfish in
purpose. Amen.”

Music or readings are appropriate at this point, such as Kipling’s “Recessional,” Alan Seeger’s “Memorial Day
Ode,” or John McCrae’s “In Flanders Fields.”
The commander introduces the speaker or speakers of the day.
Tribute to veterans of all wars

Speeches should be strictly in the nature of a tribute to, or eulogy of, the dead in all our wars, and speakers
should be advised accordingly. In the absence of a speaker, or if desired for any other reason, the following
address may be given.
Commander: “Again our nation has assembled to honor its heroic dead. A thousand battles of land, sea
and air echo the glory of their valiant deeds. Under the quiet sod, or beneath the murmuring waves, their
bodies sleep in peace. But in the destinies of veterans, their souls go marching on. Because of them, our
lives are free. Because of them, our nation lives.
“When we recall the things they did, the hero hosts seem mighty in our midst. When peril threatened and
their country called, with what divine self-sacrifice they left their paths of peace to spring to arms, to make
their breasts a barricade against the nation’s foes. No sorrow for the loved ones left behind could dim the
purpose in their souls. No weariness of march and watch could keep them from their hearts’ desire. No
horror of the field or sea or air could beat their courage down.
“They fought for us; for us they fell. Now with one accord, in deepest reverence, we do them honor. Let us
not remember them in anguish; they would not wish our pity. For their sakes also let us not forget the loved
ones left behind. Our tears or words of sympathy cannot bring back the comfort of those loving hands or
the music of those voices stilled. Only the solemn pride of having given more than all the rest is theirs who
live to weep. But all the world, because of what they gave, is debtor to them.
“On this Memorial Day let us pledge ourselves anew to patriotic service. Let us make ourselves the friend
and brother, son and father, of those who will not see their own again in mortal flesh. Let us grasp with
fearless hands the flag so nobly borne before, and, like those others, plant it always on the battlements of
righteousness.
“All who stand with us today, will you not consecrate yourselves with us to emulate their sacred service that
those who rest in heroes’ graves may not have died in vain?
“Let us stand with bowed heads in solemn memory of our heroic dead.”
Allow for 30 seconds of silence. The audience may then sing “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Commander: “The chaplain will now pronounce the benediction, after which the audience will please
remain until the post has marched out of the hall.”
The chaplain says the benediction, and the post files out of the hall.
Cemetery ceremony
If there are no exercises elsewhere, those at the cemetery may be lengthened to include the Memorial Day
service. The order of march is as follows: 1) colors, 2) music), 3) rifle team, 4) American Legion and 5) others.
Upon arrival at the cemetery, the procession is drawn up in hollow square or another suitable formation.
Commander: “Parade rest.”
The color guard executes parade rest, inclining their heads.
Commander: “Chaplain, lead us in a memorial prayer.”

Chaplain: “Eternal God, we thank Thee for this hallowed soil. Make us worthy; we pray Thee to guard
our heritage of pride through all the years to come. In memory of these, our dead, may we pledge to our
beloved land the same service and the same devotion. And, O Lord, secure to us evermore the peace for
which others have died. Amen.”
The following floral ceremony may be omitted.
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms (or other member designated), you will deposit upon the monument (or
graves) of our friend(s) a token of our enduring memory.”
The sergeant-at-arms lays flowers.
Commander: “The flowers may wither, but the spirit of which they are the symbol will endure until the end
of time.”
In the case of naval posts, it may be preferred to scatter flowers on the sea or a stream instead.
Commander (to the officer in charge of rifle team): “Salute the dead!”
The officer in charge of the rifle team shall cause the salute to be fired in the manner prescribed by infantry drill
regulations in force at the time.
The bugler sounds taps. The post returns in the same order of march as before.
Independence Day
The audience is seated. After the preliminary parade, the post enters, in uniform or wearing ceremonial badges,
and files into the reserved space or seats. The commander takes a designated place upon the platform with the
chaplain, guests and speaker.
Commander: “(Post name and number), Department of ___________________, The American Legion,
attention to orders.”
The adjutant shall read orders. After the reading, members will be seated.
Commander: “Friends, we meet to celebrate the anniversary of our country’s independence. The vice
commander will read portions from the declaration made by our forefathers on July 4, 1776.”
First vice commander: “When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to
dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers
of the earth the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and of nature’s God entitle them, a
decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them
to the separation.
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their
Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the
consent of the governed and that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends,
it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute a new government, laying its foundation
on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to affect
their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments long established should
not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown that mankind
are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms
to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursing invariably the
same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to
throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security. Such has been the patient
sufferance of these colonies; and such is now the necessity, which constrains them to alter their former

systems of government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and
usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over the states. To prove
this, let facts be submitted to a candid world.
“We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, assembled,
appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name, and
by the authority of the good people of these colonies, solemnly publish and declare, that these united
colonies are, and of right ought to be free and independent states; that they are absolved from all
allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the state of Great
Britain is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as free and independent states, they have full power to
levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and to do all other acts and things which
independent states may of right do. And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the
protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred
honor.”
Commander: “This declaration was followed by years of struggles. There from our nation was born, and on
September 17, 1787, it adopted the Constitution, the charter of our rights and liberties, whose preamble I
now request our second vice commander to read.”
Second vice commander: “We, the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union,
establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare
and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this constitution
for the United States of America.”
Commander: “This government guaranteed by these great documents has been preserved to the present
day. We now pay tribute to those who fought for its establishment and preservation. The same spirit, which
animated them, promoted the heroes of the World War of 1917 and 1918 to fight to preserve the freedom
of civilization of the world. Out of that struggle grew The American Legion, whose preamble I now request
the chaplain to read.”
Chaplain: “For God and country, we associate ourselves together for the following purposes: to uphold
and defend the Constitution of the United States of America: to maintain law and order; to foster
and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism; to preserve the memories and incidents of our
associations in all wars;
to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation; to combat the autocracy
of both the classes and the masses; to make right the master of might; to promote peace and good will
on earth; to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy; to
consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.”
The commander will introduce the speaker of the day. The post may invite children in patriotic dress to sing
“America,” “Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean,” or other patriotic music at this point.
Chaplain: “Let us stand in silence in memory and in honor of the soldiers of the Revolutionary War and
those after them who have fought that liberty might endure.”
Sing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The post files out and is dismissed.
Veterans Day
The post files in and is seated in reserved space or seats. The commander, chaplain and other officers or
members with speaking parts take their places on the platform. The active parts are given by four officers or
other members designated by the commander.
Commander: “The chaplain will offer prayer.”

The following prayer is optional. In its place the chaplain may deliver an appropriate prayer. If any member
shall object to prayer on conscientious grounds, observe 30 seconds of silence in memory of the dead, provided
the same is so ordered by a majority of members present.
Chaplain: “O God of Hosts, we bow our heads in thankfulness for the victories Thou hast granted us – to us
and to those peoples who have united with us to stamp out the evils of aggression, intolerance and greed.
“We beseech Thee to bring the blessings of understanding to the families and friends, in this and other
lands, of those who have given their lives that men may be free. Grant, O God, that those closest to the
fallen may mingle the pain of their losses with the ennobling light of sacrifice for civilization – sacrifice for a
better world for this and other generations yet unborn.
“Grant us too, O God, the courage to so live with the family of nations around the world that the end of
strife will be the beginning of enduring peace. Grant us patience in planning with our fellow men and
women a world in which nations may resolve their differences by peaceful means.
“Touch Thou the souls of people in every land with the enduring light of wisdom so they may form a
brotherhood which will strive to further the arts of peace under laws and ethics blessed by Thy love.
“Grant us now Thy continued blessing upon unity and strength that makes victories possible in war, that we
may win greater victories of peace. Amen.”
Music or singing would be appropriate at this time.
Commander: “On this day, Veterans Day, we are commemorating the service of veterans of all wars.
“We remember how men and women set aside their civilian pursuits to serve their nation’s cause,
defending the freedom of mankind and preserving our precious American heritage.
“We believe our strength on the field of battle, on the supply lines which nourished our armed might, lay
in the justice of our cause against the forces of evil. We believe our determination made us better warriors
because we fought with our minds and our hearts as well as our bodies.
“We recognize service to our country and her cause does not end with the termination of military service.
We continue our endeavors on behalf of an honorable world peace with a feeling of profound gratitude to
God, and to the men and women who gave their lives as their part of the cost of this noblest of causes.
“Out of blood and sweat we learned of purpose, sacrifice, tolerance, bravery and discipline. These are solid
foundation stones upon which a great nation is built. In our continuing quest for an honorable world peace,
we must cultivate these virtues.”
Auxiliary president or representative: “The waging of war involves more than just the combatants who
fight to the death on the field of battle. The fighting forces begin at the fireside and in the hometowns.
The repercussions of war’s terrible brutality have chilled the heart and dimmed the hopes and dreams of
many a loved one left behind on the home front. While the horrors of the battlefield may not have been our
experience, we have lived with the terrifying loneliness created to answer an aggressor’s challenge.
“In waging war, we have moved forward with a unity of purpose which made us strong, forgetting
pettiness, egotism and pride. Our hearts beat in tune with those in other nations fighting for freedom and
the dignity and opportunity of mankind. In our constant quest for an honorable world peace, there is need
for unity of purpose if we truly are to move toward a brighter tomorrow.”
First officer: “If there be glory in war, it is the almost incredible spirit which it engenders. Those who offered
their lives sacrifice their all with magnificent abandon. Heroism becomes contagious. Yet, too, in warfare,
greed and brutality are epidemic. Too often it is these later which persist in the peace that follows. Let us
strive to see the same spirit of self-sacrifice is cultivated in peace as has been exhibited in war.

“It behooves us to rear new standards of success, to inspire youth in peace as youth was inspired in war.
Public honor must be given where public honor is due – not to the manipulator of a market, the seeker
after profit, power or position, but rather, let us honor the heroes of science who alleviate human suffering
and carry to greater heights the standards of civilization.
“Let us honor those who in public service seek not how much they may secure from the nation but how
much they can give. Let us honor those who devote their lives to that education, which will lead our
children on to live and laugh and learn and love, as we have only dreamed of doing. Let us honor those
veterans who carry into ordinary affairs of life a noble idealism and sincere capacity for self-devotion. Let us
translate the devotion of war into a devotion of peace. Let us will to live as well as die for our country.”
Woman veteran: “The hurts of war fall alike upon those who wear the same uniform, no matter how they
may differ in race, creed or culture. Those who fight together suffer together to achieve a common aim.
“In the similarity of battle dress, there is a common denominator: the common purpose, the sharing of
danger and suffering, which brings in time of war a tolerance which adds strength to the cause.
“As we put aside the brown and blue and green fabrics that made us one people on the battlefields, we can
hold in our minds that tolerance we have achieved. In tolerance there is progress – progress toward a better
and a happier world.”
Second officer: “Courage is one of the virtues born of war – the courage of individuals in the face of danger
and the courage of nations to protect the weak and punish the aggressor. There is bravery to be shown
in peace as well. May we recapture the courage which turned the wilderness into cities that bound men
together under government.
“We can turn slums into comfortable homes, turn uncertainty into certainty. We can reach new heights of
civilization and opportunity for the men and women of this nation if we have the courage to expect and
work for a better way of life.
“There can be romance in this challenge also. The bravery that fights for political, social, economic and
spiritual gains may be more difficult to practice – may be unsung when achieved – but it is all the more
worth striving for.”
Third officer: “War has taught us the lesson of obedience to command. ‘The game is more than the player
... And the ship is more than the crew.’
“There is a greater discipline we must now pursue if we are to preserve this virtue of obedience in our quest
for an honorable world peace. That is obedience to the laws we, ourselves, make – the voluntary discipline
of citizenship.
“Under our system of government we may change the laws by majority rule. We may persuade our
neighbors to new theories or new courses. We may advocate in free elections the choice of veterans or
plans. As good citizens we follow the choice of the majority, whether that choice be the individual’s or not.
“This is the virtue of discipline which must be ours in peace. This is the lesson we must learn at home, in
school, on the playing fields, in organizations, in the community and the nation. It is the lesson of voluntary
obedience to the decisions of the majority.
“We must not be unmindful either of the conclusions of other peoples with whom we have joined in the
quest for an honorable world peace. This is the higher order of disciplines.”
Commander: “In time of peace we can use the ennobling virtues of war and put behind us its ugliness and
suffering. In peace we shall go forward together to scale new heights of achievement in unity of purpose,
in sacrifice for the common good, in tolerance for those of different faiths and creeds, in bravery to fight for

social and economic gains, and in the discipline of good citizenship. We shall move forward in the sight of
God as a strong nation in a peaceful world.”
Other speakers may be introduced by the commander. Sing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Post members file out.
FLAG CEREMONIES
Retirement of old colors
This ceremony is suggested for occasions when an American Legion post may wish to retire, not dispose of,
colors that have become unserviceable.
Commander: “It has been recommended our worn set of old colors be fittingly retired. As they have served
our post for many years and on a great variety of occasions, we shall retire them with the respect they
deserve.
“Sergeant-at-arms, you will have the color guard advance and present the colors for final inspection.”
The colors are brought to the commander’s rostrum in proper form.
Sergeant-at-arms: “We have the honor to present for inspection and retirement the colors which have
served our post for (number) years.”
The sergeant-at-arms steps to one side.
Commander: “The members of the inspection team will examine the colors.”
The two inspectors can be post officers.
First inspector: “The colors have become faded and worn as a result of use in post functions. I recommend
they be retired.”
Second inspector: “These colors have become unserviceable in a worthy cause and they should be
honorably retired from further service.”
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, prepare the colors for retirement.”
The sergeant-at-arms instructs the color guard to prepare to retire the colors. The commander gives three raps
of the gavel.
Chaplain: “Almighty God, Captain of all hosts and commander over all, bless and consecrate this gathering.
We thank You for our country and its flag, and for the liberty for which it stands. We thank You for The
American Legion and its banner, and the privilege You have given us to serve our country in its hours of
need and to continue to serve our country in time of peace. Amen.”
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, retire the colors.”
Most posts keep old colors in a trophy case or other location where they can be properly displayed or stored.
Dignified disposal of unserviceable flags

This ceremony is suggested as part of a Flag Day observance. The post assembles outdoors at night.
Members form two parallel rows about 20 feet apart, facing each other. Officers take up stations as shown
in the graphic on page 789. A small fire is burning opposite the commander and beyond the rows of
members.

Sergeant-at-arms: “Commander, we wish to present a number of unserviceable flags of our country for
inspection and disposal.”
Commander: “Sergeant-at-arms, advance with your detail and present the flags for disposal and
inspection.”
The sergeant-at-arms calls the detail to attention. The detail forms at the post of the sergeant-at-arms, takes
the flags to be inspected, marches abreast down center until opposite the second vice commander, turns right
and halts two paces in front of the second vice commander. The sergeant-at-arms steps forward and salutes.
Sergeant-at-arms: “Vice commander, we present these unserviceable flags for your inspection.”
Second vice commander: “Is the present condition of these flags the result of their usual service as the
emblem of our country?”
Sergeant-at-arms: “These flags have become faded and worn over the graves of our departed friends and
the dead servicemembers of all our nation’s wars.”
Second vice commander: “Present these flags to the first vice commander for inspection.”
The sergeant-at-arms salutes, does an about-face, commands the detail “About face,” crosses behind the detail
and takes post at its left, and commands “Forward march.” The detail marches to within two paces of the first
vice commander, halts and proceeds as before.
Sergeant-at-arms: “Vice commander, we present these flags which have been inspected by the second
vice commander, for your further inspection.”
First vice commander: “Have any of these flags served any other purpose?”
Sergeant-at-arms: “Some of these flags have been displayed in various public places.”
First vice commander: “Present them for final inspection and dignified disposal.”
The sergeant-at-arms salutes, about faces, commands the detail “About face,” crosses behind the detail and
takes position on its left, commands “Forward march.” The detail marches to center, turns left, halts within two
paces of the commander, sergeant-at-arms steps one pace forward and salutes.
Sergeant-at-arms: “Commander, we have the honor to present for final inspection and proper disposal
these flags of our country.”
Commander: “Have these flags been inspected by the first and second vice commanders?”
Sergeant-at-arms: “They have.”
Commander: “Second vice commander, what does your inspection show and what do you recommend?”
Second vice commander: “Commander, these flags became unserviceable in a worthy cause, I recommend
they be honorably retired from further service.”
Commander: “First vice commander, what does your inspection show and what do you recommend?”
First vice commander: “Commander, since these flags have become faded and worn in a tribute of service
and love, I also recommend they be fittingly destroyed.”
Commander: “We have presented here these flags of our country which have been inspected and judged
as unserviceable. They have reached their present state in a proper service of tribute, memory and love.
“A flag may be a flimsy bit of printed gauze or a beautiful banner of finest silk. Its intrinsic value may be
trifling or great; but its real value is beyond price, for it is a precious symbol of all that we have worked for

and lived for, and died for — a free nation of free men and women, true to the faith of the past, devoted to
the ideals and practice of justice, freedom and democracy.
“Let these faded flags of our country be retired and destroyed with respectful and honorable rites and their
places be taken by bright new flags of the same size and kind, and let no grave of our military dead be
unhonored and unmarked. Sergeant-at-arms, assemble the color guard, escort the detail bearing the flags
and destroy these flags by burning. The members shall stand at attention.”
The color guard forms. The detail does an about-face. Preceded by the color guard, the detail marches down
center to the fire. National colors cross over and take position on the right of the fire, facing the commander.
Post standard takes position on the left of the fire. The detail lines up behind the fire, which is burning low.
Chaplain: “Almighty God, Captain of all hosts and Commander over all, bless and consecrate this present
hour. We thank You for our country and its flag, and for the liberty for which it stands. To a clean and
purging flame we commit these flags, worn out in worthy service. As they yield their substance to the fire,
may Your holy light spread over us and bring our hearts renewed devotion to God and country. Amen.”
Commander: “Present arms.”
The color guard presents arms. The post standard is dipped. All officers and members, except the flag detail,
salute. Members of the flag detail dip the unserviceable flags in kerosene and place them on a rack over the
fire. The bugler sounds “To the Colors.”
Commander: “Order arms.”
The color guard resumes its station and the detail is dismissed. The color guard advances down the center and
places colors. Members of the detail resume their places among the members.

Dignified disposal of unserviceable flags
Flag presentation
1. Open the ceremony with a chairman or master of ceremonies calling the gathering to order and
briefly outlining the purpose of the meeting.
2. “Let us stand as (post chaplain or local minister) pronounces the invocation.”
3. A reading of Wilbur D. Nesbit’s “Your Flag and My Flag.” The chairman introduces the person who will
give the reading. Note: Check the Internet or a public library for other appropriate verses celebrating the
flag.
4. The chairman or designated person explains the purpose of the presentation, and introduces the
organization or person presenting the flag as well as the organization or individual to whom the flag is to
be presented.
5. The person presenting the flag should have it ready. Be sure the flag has been properly folded in the
form of a colonial hat with only the blue field and stars showing (see page 67). The person who is to
receive the flag is called from the front of the audience, and after a few words by the presenter, receives
the flag.
6. The person receiving the flag makes an acceptance speech.
7. The Pledge of Allegiance should be recited by everyone present. (Legionnaires will remove their caps.)
8. Mass singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “America,” or other appropriate patriotic song.
9. Benediction.

NOTE: Should a more elaborate program be desired, such as raising the flag on a flagpole, conduct
presentation ceremonies as indicated above and extend the program following No. 6 and before mass
singing and the benediction. If a flag raising is included, it’s recommended an honor guard consisting
of at least seven riflemen, two color bearers carrying the U.S. flag and American Legion colors, and two
Legionnaires to raise the flag be marched to the flagpole. (A 150-foot distance is recommended.) After the
flag is raised and/or the national anthem is played, the honor guard should fire one volley as a salute to the
flag. If a band is not available, a bugler could be substituted to play “To the Colors.”
Prayers for special occasions

For chaplains asked to pray at meetings other than post meetings, these prayers have been printed for
their use:
Joint meeting
“Most gracious Father of us all, from Whom comes all help and blessings, look upon us gathered here, and
with Thy favor, direct us in all our actions. Grant to us vigilant hearts; give us minds to know Thee, diligence
to seek Thee, and wisdom to find Thee. Sanctify us with Thy presence, bless us with Thy might, and assist
us with Thy counsel, that all our endeavors may begin with Thee and through Thee may be happily ended.
Amen.”
Benediction
“May the strength of God sustain us; may the power of God preserve us; may the hand of God protect us;
may the way of God direct us; may the love of God go with us. Amen.”
Memorial service
“Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, who hast dominion over life and death, grant to us the grace to
remember with love and reverence our valiant and honored departed friend. Grant peace and eternal rest
to those who have gone before us, and make us ready for that last hour. Strengthen and console those in
sorrow and bestow upon us Thy everlasting blessing. Amen.”

APPENDIX
Meaning of the Preamble to The American Legion Constitution
For God and Country, we associate ourselves together for the following purposes …
The American Legion recognizes the influence of Almighty God in all worthwhile endeavors and declares
the allegiance of Legionnaires to both God and nation.
To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America

The Constitution of the United States is the written bulwark of our free way of life and representative
government. It is our guarantee of liberty, freedom, justice and democracy. Members of The American
Legion bore arms and went to war to defend and uphold this document of freedom.
To maintain law and order

Without law and order, liberty would become license. Law and order protect our pursuit of happiness,
one of our God-given rights. Members of The American Legion served in wars to uphold law and order
among nations. It is just as important to maintain the due processes of law in our domestic affairs. It
binds Legionnaires to obey the laws of the land and to support the constituted authorities in enforcing
those laws.
To foster and perpetuate a 100 percent Americanism

Americanism is the gist of the American ideals of freedom, justice, individual rights and unlimited
opportunities. It embraces all the freedoms we cherish and all the rights that are guaranteed to us. It is the
very opposite of hatred, bigotry and intolerance. Americanism is the creed that has blazed the world-wide
trail for justice, fair play, decency, belief in God, private enterprise, universal education, and progress in all
human endeavors. It puts a premium on the virtues of loyalty, patriotism, hard work and thrift.
To preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in all wars

Service in defense of America is the greatest experience in the lifetimes of all veterans. Recalling the
highlights of that service means more than flashbacks to tense moments of excitement and danger in
battle: the grime of muddy trenches, the perils of sub-infested oceans and the combat in the wild blue
yonder. It means also the inerasable recollection of the comradeships, the bravery of pals, the team work,
the sacrifices, the miseries and hardships of military campaigns shared in common. It means the bond that
binds all ex-servicemen and women together in mutual affection, respect and gratitude. It also means
keeping green forever the memories of the supreme sacrifices of gallant American patriots, sacrifices
necessary to the winnings of wars. It means faithful annual observance of Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
To inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation

Always interested in building a better nation, the founders of The American Legion believed that such
building must start first with the individual in their own community. So they made it one of the cardinal
principles of The American Legion to inculcate that sense of personal obligation to the community, state
and nation into the individual citizen. That means educating the citizen – young, old and future – in his
and her responsibility to be active in making the hometown a better place in which to live, in discharging
the duty of voting in elections, in paying taxes promptly, in contributing to community chest funds and
to blood banks. The word “inculcate” means “to impress by frequent admonitions” and “to enforce by
frequent repetitions.” Like the duties themselves, the reminders that they remain to be carried forward
are never finished.

To combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses
This clause places the Legionnaire on the side of right in opposing autocracy by either class or mass
when this threatens. In a democracy such as ours, composed as it is of all nationalities, races, creeds and
economic groups, there are bound to be both classes and masses. Indeed, the masses are composed of
classes – but all groups within the mass must feel assured that in this nation, reason and fairness will prevail
in all human activities and relations.
To make right the master of might

Many wars have been started by dictators who wanted their might to be the right. If human freedom is
not to perish from the earth, right must always be master of might. The rights of small nations must be
protected against the tyranny that powerful neighbors may seek to impose on them, just as the rights of
minorities in our society must be protected and respected. Legionnaires are pledged by this clause always
to stand with the right, protect the weak and preserve the liberties of the individual. This concept is the
basis of The American Legion’s continued advocacy of a strong national preparedness so as to achieve the
ideal situation that right will be backed by adequate might.
To promote peace and good will on earth

Until the entire world becomes a good neighborhood, Legionnaires must continue the effort to promote
peace and good will on earth. It is in pursuance of this founding ideal that The American Legion has
supported from the beginning and seeks to strengthen the United Nations organization. Obliquely, The
American Legion also contributes to this ideal by firmly supporting a strong national defense to discourage
breaking of the peace by aggressors.
To safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy
On this ideal of safeguarding and transmitting the principles of justice, freedom and democracy, all of
the youth-training programs of The American Legion are built. All Americans can be proud that in our
international relations we have tried to live by the golden rule, the mark of justice. We have granted to
others, as we prize it ourselves, the great boon of freedom. Through the Monroe Doctrine, we called a halt
to foreign imperialism in the western hemisphere. We gave freedom to the Philippines. These principles are
part of the American heritage. Legionnaires are pledged to protect and preserve that heritage.
To consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness

This is the most important ideal expressed in our preamble. We can hail The American Legion today as an
unparalleled force in these United States for social betterment. American Legion concepts and its ideal of
devotion to mutual helpfulness warmed the entire social climate of America. Today America is extending
its helpful hands all over the world through our assistance programs of foreign aid. This all came about
because the veterans of World War I came home enriched with wonderful ties of friendship and gave those
ties meaning by consecrating them to the ideal of mutual helpfulness.

NATIONAL CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS
The latest version of The American Legion’s National Constitution and By-Laws is available for download at
legion.org/publications.
THE AMERICAN LEGION’S BLUEPRINT

FOR THE 21ST CENTURY
For more information, refer to the full text of the resolutions approved by the National Executive Committee Meetings
in Indianapolis on October 17-18, 2012. Only the “Resolved” clauses of each resolution follow:
Resolution No. 49: Disenfranchising (21st Century)

RESOLVED, That the formation and revitalization of American Legion posts be a recommended priority which
only the Department Commander or the Department Executive Committee controls in accordance with Article
IX Section 1 of the National Constitution; and, be it further
RESOLVED, As long as all of the required obligations are met for the establishment of a post, no individual
post, county, or district shall have the authority to deny any individual(s) the opportunity to start or revitalize
a post, that the final decision on all post charter applications will be made by the Department Commander or
Department Executive Committee; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That no post charter will be cancelled without the department attempting to revitalize the post in
question and attempts made by the department to start a new post within the same calendar year for every post
submitted for cancellation to the National Executive Committee; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That departments are urged to form new posts in communities where there exists a large veteran
population in order to provide veterans an opportunity to choose which post they desire to belong as well as
make it more convenient for the veteran; and, be it finally
RESOLVED, That Resolution No. 28, of the National Executive Committee, October 2006, titled “Disenfranchising”
(21st Century), is hereby superseded and rescinded.
Resolution No. 50: Training and Education (21st Century)

RESOLVED, That all levels of The American Legion leadership are urged to develop a standard for its leadership to
include a knowledge about programs, activities, goals and objectives of the organization in order to do their best
and be more proactive towards the needs of those they serve; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That leadership at all levels (National through Post) are urged to recommend to all candidates for
office to consider taking and successfully completing the on-line version of The American Legion Extension
Institute course; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That every department of The American Legion be encouraged to start and staff a comprehensive
training seminar/college (also known as Legion College) for the purpose of training its leaders; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the National Organization of The American Legion develop a training environment, seeking a
better-trained cadre of leadership that may include the use of computer technology/communications, written
materials, teleconferencing, other electronic media, workshops, conferences, and seminars; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That all levels of The American Legion be strongly and resolutely urged to develop and execute a
continuing education program pertaining to The American Legion programs for leadership and members; and,
be it finally
RESOLVED, That Resolution No. 30, of the National Executive Committee, October 2006, titled “Training and
Education” (21st Century), is hereby superseded and rescinded.

Resolution No. 51: Veteran Outreach Program (21st Century)
RESOLVED, That all levels of The American Legion are urged to develop a comprehensive plan to educate and
provide service to Active, Reserve Component and National Guard eligible military personnel currently in
uniform, recently retired, and separated about the value and benefits derived from membership in The American
Legion; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That all levels of The American Legion are urged to develop a recruiting campaign targeted at eligible
military personnel currently serving on Active Duty, in the Reserve Components and The National Guard, and,
as well develop a working relationship with The Adjutant General of the state, reserve center commanders and
active duty military installation commanders; and, be it finally
RESOLVED, That Resolution No. 29, of the National Executive Committee, October 2006, titled “Veteran Outreach
Program” (21st Century), is hereby superseded and rescinded.
Resolution No. 52: The American Legion Post Operations (21st Century)
RESOLVED, That all department, district, county and local American Legion leaders are urged to develop a
leadership plan that stresses the need of mentoring and training of all post officials in such areas as:
1. Developing and executing post mission statements
2. Developing and executing a five-year plan to include description in each of the following areas: post activities,
programs, budgets to include financial projections, membership and public relations/communications
3. Development of a constitution and by-laws to include proper charter filing, incorporation, report filing
to include Consolidated Post Report, maintaining a proper check and balance system to include audit, risk
management (liability, property and event insurance), and proper writing of resolutions
4. Formation and training of committees based on the size and mission of the post in the local community
5. Develop programs in conjunction with the Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion to welcome new
veterans into the community with emphasis on welcoming our wounded warriors home through the “Operation
Comfort Warriors” program to their communities
6. Reaching out to all veterans in the community and listening to their concerns; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That departments, districts, and counties are urged to develop an integrated coordinated assistance
visit plan, or sometimes referred to as Post Responsibility Audit, so every post is visited by one level of leadership
at least once a year to review the aforementioned areas with the post leadership; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the American Legion believes that each post is a community based wartime veterans
organization known for helping all veterans, families and children in the community and where social programs
will not supersede the reason The American Legion was founded in 1919 and where the image is associated with
“Service First”; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That when referring to an American Legion post in all official documents, publications, signage, and
advertising that the word “post” be used instead of club, hall or other term; and, be it finally
RESOLVED, That Resolution No. 31, of the National Executive Committee, October 2006, titled “The American
Legion Post Operations” (21st Century), is hereby superseded and rescinded.
Resolution No. 53: Cooperation with The American Legion Auxiliary

and Sons of The American Legion (21st Century)
RESOLVED, That all department, district, county and local American Legion leaders are urged to develop a
cooperative relationship with the American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion; and, be it finally

RESOLVED, That Resolution No. 32, of the National Executive Committee, October 2006, titled “Cooperation
with The American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion” (21st Century), is hereby superseded
and rescinded.
SUGGESTED FORM FOR POST CONSTITUTION

Section 7, Article IX, of The American Legion Constitution provides that each department may prescribe the
constitution of its posts. Consequently, posts should ascertain whether or not the department has adopted a
uniform constitution for all posts in that department. If such has been approved by the department, it should
be followed.
PREAMBLE
For God and Country, we associate ourselves together for the following purposes: To uphold and defend the
Constitution of the United States of America; to maintain law and order; to foster and perpetuate a one hundred
percent Americanism; to preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in all wars; to inculcate a sense
of individual obligation to the community, state and nation; to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the
masses; to make right the master of might; to promote peace and good will on earth; to safeguard and transmit
to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy; to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our
devotion to mutual helpfulness.
ARTICLE I
NAME
Section 1. The name of this organization shall be (post name and number), The American Legion, Department of
__________________________.
ARTICLE II
OBJECTS
Section 1. The objectives and purposes of this Post shall be to promote the principles and policies as set forth in
the foregoing preamble, and the National and Departmental Constitutions of The American Legion.
ARTICLE III
NATURE
Section 1. This Post is a civilian organization and membership therein does not affect or increase liability for
military or police service.
Section 2. This organization shall be absolutely nonpolitical and shall not be used for the dissemination of
partisan principles nor for the promotion of the candidacy of any person seeking public office or preferment.
Section 3. Rank does not exist in The American Legion; no member shall be addressed by his military or naval
title in any meeting of this Post.
ARTICLE IV
MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Eligibility to membership in this Post shall be as prescribed by the National Constitution of The
American Legion.
Section. 2. Application for membership shall be made in writing under such regulations as may from time to
time be prescribed by the Post Executive Committee.

Section 3. All applications for membership shall be acted upon at the next Post meeting following the making
of such application, and shall at such meeting, be accepted, rejected or referred for further investigation and
consideration. If a majority of the members cast their vote against the acceptance of said application, then such
application shall be recorded as rejected.
Section 4. Any member of this Post may be expelled for cause by a two-thirds vote of the Executive Committee
after charges are preferred under oath in writing, and a fair trial had upon the same. *
Section 5. A member who has been expelled or suspended from this Post for any cause may be reinstated to
membership by a two-thirds vote of the membership present in Post meeting, and the payment of current dues
for the year in which the reinstatement occurs.
Section 6. No person who has been expelled by a Post shall be admitted to membership in this Post, without the
consent of the expelling Post, except that where such consent has been asked for and denied by such Post, may
then appeal to the state Executive Committee of the Department of the expelling Post for permission to apply
for membership in this Post, and shall be ineligible for membership until such permission is granted.
* Before proceeding under this section, Posts should make inquiry as to whether or not the Department
Constitution and By-Laws has provided a different procedure, which should be followed.
ARTICLE V
OFFICERS
Section 1. The administrative affairs of this Post of The American Legion shall, except as may be otherwise
provided by the By-Laws, be under the supervision of an Executive Committee which shall consist of
___________ members in addition to the officers of the Post. The term of office of members of the Executive
Committee shall be for one year. This Post, by its By-Laws, may provide for such other standing committees as the
business of the organization may require.
Section 2. The officers of this Post shall be a commander, a vice-commander, an adjutant, a finance officer, a
Post historian, a Post chaplain, Post service officer and a sergeant-at-arms, and such other officers as may be
deemed necessary by this organization, who shall be nominated from the floor at the meeting preceding the
annual election.
Section 3. All officers and executive committee members shall be elected annually, and they shall hold office
until their successors are duly installed or as otherwise provided. Any officer or executive committee member
may be removed for inefficiency by the Executive Committee, a two-thirds vote of said committee being
necessary to effect such removal.
Section 4. Every member of this Post in good standing shall be eligible to hold office in this Post.
Section 5. The duties of officers and the executive committee shall be those usually appertaining to such officers
or committee and as further provided in the By-Laws.
ARTICLE VI
FINANCE
Section 1. The revenue of this Post shall be derived from membership or initiation fees, from annual
membership dues and from such other sources as may be approved by the Post Executive Committee.
Section 2. The amount of such membership or initiation fees and the amount of such annual Post dues shall be
fixed and determined by this Post.
Section 3. The Post shall pay to Departmental headquarters the National and Departmental annual membership
dues for every member of the Post.

ARTICLE VII
CHARTER MEMBERS
Section 1. Members who joined this Post prior to November 11, 1919 (or members who joined this Post prior to
the issuance of charter) shall be known as charter members.
Note: The matter of charter members for the permanent charter is left to the decision of the Post members.
ARTICLE VIII
AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY
Section 1. This Post recognizes an auxiliary organization to be known as the Auxiliary Unit of (post name and
number), The American Legion.
Section 2. Membership in the Auxiliary shall be as prescribed by the National Constitution of the American
Legion Auxiliary.
ARTICLE VIII
AMENDMENTS
Section 1. This Constitution is adopted subject to the provisions of the national Constitution of The American
Legion and of the Department Constitution of the Department of ___________________, The American
Legion. Any amendment to said National Constitution or Department Constitution which is in conflict with any
provisions hereof shall be regarded as automatically repealing or modifying the provisions of this Constitution to
the extent of such conflict.
Section 2. This Constitution may be amended at any regular Post meeting by vote of two-thirds of the
members of said Post attending such regular meeting, providing the proposed amendment shall have been
submitted in writing and read at the next preceding regular meeting of said Post, and providing, further,
written notice shall have been given to all members at least _________ days in advance of the date when
such amendment is to be voted upon, notifying said members that at such meeting a proposal to amend the
Constitution is to be voted upon.
SUGGESTED FORM FOR POST BY-LAWS

ARTICLE I
Section 1. The Post existing under these By-Laws is to be known as (post name and number), The American
Legion, Department of ___________________________.
Section 2. The objectives of this Post are as set forth in the Constitution.
ARTICLE II
MANAGEMENT
Section 1. The government and management of the Post is entrusted to an Executive Committee of
______________ members, to be known as the “Executive Committee.”
Section 2. The Executive Committee shall consist of ____ members in addition to the officers of the Post and
together with the other officers of this Post shall be elected annually on ___________ and take office at the
meeting next following that of the election. All elections of officers and executive committeemen shall be by
ballot and the candidate or candidates receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected to the respective
office or offices for which they are candidates.

Section 3. All vacancies existing in the Executive Committee, or in any office of the Post from any cause other
than the expiration of the term, shall be filled by a majority vote of the remaining members of the committee,
and a person so appointed shall hold office for the unexpired term of the member of the committee or officer
who succeeded. A vacancy shall exist when a member or officer is absent from the Post for a continuous period
considered detrimental to the interest of the Post by the Executive Committee.
ARTICLE III
POST EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Section 1. The Post Executive Committee shall meet for organization and such other business as may come
before it at the call of the Post commander within 10 days after the installation of the new officers. Thereafter the
Post Executive Committee shall meet at the call of the commander at least every ________________ and as often
as said commander may deem necessary. The commander shall call a meeting of the Post Executive Committee
upon the joint written request of three or more members of said Post Executive Committee, _________ members
of the committee shall constitute a quorum thereof.
Section 2. The Post Executive Committee shall hire such employees as may be necessary; shall authorize and
approve all expenditures; shall require adequate bonds from all persons having the custody of Post funds;
shall hear the reports of Post committee chairs; and generally shall have charge of and be responsible for the
management of the affairs of this Post.
ARTICLE IV
DUTIES OF OFFICERS
Section 1. Duties of Post Commander. It shall be the duty of the Post commander to preside at all meetings
of the Post and to have general supervision over the business and affairs of the Post, and such officer shall be
the chief executive officer of the Post. The commander shall approve all orders directing the disbursement of
funds and shall make an annual report covering the business of the Post for the year, and recommendations for
the ensuing year, which shall be read at the annual meeting and a copy thereof immediately forwarded to the
Department adjutant. The commander shall perform such other duties as directed by the Post.
Section 2. Duties of Vice-Commander. The vice-commander shall assume and discharge the duties of the office
of commander in the absence or disability of, or when called upon by the Post commander.
Section 3. Duties of Post Adjutant. The adjutant shall have charge of and keep a full and correct record
of all proceedings of all meetings, keep such records as the Department and National Organizations may
require, render reports of membership annually or when called upon at a meeting, and under direction of the
commander handle all correspondence of the Post.
Section 4. Duties of the Finance Officer/Treasurer. The finance officer/treasurer of the Post shall have charge of
all finances and see that they are safely deposited in some local bank or banks and shall report once a month to
the Executive Committee the condition of the finances of the Post, with such recommendations as may deem
expedient or necessary for raising funds with which to carry on the activities of the Post. The finance officer/
treasurer shall sign all checks disbursing the monies of the Post, and shall furnish such surety bonds in such sum
as shall be fixed by the Post Executive Committee.
Section 5. Duties of Post Historian. The Post historian shall be charged with the individual records and incidents
of the Post and Post members, and shall perform such other duties as may properly pertain to the office as may
be determined by the Post or the Executive Committee.
Section 6. Duties of Post Chaplain. The Post chaplain shall be charged with the spiritual welfare of the Post
members and will offer divine but nonsectarian service in the event of dedications, funerals, public functions,
etc., adhere to such ceremonial rituals as are recommended by the National or Department headquarters from
time to time.

Section 7. Duties of Sergeant-at-Arms. The sergeant-at-arms shall preserve order at meetings and shall perform
such other duties as may be from time to time assigned by the Post Executive Committee.
ARTICLE V
DELEGATES
Section 1. Delegates and alternates to a Department convention shall be elected by ballot by the Post at a
regular meeting of the Post to be held at least 20 days prior to the date of such convention.
ARTICLE VI
APPOINTMENTS
Section 1. The Post commander, immediately upon taking office each year, shall appoint the following standing
committees: Americanism, Ceremonials, Children and Youth, Economic, Finance, Foreign Relations, Graves
Registration and Memorial, House and Entertainment, Legislative, Membership, Public Relations, Veterans
Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Sons of The American Legion and Visiting or VAVS. Such standing
committees shall consist of such members, and the chair thereof, as shall be designated by the Post commander.
Section 2. Americanism Committee. The Americanism Committee shall be charged with the inspiration of
patriotism and good citizenship by arrangements for proper observance of patriotic occasions; encouragement
of patriotic and civic phases of instruction in schools; Americanization of aliens; combating anti-American
propaganda by education of the general public in American ideals through public forums, etc., and activities for
community and civic betterment.
Section 3. Ceremonials Committee. The principal duty of the Ceremonials Committee is to insure all new
members are properly initiated. The committee also concerns itself with proper presentation of other rituals
outlined in the Manual of Ceremonies—burial detail and the wearing of Legion regalia.
Section 4. Children and Youth Committee. Shall be charged with aid and service to children of veterans,
cooperating with other established agencies in the community; laboring for the betterment of child conditions
and in coordinating services and agencies in the community for the above purposes. To act as intermediary for
the needy child of a veteran in obtaining the fulfillment of the Legion’s pledge that “no child of a war veteran
shall be in need of the necessities of life” and “a square deal for every child.”
Section 5. Economic Committee. The Post Economic Committee is primarily concerned with local employment
programs, Veterans’ preference, government employment and re-employment rights.
Section 6. Finance Committee. The Finance Committee shall be charged with the administration of the financial
policy, preparation of budget recommendations and supervision of receiving, disbursing and accounting of all
Post funds.
Section 7. Foreign Relations. This committee has become active as America has recognized its responsibility as a
world leader. Maintaining and securing world peace and friendship abroad through community endeavors have
become as essential as any aspect of treaty law.
Section 8. Graves Registration and Memorial Committee. The duties of this committee involve recording of grave
sites and complete information on veterans’ burial in cemeteries assigned to the Post. Special assistance can be
given the service officer in providing flags, headstones or proper interment in national cemeteries.
Section 9. House and Entertainment Committee. The House and Entertainment quarters promotion of club
advantages and arrangement for social activities.
Section 10. Legislative Committee. The Legislative Committee needs to have a knowledge of what is going on
in Congress—what we favor or oppose, and should be ready to initiate action in support of our position when
requested by the national or Department organization.

Section 11. Membership Committee. The Membership Committee shall have charge of all matters pertaining to
the membership of the Post, including the procuring of new members, reinstatements and eligibility of members.
Section 12. Public Relations Committee. The Public Relations Committee shall be charged with the promotion
of public support of the Legion’s programs by the establishment of proper contact with The American Legion
Magazine, Department and national Legion news service and by local publicity of Post programs and activities.
Section 13. Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Committee. The Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation committee
shall supervise all matters pertaining to service to veterans in the prosecution of all just claims against the United
States or state government, employment, relief, etc.
Section 14. Security Committee. The Security Committee shall work with and coordinate Legion efforts with the
local Civil Defense Council on matters pertaining to national, civilian and home defenses. It shall assist the armed
forces of the United States in recruiting efforts and in every way be active in community activities for the defense
of the nation and the security of the American home.
Section 15. Sons of The American Legion Committee. This committee shall have supervision over the operations
of the Post’s squadron of the Sons of The American Legion.
Section 16. Visiting or VAVS Committee. This committee is charged with visiting and comforting members and
their families when sick or bereaved, and with visiting ex-service personnel in hospitals.
ARTICLE VII
RESOLUTIONS
Section 1. All resolutions of state or national scope presented to this Post by a member or reported to this
Post by a committee shall merely embody the opinion of this Post on the subject and copy of same shall be
forwarded to the Department headquarters for approval before any publicity is given or action other than mere
passage by the Post is taken.
ARTICLE VIII
MEETINGS
Section 1. The regular meeting of the Post shall be held at the club rooms on __________________, at which
may be transacted such business as may properly be brought up for action; such meetings may be converted
into entertainment meetings, as may be deemed advisable by the officers of the Post.
Section 2. The Post commander or a majority of the Executive Committee shall have power to call a special
meeting of the Post at any time.
Section 3. Upon the written request of _________ members, the committee shall call a special meeting of the Post.
Section 4. ________ members shall constitute a quorum.
ARTICLE IX
NOTICES
Section 1. Every member shall furnish the Post adjutant with an address for mailing.
Section 2. The Post adjutant shall cause notice of the annual election to be given at least two weeks prior thereto.
ARTICLE X
RULES OF ORDER
Section 1. All proceedings of this Post shall be conducted under and pursuant to Roberts’ Rules of Order, except
as herein otherwise provided.

ARTICLE XI
AMENDMENTS
Section 1. These By-Laws may be amended at any regular Post meeting by a vote of two-thirds of the members
of said Post attending such regular meeting; Provided that the proposed amendment shall have been submitted
in writing and read at the next preceding regular meeting of said Post; and, provided, further, that written
notice shall have been given to all members at least _____________ days in advance of the date when such
amendment is to be voted upon, notifying said members that at such meeting a proposal to amend the By-Laws
is to be voted upon.
Delinquency, resignation and transfer

American Legion membership is annual, the Legion year being from January 1 to December 31. Dues are
payable October 20 in advance. If dues are not paid by January 1 of each calendar year, the member becomes
delinquent. If dues have not been paid by February 1, the member is suspended, but nevertheless a member
with no privilege except that of reinstatement by post vote and payment of dues. Dues not being paid, such
membership continues for five months, to June 30, at which time the member is dropped from the roll by
constitutional mandate and membership forfeited.
A member may resign from the post at any time while dues are paid and can thereafter join another post as
a new member, in which event the continuity of membership is broken, and upon resignation the post is not
required to rebate any part or portion of the member’s dues.
A post member in good standing may not move the membership to another post and retain continuous
membership without the formality of a transfer. Being a member of more than one post at one time is a violation
of the constitution. The right to transfer does not carry the right to be accepted by any post. On transfer there
shall be no transfer of funds derived from dues, etc. The accepting post shall recognize that dues have been paid
to the post from which the transfer is effected and shall make no charge therefore, excepting only if the dues of
the post accepting the member are in excess of those from which the transfer is sought; then the accepting post
may collect from the transferring member the excess dues pro-rated from the date of acceptance to the end of
the current year. In all instances where a member during a current year transfers from one post to another after
payment of the current year’s dues, the transferring post shall retain said dues and shall have credit for such
membership during the remainder of such year for which said dues were collected, but said transferred member
shall be entitled to all of the benefits and assume all of the responsibilities of membership in the post to which
transfer is made, after such transfer is affected.
Eligibility
National policy requires that eligibility inquiries be submitted through the department. There is only one class of
membership; honorary memberships are not authorized. In all doubtful cases, consult the judge advocate.
Constitutional eligibility requirements

All who served in the Armed Forces of the United States are eligible only if they have the following constitutional
requirements: “Any person shall be eligible for membership in The American Legion who was a member of the
Armed Forces of the United States and assigned to active duty at some time during the following periods: April
6, 1917, to November 11, 1918, and December 7, 1941, to the date of cessation of hostilities as determined by
the Government of the United States; all dates inclusive ... provided, however, that such service shall have been
terminated by honorable discharge or honorable separation, or continued honorably after any of said periods;
provided, further, that no person shall be entitled to membership who, being in such service during any of
said periods, refused on conscientious, political or other grounds to subject himself to military discipline or
unqualified service.”
The language “or continued honorably after any of said periods” refers to those remaining in service after the
date terminal at which time eligibility may be established by all veterans having honorable active service during
such periods, regardless of whether they have been discharged or stay on in the service.

Constitution requirements with reference to allied armies
“Any person shall be eligible for membership in The American Legion … who, being a citizen of the United States
at the time of entry therein, served on active duty in the armed forces of any of the governments associated
with the United States during any said periods … provided, however, such service shall have been terminated
by honorable discharge or honorable separation, or continued honorably after any of said periods; provided,
further, that no person shall be entitled to membership who, being in such service during any of said periods,
refused on conscientious, political or other grounds to subject himself to military discipline or unqualified
service.” The word “citizen” requires full citizenship, and one who had only made application for citizenship and
had what is commonly known as “first papers” was not admitted to full citizenship at the time of entry into
the service and therefore is not eligible. Only full citizenship prior to service with an allied army entitles one to
membership. The attainment of U.S. citizenship subsequent to such service does not fulfill the requirement.
Dishonorable discharge
When a veteran has proper wartime service, with honorable discharge, but received a discharge other than
honorable by reason of a subsequent enlistment, if the later enlistment was outside of the ending dates of eli-
gibility set forth in Article IV of the National Constitution of The American Legion, the person in question would
be eligible, based on the first period of service which met the constitutional requirement. (The question of his
acceptability being a matter of the post under Section 1, Article IV, National By-Laws.)
If the subsequent enlistment was during a period of eligibility set forth in Article IV of the National Constitution
of The American Legion and ended on other than an honorable discharge, it would permeate the entire service
for that period and would not be eligible for membership based on service for that period.
Discharge data (November 1951)

FORMS FOR ARMY, NAVY, MARINE CORPS AND AIR FORCE
DD 256 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) (White) Honorable ........................................................................................................ Eligible*
DD 257 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) (White) General ............................................................................................................... Eligible*
DD 258 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) (White) Undesirable ............................................................................................... Not Eligible
DD 259 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) (Yellow) Bad Conduct ............................................................................................ Not Eligible
DD 260 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) (Yellow) Dishonorable ........................................................................................... Not Eligible
DD 214 Report of Separation from the Armed Forces of the United States
(if released to a civilian status, although still in the reserve) .......................................................................................... Eligible*
DD 217 Certificate of Service (reserve) ................................................................................................................................... Eligible*
DD 156A Honorable Discharge Armed Forces USA (Reserve) (unless active duty) ......................................... Not Eligible
*Honorable service during periods of eligibility
Discharge data (Vietnam War and later periods)

FORMS FOR ARMY, NAVY, MARINE CORPS, AIR FORCE AND COAST GUARD
DD 256 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) or (CG) (White) Honorable .......................................................................................... Eligible*
DD 257 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) or (CG) (White) Under Honorable Conditions ...................................................... Eligible*
DD 258 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) or (CG) (White) Under Other than Honorable conditions ......................... Not Eligible
DD 259 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) or (CG) (Yellow) Bad Conduct .............................................................................. Not Eligible
DD 260 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) or (CG) (Yellow) Dishonorable ............................................................................. Not Eligible
DD 217 (AF) Certificate of Service ............................................................................................................................................. Eligible*
DD 214 (A) or (N) or (MC) or (AF) Report of Transfer of Discharge from the Armed Forces
(if released to a civilian status, although still in the reserves) ........................................................................................ Eligible*
*Honorable service during periods of eligibility

DIGEST OF ELIGIBILITY OPINIONS
SERVICE OPINION SERVICE OPINION
Acceptability (See Membership) Discretionary Coast Guard Beach Patrol Eligible
Active duty (honorable discharge, Eligible (active duty)
constitutional period) Coast Guard, Industrial Guards Ineligible
Air Force Academy Eligible (reserve temporary)
Aliens (honorable active duty) Eligible Coast Guard Reserve Ineligible
(unless active duty)
Allies, service with (U.S. citizen at Eligible
time of entry) Coast Guard Reserve (temporary, Ineligible
unless full-time active duty with pay)
Allies, service with (if U.S. citizenship Ineligible
acquired subsequent to service) Coast Guard Reserve, Volunteer Ineligible
Port Security Force
American Field Service (civilian) Ineligible
Coast Guard, Women’s Reserve Eligible
American Volunteer Group, Ineligible (SPARs) (active duty)
Chinese Air Forces (civilian)
Conscientious objectors Ineligible
Army Reserve (unless active duty) Ineligible
Constitutional period, Ineligible
Army Specialist Corps (uniformed Ineligible service without
civilians, abolished)
Continuous service, subsequent Eligible
Army Transport Service (unless Ineligible cessation hostilities
granted veteran status)
Disability, discharged (active duty, Eligible
Masters and crews, civilian Ineligible honorable termination)
employees
Discharge, bad conduct Ineligible
Administrative group comprised Eligible
of military personnel on active Certificate of Service, Army, Eligible
duty for purpose of administering disability (if honorable)
troops being carried thereon Dishonorable Ineligible
Army (honorable active duty) Eligible Employment, discharged to accept Eligible
Associate membership (See Prohibited Enlisted reserve Ineligible
Membership) (unless active duty)
Aviation cadet (active duty) Eligible General Eligible
Bad conduct discharge Ineligible Good Eligible
Canadian Forces, service with Eligible Honorable (active duty, Eligible
(active duty, honorable termination, constitutional period)
constitutional period and U.S. Inaptitude (honorable conditions) Eligible
citizenship time of entry)
Indifferent Eligible
Certificate of Service, Army Eligible
Ordinary (under honorable Eligible
(Form No. 280)
conditions
Chinese Air Forces, American Ineligible
Other than honorable (OTH) Ineligible
Volunteer Group (civilian status)
Over age Eligible
Civil Air Patrol (civilian status) Ineligible
Special Order (under honorable Eligible
Civilian Technical Corps Ineligible
conditions)
(civilian status)
Transfer to enlisted reserve Eligible
Coast Guard (active duty, honorable Eligible
termination, constitutional period) Undesirable Ineligible
Coast Guard Academy (cadets) Eligible Unfavorable Ineligible
Coast Guard Auxiliary (unless Ineligible Unsuitability Eligible
full-time active duty with pay) (under honorable conditions)

SERVICE OPINION SERVICE OPINION
Enemy nations Ineligible Ordinary discharge (honorable Eligible
Honorary membership Prohibited conditions, active duty)
Indifferent discharge Eligible Over age, discharged for Eligible
Industrial Guards Ineligible Philippine Scouts Eligible
Length of service (not a prerequisite) Eligible Police, Auxiliary Military Ineligible
(civilian status)
Marine Corps Eligible
Posthumous membership Prohibited
Marine Corps Reserve Ineligible
(unless active duty) Public Health Service, U.S. (civilian) Ineligible
Marine Corps, Women’s Reserve Eligible If assigned active duty in armed Eligible
(active duty) forces
Marine Officers’ Training School Eligible Reserve Corps, enlisted Ineligible
Maritime Service (non-military) Ineligible
Reserve officers (unless active duty) Ineligible
MEMBERSHIP
Seabees (active duty) Eligible
Acceptability Discretionary
Separation, honorable (active duty) Eligible
Associate, Honorary, Posthumous Prohibited
Service academies (Air Force, Coast Eligible
Merchant Marine (unless granted Ineligible Guard, Naval and West Point cadets)
veteran status)
Shipyard workers (civilian status) Ineligible
If service between Dec. 7, 1941, Eligible
and Dec. 31, 1946, with discharge SPARs, Coast Guard Women’s Eligible
from the Coast Guard, Navy or Reserve (active duty)
Army showing honorable service Space Force Eligible
within the delimiting dates Special order discharge (under
Merchant Marine Reserve (USNR) Ineligible honorable conditions, if active duty) Eligible
(unless active duty naval service)
Transfer (discharge for, to enlisted Eligible
Military Academy cadets Eligible reserve)
National Guard (unless active duty) Ineligible Undesirable discharge Ineligible
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ineligible Unfavorable discharge Ineligible
Administration Commissioned
Officer Corps (NOAA Corps) Unsuitability discharge Eligible
(issued under honorable conditions,
Naval Academy midshipmen Eligible active duty
Naval Reserve, U.S. Ineligible WAAC (Women’s Army Auxiliary Ineligible
(unless active duty) Corps, civilian status, abolished)
Naval Transportation Service Ineligible Served on or after May 1942 Eligible
(unless granted veteran status)
WAC (Women Army Corps, Eligible
Navy (active duty) Eligible active duty)
Navy Armed Guard (naval Eligible WASP (Women Air Force Service Eligible
personnel manning defensive Pilots, service between Sept. 10,
ordinance, merchant vessels) 1942, and Dec. 20, 1944)
Nurses, Army and Navy Eligible WAVES (Women Accepted for Eligible
Officers’ Candidate Schools Eligible Volunteer Emergency Service, Naval
(member of armed forces) Reserve, active duty)
Officers’ Reserve Corps Ineligible West Point Eligible

Merchant Marine
A January 19, 1988, decision of the Secretary of the Air Force granted veteran status, not just veterans
benefits, to its members of the Merchant Marine and certain employees of the Army and Navy during
the period of December 7, 1941, to December 31, 1946. The federal government considers such service
to be “active-duty” service. Affected individuals must apply for a discharge or certificate of release. A
DD 214 record of service will be issued showing service in the Army, Navy or Coast Guard, depending
on the individual’s service. In this case, the individuals would be eligible and no action is needed by The
American Legion. Often, these DD 214s will also show the Merchant Marine as a component of one of the
armed forces (e.g. Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Army Air Corps or Marines). Since The American Legion has
never looked beyond active duty in one of the armed forces, the particular component does not affect
membership eligibility.
Active Duty for Training (ACDUTRA)

The situation regarding personnel who enter “active duty for training” – the so-called “six-month enlistees” –
is outlined in a letter from Col. A.S. Sadove, Commanding Officer, U.S. Army Reserve Components Personnel
Center, Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana, to National Judge Advocate B.G. Davis, dated November 14, 1966:
“At the present time individuals with no prior service may be enlisted to fill unit vacancies in the United States
Reserve. These enlistments are accomplished under the Reserve Enlistment Program announced in 1963 (Public
Law 88-110). The enlistment must be for a period of six years. Reservists enlisted under this program are required
to perform an initial period of active duty for training with the active Army during which time they receive basic
combat training and occupational specialty training… commonly referred to as ACDUTRA. As a minimum, each
Reservist must perform at least four months on active duty for training. The maximum period of active duty for
training depends upon the time required to fully qualify the Reservist to perform the occupational specialty and
may exceed six months. The period during which a Reservist performs active duty for training is creditable as
active Federal service in the same manner as for other soldiers …”
The matter of American Legion membership eligibility for the individual who has completed a period of
“active duty for training” and been issued a DD 214 to show honorable separation from service revolves
around the question of whether the “active duty,” as used in Section 1 of Article IV of the National
Constitution of The American Legion, included “active duty for training.”
Title 10, U.S. Code Annotated Section 101, Subparagraph (22) states, “‘Active duty’ means full-time duty in the
active military service of the United States. It includes … full-time training duty … In clause (22), the definition of
‘active duty’ is based on the definition of ‘active duty for Federal service’ in the source statute, since it is believed
to be closer to general usage than in the definition in 50 U.S.CA.901(b).”
In a general information memorandum dated September 9, 1966, explaining the eligibility changes
resulting from the action of the 48th National Convention, The American Legion’s national adjutant stated,
“Upon the conclusion of the period of training, the six-month enlistees are normally transferred to the Active
Reserve and at that time will normally receive a Form DD 214 (Report of Separation from the Army of the United
States). This form, if showing the termination of any period of honorable service on or after August 5, 1964 (now
February 28, 1961), may be accepted as evidence of eligibility for membership.”
The weight of evidence indicates that, for purposes of eligibility for membership in The American Legion,
the term “active duty,” as used in the National Constitution of The American Legion, includes “active duty for
training” as performed under Public Law 88-110, and in each case referred to National Judge Advocate B.G.
Davis, the September 9, 1966, announcement by the national adjutant has been found valid.

Two-week National Guard training
Training periods in the National Guard – usually of two weeks’ duration – or other periods of service with
the National Guard do not meet eligibility requirements unless the Guard unit was federalized and the
individual’s separation papers record a period of active duty in the military forces of the United States.
Place of service not a consideration

Place of service is not a consideration in the determination of eligibility. For example, although reference is
frequently made to the Vietnam veteran, service in Vietnam is not a requirement of membership.
Active duty required

Since language used in changing the Legion’s charter and national constitution is exactly the same as used
in the past, the basic requirement as a condition of eligibility has not changed in any respect since World
War I: active duty in the military forces during a defined period of hostilities. This requirement was stated
succinctly by National Judge Advocate R.A. Adams in a letter dated March 20, 1925: “... service is the test,
subject to the fact that the ex-serviceman was not dishonorably discharged.”
This statement was made in connection with a ruling made by the judge advocate at that time that those
enrolled in the U.S. military academies during World War I were eligible for American Legion membership
without regard to whether any other service was performed, or even whether the individual completed
training at the academy. In the specific case in which this ruling was made, the individual had terminated
training at the military academy by a letter of resignation. The judge advocate’s was supported by a
statement made by the Army’s judge advocate general three years earlier that “service at the military
academy is service in the Army.” The Army’s judge advocate general had cited as his authority the case of
U.S. v. Morton, 112 U.S. 1 (1884). Thus, from the birth of The American Legion, the test of eligibility has been
whether the individual was actually in military service on active duty during defined periods and whether
that service was either terminated honorably or continued after the period of hostilities had ended.
Length of service not a requirement

There is no requirement as to length of service. National Judge Advocate B.G. Davis, in a letter dated
October 26, 1966, wrote, “... there is no limitation placed on the length of the individual’s service. If the individual
served one day on active duty as a member of the Armed Forces on or after August 5, 1964” – now February 28,
1961 – “and has received an Honorable Discharge or separation; or served on active duty as a member of the
Armed Forces during any of the delimiting periods set forth in Article IV, Section 1 of the National Constitution,
and is still on active duty, he is eligible for membership in The American Legion.”
A minimum of 90 days’ service is necessary to qualify for some veterans benefits, and 181 days for others.
However, eligibility for veterans benefits is not a criterion of eligibility for American Legion membership.
National Guard, reserve eligibility

Veterans of the National Guard and reserves must meet the same eligibility requirements as full-time
federal active veterans. To be eligible, they must have served at least one day on federal active duty during
any of the delimiting periods set forth in Article IV, Section 1 of the Constitution of The American Legion,
and have an honorable discharge or currently be serving in the Guard, reserve or on federal active duty.
The key to determining if a Guardsman or reservist has been on or currently serving on federal active duty
is the “authority line” on his or her activation orders. In both cases, Title 10, Subsection 672 or 12301 are
orders from the Secretary of Defense and are federal orders.
The authority a governor uses to activate the National Guard as an individual or unit is Title 32 orders, i.e.
weekend drills and annual training. These are not federal orders. The reserves have similar reserve orders,

which are Title 10, Subsection 270. This authority code gives the reserve component the authority to
activate the reserves for weekend drills and annual training.
Use Military Law Chapter 39 when determining eligibility for National Guardsmen and reservists.
ELIGIBLE NON-ELIGIBLE
National Guard Title 10 Subsection 672 or 12301* Title 32
Reserves Title 10 Subsection 672 or 12301* Title 10 Subsection 270
*This subsection was created to replace 672 following Operation Desert Storm.
Note: A DD 214 will be issued for the time on federal active duty, or a DA-1059 for completion of a school
will be issued with a character type of discharge. All reserve components send their members to basic
training using Title 10, Subsection 672/12301 orders.
Clemency discharges
In response to a recommendation submitted by the National Conference of Department Commanders and
Adjutants in 1974, National Judge Advocate B.G. Davis issued the following opinion: “After having reviewed
the Proclamation of the President of the United States released on September 16, 1974, it is my opinion that
a clemency discharge will not satisfy the eligibility criteria for membership in The American Legion. Article
IV, Section 1, of the National Constitution requires that the individual seeking membership in The American
Legion must, inter alia, have an honorable discharge or honorable separation from military service or his
service must have continued honorably after any of the delimiting periods set forth in the above cited
article and section. A clemency discharge does not meet this criteria.”
Temporary duty
During the Vietnam War, it was the Air Force’s practice to call members of the Air National Guard to duty
for temporary periods, frequently for no more than 10 days. The call was made with the consent of the
individual and of the state’s governor. The duty usually involved flying Air Force cargo from the United
States to Southeast Asia. Correspondence with the chief of the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C.,
established that duty of the type outlined herein is included in the term “active duty,” in the sense that it
was full-time duty in the active military service of the United States. Upon the completion of such duty, as
evidenced by the issuance of a DD 214 or other evidence of honorable separation, the individual is eligible
for membership in The American Legion, provided, of course, that any part of the duty occurred between
February 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975.
U.S. military academies

National Judge Advocate B.G. Davis ruled on March 6, 1978, that cadets who served at the U.S. Military,
Naval, Air Force or Coast Guard academies “during any of the delimiting periods set forth under Article IV,
Section 1 of the National Constitution and whose service has been honorably terminated … are eligible for
membership in The American Legion.” Chapter 1, Section 101 (21), Title 38, U.S. Code provides that the term
”active duty” means service as a cadet at the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy or U.S. Coast
Guard Academy, or as a midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy.
Eligibility matters not covered

Post commanders should refer questions of eligibility not covered in this guide to the department adjutant
or department judge advocate. Should the department adjutant or department judge advocate be in
doubt, an opinion and ruling may be requested from the national judge advocate.

Discharges not infallible
Discharges are not infallible as a test for membership, for many discharges were erroneously issued, and if
clearly so, may be corrected on application to the appropriate department in Washington. If the discharge
has been lost, an abstract of service may be procured from the appropriate department.
The LEGION Act

On July 30, 2019, President Donald Trump signed a bill declaring that the United States has been in a state
of war since Dec. 7, 1941. The American Legion sought the declaration as a way to honor approximately
1,600 U.S. servicemembers who were killed or wounded during previously undeclared periods of war.
The Let Everyone Get Involved In Opportunities for National Service (LEGION) Act opened the door
for approximately 6 million veterans to access American Legion programs and benefits for which they
previously had not been eligible.
The American Legion’s eligibility criteria immediately changed from seven war eras to two: April 6, 1917, to
Nov. 11, 1918, and Dec. 7, 1941 to a time later determined by the federal government. No other restrictions
to American Legion membership changed.
PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
I Order of Business
II Motions
III Amendments
IV Nominations and Elections
V Courtesies in the Assembly
VI Parliamentarian
VII Authorized Business
Procedure
PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE is the application of parliamentary law to the conduct of an organization. It is
wise for all leaders to familiarize themselves with the technique of conducting a meeting. While it is important
that the members understand the fundamental rules of parliamentary procedure, this knowledge should
be used only to ensure order, to expedite business, and to develop an organization that will cleave to the
objects for which it was organized. For a member constantly to raise points of order and to insist upon the
strict observance of every rule in a peaceable assembly where there are members ignorant of these rules and
customs is but to defeat the opportunity of gradually accustoming the membership of the proper observance
of parliamentary procedure.
THE CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS of an organization contain specific rules for the conduct of its business.
General rules and customs for orderly procedure, in addition to these specific rules, are commonly known as
parliamentary law. These rules are needed to guide the deliberations of an organization in order to do the right
thing in the right way at the right time, and to secure the best results with the least expenditure of time and
effort. The underlying principles of parliamentary law are justice and courtesy to all, one thing at a time, the rule
of the majority, and the right of the minority. –
PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY – It is important for every organization to adopt some authority on parliamentary
law, and for the members to be familiar with both the specific and the general rules of the organization. A copy
of the by-laws should always be on the commander’s desk. Excellent books and small leaflets on parliamentary

procedure have been written in simplified form and are available, but “Roberts’ Rules of Order Newly Revised” is
the accepted authority for The American Legion.
I. Order of Business (if Not Otherwise Provided in By-Laws)

1. CALL TO ORDER – The commander taps once with the gavel and says, “The meeting will come to order
(follow ritual, roll call). The adjutant will please read the minutes of the preceding meeting.”
2. MINUTES – After the minutes have been read by the adjutant, the commander asks, “Are there any
corrections?” If none is made, “The minutes stand approved as corrected.”
3. FINANCE OFFICER’S REPORT – The commander calls for the finance officer’s report. After it has been
read, the commander says, “If there are no questions or corrections, the report will be filed for auditing.”
The Auditing Committee reports at such times as the by-laws provide.
4. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REPORT – In some organizations, much of the routine business is handled by
the executive committee. This committee submits a report of its meeting at each regular meeting of the
organization for adoption by the membership. The executive committee may transact only such business as
the membership authorizes, except where the by-laws give the committee power to act. This report might
include the outstanding points in communications and committee reports submitted at the executive
committee meeting, and presented to the organization for the information or the action of the group.
5. COMMUNICATIONS – These may include letters received, notice of the next meeting, and any matters
of general interest to the organization, read by the adjutant.
6. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS – Standing committees are usually provided for in the by-laws and
function throughout the year. The commander should have a list of the standing committees and call
on each chair by name for reports according to plans previously made. If a report is made that contains
merely a statement of opinion or facts, the commander says, “If there are no objections, the report is
accepted.” If it contains resolutions or recommendations for future action, a motion should be made by
the reporting member “to adopt the resolutions or recommendations which may be amended in exactly
the same manner as any main motion.”
7. SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS – Special committees are appointed for special purposes and are
automatically discharged when the special duties for which they were created are completed and their
final report made to the organization. If there are any special committees to report, the commander says,
“We will now hear the report of the special committee appointed to _____________________________.”
A motion to adopt the resolution or recommendations of the committee opens the report to discussion
and amendment.
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The commander brings before the meeting any business postponed from
the previous meeting, or any matters introduced at that meeting on which action was not completed.
A list of these unfinished matters should have been prepared from the minutes of the last meeting by
the adjutant. Only when the unfinished business has been disposed of may new business be brought
forward.
9. NEW BUSINESS – The commander says, “Is there any new business to come before the meeting?”
Communications and motions calling for action by the organization may then be presented and
necessary action taken. This closes the business part of the meeting.
10. THE PROGRAM is presented.
11. ADJOURNMENT – Members should remain seated and in order until the meeting is declared adjourned.
The commander may, if desired, use the “common consent” motion to adjourn, i.e., “If there are no
objections, the meeting stands adjourned.” Formal adjournment is usually followed by a social hour.

II. Motions
Business is introduced by a motion, or by a resolution. The steps in making a motion and voting on it are as follows:
1. OBTAIN THE FLOOR – The member rises and addresses the presiding officer as Mr. or Madame
Commander, as the case may be, and gives own name unless known by the commander. If the member
is entitled to the floor, the chair repeats the name of the member. This recognition gives the member the
right to speak.
It is out of order for another member to stand before the member speaking has finished, or to remain
standing after another has been given the floor.
2. MAKE THE MOTION – The member then states the motion or offers a resolution; for example, “I move that
we take action to secure a playground for this community.” In order to state a motion properly, members of
the organization should become accustomed to using the words “I move that” when introducing a motion.
3. SECOND THE MOTION – If anyone wishes the matter discussed and voted upon, a member says,
“I second the motion,” without rising or addressing the Chair. If no member seconds it, immediately
the chair, except in small assemblies, repeats the motion and asks, “Is the motion seconded?” In small
assemblies, where every member has evidently heard the motion, instead of repeating the motion,
the chair may say, “You have heard the motion; is it seconded?” If the motion is not then seconded,
the chair may say, “There being no second, the motion is not before the assembly.” Note: Consult your
parliamentary authority for the motions that do not require a second.
4. STATE THE MOTION – After the motion is seconded, the Chair then states the motion; for example, “It has
been moved and seconded that we take action to secure a playground for this community.” As this motion
is debatable and amendable, the Chair should then immediately ask, “Are you ready for the question?” or “Is
there any discussion?” If the motion is not debatable or amendable (consult your parliamentary authority
on this point if in doubt), the Chair should then immediately put the question to vote.
5. DISCUSSION – After a motion has been stated by the chair, it is before the assembly for consideration
and discussion. Speakers to the motion must (1) be entitled to the floor, (2) address their remarks to the
presiding officer, (3) be courteous in their language and department, and avoid all personalities.
Speakers must observe the rules of the organization as to the number of minutes and number of times
they may speak on a question. The maker of a motion may vote against, but not speak against, the
motion. Discussion must relate to the immediately pending question. Note: Consult your parliamentary
authority for the few exceptions by which a speaker may be interrupted after having been assigned the
floor, and also for the rules to guide the Chair when more than one person arises at the same time.
6. PUT THE QUESTION – After sufficient opportunity has been given the debate, the Chair repeats the
motion and says, “Are you ready for the question?” After waiting a moment, if no one claims the floor, the
Chair then says, “All those in favor of the motion as stated, say aye. All opposed, say no.”
7. ANNOUNCE THE VOTE – The chair says, “The ayes have it, and the motion is adopted,” or “The noes
have it, and the motion is lost,” as the case may be. In the event of a tie, the motion is lost unless the Chair
votes in the affirmative in order to carry the motion. A tie loses because every question must be carried
by at least a majority. If in doubt as to the result, the Chair calls for a rising vote, first for, and then against,
the motion, asks the adjutant to count the votes, and then announces the results.
III. Amendments
After the question has been stated to the assembly by the presiding officer, it may be desirable to change it in
some way. A member may rise, address the chair, and after being recognized by the chair, say, “I move to amend
the motion by adding the words ‘with proper supervision‘ after the word ‘playground.’” After the motion to
amend has been seconded, and the motion repeated as it will read if amended so all may understand the effect
the amendment will have on the main motion, the chair then calls for remarks on the amendment.

The discussion is now upon the proposed amendment. After discussion is over, the chair puts the question and
calls for a vote on the amendment. Example: “The question is on adding the words ‘with proper supervision‘
to the motion we take action to secure a playground for this community. All those in favor of this amendment
please say ‘aye,’ those opposed say ‘no.’” After announcing the result of the vote on the amendment, the chair will
then restate the motion before the house in its original form if the amendment has been lost, or as amended
if the amendment has been carried and the vote is then taken upon the question in its final form (if no further
amendments are offered).
An amendment may be offered in any of the following forms: “I move to amend by inserting,” or “adding” if at the
end of the motion, and “I move to amend by striking out and inserting,” or “by substituting” in case of an entire
resolution, by-laws or paragraph.
Only one amendment of the first degree is permitted at a time when a motion or resolution is under
consideration, but one amendment of that amendment – that is, an amendment of the second degree – is also in
order. While there may be only one amendment of each degree pending at the same time, any number of them
may be offered in succession after disposing of the prior amendment. An amendment must relate to the subject
to be amended.
The amendment of the second degree, if there is one before the assembly, receives first consideration. After
disposal, unless another secondary amendment is offered, the amendment of the first degree is then pending.
After all amendments have been disposed of, the main motion as amended (or in its original form if all the
amendments have been lost) is placed before the assembly for action.
What Shall I Do …
To introduce business? Make the main motion.
To modify the motion? Amend, commit or refer.
To defer action? Postpone to a certain time, make a special order (require a two-thirds vote), or lay on table.
To suppress or limit debate? Move the previous question (two-thirds vote) or limit debate (two-thirds vote).
To suppress the question? Object to consideration (two-thirds vote), postpone indefinitely or lay on table.
To consider a question a second time? Take from table, reconsider and rescind.
To prevent action from becoming final? Reconsider and enter on the minutes.
To reverse the decision of the chair? Appeal.
To ask a question about procedure? Use parliamentary inquiry.
To withdraw a motion? Ask for permission to withdraw a motion.
To read something to the assembly? Request to read papers.
To correct a mistake? Rise to a point of order.
A motion that’s been carried, lost or postponed indefinitely can’t be considered again during the same session
except by a motion to reconsider the vote disposing of the question, or to rescind the action taken. The motion
to reconsider can be made only by one who voted on the prevailing side. The motion to reconsider must be
made on the same day or the calendar day (not counting Sundays or holidays) after the vote which is to be
reconsidered was taken. Any member may second this motion. The motion to reconsider, if carried, annuls the
vote already taken and brings the motion before the assembly again for action.
A motion to rescind an action may be made if the motion to reconsider is not already pending. The motion to
rescind may be made by any member. Its purpose is to undo some action already taken and is identical with
the motion to amend by striking out something previously adopted, such as a by-law, resolution, section or
paragraph. If made on the same day, it only requires a majority vote, but on a subsequent day, if without notice
of intention to rescind it, requires a two-thirds vote.
In case of doubts as to parliamentary procedure, or if difficult questions arise, such as to lay on the table, to
postpone, to limit debate, to reconsider, point of order, etc., consult the parliamentary authority.
For further assisantace with parliamentary procedures, refer to “Robert’s Rules for Order,” available at
emblem.legion.org.

IV. Nominations and Elections
The choosing of officers for a Legion group is one of the most important functions. It means the choosing of
leaders upon whose faithful service the success of the organization largely depends. Among the qualifications
necessary for efficient official leadership is an understanding of the purpose of The American Legion, knowledge
of the work and enthusiasm for it, a high sense of justice, fairness and courtesy, open-mindedness, moral
courage and the ability to get along with other people.
Officers should be chosen for their ability to perform the work of the office to which they are elected, and not
because of their social prestige or because they want the office. Willingness to serve is not enough; fitness to
serve must stand above every other consideration.
A nominating committee reports to the assembly only nominees approved by a majority vote of the committee.
No action is taken on the report of nominating committee. Nominations from the floor are always in order after
nominating committee has reported.
A nomination is only a statement of a preference and does not control the election in any way. When voting by
ballot, one may be elected without having been nominated, subject to getting the required number of votes at
the election.
The elective ballot alone elects. Mistakes made in nominating do not invalidate elections, as you may vote for
whom you please, regardless of nominations.
Members of a nominating committee may be nominated for office without resigning from the committee. When
printed ballots are used, names presented from the floor as well as the names presented by the nominating
committee must be printed on the official elective ballot so there will be no discrimination among the
candidates.
Nomination by Ballot
No nominations are made from the floor when nominations are by ballot, as all have had opportunity to
nominate by ballot.
The method of election best fitted to a particular group should be provided in the by-laws. These election rules
must be strictly adhered to. If the election rules prove unsatisfactory, amend them. But abide by them as they
are, until properly amended.
Before proceeding to an election, it is customary for nominations to be made from the floor or by a nominating
committee, or by ballot. The by-laws may prescribe the method, but if they do not, then the assembly by motion
may choose the method of nominating. This motion is not debatable.
Only members of the organization can make nominations or vote at an election.
The by-laws should provide that no name shall be placed in nomination without the consent of the nominee.
This prevents promiscuous nomination and withdrawals.
Nominations from the floor may be made by any voting member. Nominations require no second, but a second
is complimentary to the candidate.
Nominations by Committee
If names of candidates are to be presented by a nominating committee, this committee should be named at
least one month before election day and the by-laws should provide the method of appointing (or electing) the
committee. The usual methods are election by the assembly, or election by the executive committee or part by
the assembly and part by the executive committee.
The commander should not appoint the nominating committee nor be a member of it.
The nominating committee should give thoughtful consideration to the qualifications of each candidate for
office and should secure the consent of the candidate before placing the name on the ticket.

Closing Nominations
Nominations from the floor may be closed by a two-thirds vote, or the commander may close nominations
by unanimous (common) consent of the assembly (no one objecting). If for any reason it is desired to reopen
nominations, it may be done by a majority vote (unless the by-laws limit the time for nominations).
A member may be nominated for more than one office, unless the by-laws forbid. If elected to more than one
office, the member must choose immediately on which office to serve. The other office (or offices) shall be filled
according to the provisions of the by-laws, if simultaneous service in more than one office is forbidden.
Elections
Majority vote is necessary if there is no by-law to the contrary. Plurality vote never elects except by special by-
laws. A person ineligible to hold office at the time of election cannot be elected even by unanimous vote.
The usual methods of election are by voice, or by ballot (a secret vote). The by-laws may provide that election
shall be by ballot except when there is but one candidate for office, the election may be by voice. The ballot
vote is the fairest vote when there is more than one choice for an office. When the by-laws require the vote to
be taken by ballot, it is out of order to move that the adjutant or any other person shall cast the ballot of the
assembly, as ballot vote is a secret vote and each voter must cast their own ballot.
Election by Voice
The election to office may be by voice, and vote taken on each candidate separately, or the assembly may, by a
majority vote, order the vote taken on the ticket as a whole when there is but one candidate for each office.
Election by Ballot
Ballots should be given to identified voting members only. The names of candidates for each office may be
printed or written on the ballot, or the voter may write the name of choice on the ballot. The identity of the
voter must not be indicated in any way, as a ballot is a secret vote. If printed ballots are used, the names from the
floor and those proposed by the nominating committee must be printed on the official ballot. Printed ballots
cannot be used if nominations and elections take place at the same meeting. Instructions may be given to the
assembly concerning the method of marking the ballot. An unmarked (blank) ballot is just a scrap of paper and is
not counted in elections. The election committee has no authority to make any changes in the election ballot or
mark it in any way.
The vote cast for each office must be preserved in such manner that if the election is questioned, the votes may
be verified by a recount. If printed ballots are used, the election committee places the voted ballots in a sealed
packet together with its report (signed by at least a majority of the election committee), and delivers the packet,
sealed, to the adjutant. This sealed packet shall not be opened except by order of the assembly or the board for
the purpose of verifying the vote or destroying the packet.
If slips of paper are used for voting for each separate office, the votes cast for each office must be sealed in a
separate packet and delivered to the adjutant in like manner.
The form of the report of the elections committee for each office to be filled is as follows (example): “For
commander—Number of votes cast—30; necessary for election—16; Brown received—19; Jones received—10;
Green received—1.”
After the vote for all the offices has been read (the largest vote for each office stated first), the names of the
committee members signing the report are read, the report is handed to the commander, and the reporting
member sits. The commander announces who is elected.
In counting the ballots, every name for which a vote has been cast must be reported.
Newly elected officers take their seats at the time prescribed in the by-laws. If there is no such rule, they are
seated following election, or at the time established by usage as a precedent.
When there is more than one vice commander, they always should be numbered to establish their precedence
when acting as commander pro tem.

V. Courtesies in the Assembly
Members contribute to the success of a meeting when they:
1. Come to order at once when the commander opens the meeting.

2. Give thoughtful attention throughout the business meeting and the program.
3. Rise to address the chair, and wait to speak until recognized by the chair.
4. Sit down at once when someone else has been given the floor.
5. Rise to make a motion, but remain seated in small assemblies when seconding the motion.
6. Write a long or involved motion and give to the adjutant, when asked to do so.
7. Rise when a rising vote is requested and remain standing until the vote is taken.
8. Vote on every question.
9. Limit their remarks to their rightful share of the time of the meeting and do not infringe upon the
right of others. The floor should be given to one who has not spoken on the question, in preference to
one who has spoken, if there is any question as to precedence.
10. Rise to make reports, remain seated during the discussion of the report.
11. Refrain from conversation during the meeting.
12. The courtesy of the floor may be granted to one who is not a member when it is desired to have such
one speak during a business session.
VI. Parliamentarian
A parliamentarian may be appointed if there is a member of the organization who is well informed on
parliamentary law. It must be remembered the function of a parliamentarian is to express an opinion on the
point in question when requested to do so. The ruling or decision based upon this advice must be stated by the
presiding officer.
VII. Authorized Business

Authorized and lawful business which the organization becomes responsible for can only be transacted at
meetings regularly or specially called for that purpose at which meetings there is a quorum present.
The notice for a special meeting must state the special business to be transacted, and no other business can be
entertained.
If no quorum is present, the motion to adjourn and to provide for an adjourned meeting are the only motions
in order.
VIII. Motions Classified in Order of Priority

1. Privileged motions: Fix time to adjourn, to adjourn, to recess**, question of personal privilege, call for
order of business.
2. Subsidiary motions: Lay on table, previous question (2/3), postpone to Indefinite time*, refer to
committee*, postpone*, amend amendment*, amend*, objection to consideration (2/3).
3. Main motion*: A main motion is used to bring before the meeting any particular subject for
consideration of the assembly.
* Debatable; others are not.

** Debatable only when no other motion pending.
Those not marked with (2/3) require only majority vote.

If additional knowledge of parliamentary procedure is desired, posts should refer to “Roberts’ Rules
of Order Newly Revised.” Copies can be purchased from Emblem Sales at (888) 453-4466 or online at
emblem.legion.org.
UNIFORM CODE OF PROCEDURE FOR THE REVOCATION,

CANCELLATION OR SUSPENSION OF POST CHARTERS
Adopted by the National Executive Committee of The American Legion May 1-2, 1941,
Indianapolis, Ind., and amended by that body November 6-7, 1941
I. Charges
Section 1. A charge that any Post should, for any good and sufficient cause, have its charter cancelled,
suspended or revoked may be initiated by any intermediate body between the Post and the Department, or by
any three Posts of the Department in which the Post accused is located. A charge may be withdrawn only with
the consent of the Department Commander.
Section 2. Such charge shall be filed with the Department Commander at Department Headquarters.
Section 3. Such charge shall be in writing, and signed by the respective Commanders and Adjutants of the
intermediate bodies or Posts, as the case may be, and sworn to before any officer authorized to administer oaths.
Section 4. Three additional copies of such charge shall be filed with the original. The Department Commander
shall forthwith cause one copy of such charge to be served on the defendant Post by delivering a true copy
thereof to the Adjutant of said Post, as hereinafter provided.
Section 5. Such charge shall include the following:
a. A certified or attested copy of the resolution authorizing the filing of such charge.
b. The full name and address of the Post against which the charge is made, as well as the full name and address
of the Commander and Adjutant of such Post.
c. A clear, concise and detailed statement of the facts upon which the charge is based.
d. The section or sections of the National and Department Constitutions and By-Laws alleged to have been
violated.
e. Affidavits or documents substantiating the charge may be attached.
Section 6. After a charge has been filed, the Department Commander shall forthwith cause a full investigation
of the facts to be made. After such investigation, the Department Commander shall file a report and
recommendation with the Department Executive Committee for its action thereon at its next meeting.
Section 7. Proceedings relating to the cancellation, suspension or revocation of a Post charter may also originate
with either the Department Commander or the Department Executive Committee.
Section 8. The action of the Department Executive Committee in rejecting any charge or charges against a Post
shall be final.
II. Resolution of Department Executive Committee

Section 1. Should the Department Executive Committee determine by a majority vote that the Post should
surrender its charter, said Department Executive Committee shall direct the defendant Post to surrender its
charter for cancellation, and shall pass a resolution that unless the charter is so surrendered, prior to the date
therein specified, a hearing and trial be held to determine whether the Post charter should be cancelled,
suspended or revoked, and said resolution shall include the following:
a. A statement that the Department Executive Committee has determined that a hearing and trial is warranted.
b. Authorization and direction to the Department Commander and Department Adjutant to sign a formal
complaint.

c. The names and addresses of the members of the subcommittee before which the hearing and the trial is to
be held.
d. The name and address of the Department Judge Advocate or special acting Department Judge Advocate
who is to assist the committee.
e. Authorization to the subcommittee to hire such stenographic or other help as may be necessary and to
incur such expense as may be necessary. Said expense, including the cost of stenographic report of the trial
when ordered to be transcribed by the subcommittee or the Department Executive Committee, shall be
taxed as costs against the Department, complainants or defendant Post in such manner and amount as the
Department Executive Committee shall prescribe.
f. That the subcommittee shall report its written findings of fact and recommendation to the Department
Executive Committee at its next meeting, provided, however, that if the hearing or trial is not completed, a
partial report shall be made.
III. Complaint
Section 1. In all cases, a formal complaint, in triplicate, shall be drawn by the Department Judge Advocate and
signed by The American Legion, through its Department Commander and Department Adjutant, setting forth
the following:
a. A clear and concise statement of the facts upon which the charges are predicted.
b. The origin of the charges.
c. A copy of the resolution of the Department Executive Committee appointing the subcommittee and its
assistants.
d. A copy of the Uniform Code of Procedure for the Revocation, Cancellation or Suspension of Post Charters.
e. The time within which an appearance or answer shall be filed by the Post, which shall be not less than 20 or
more than 60 days from the date of the service of a copy of the complaint.
f. The time and place for the hearing and trial, which shall not be more than 30 days after the date of the
expiration of the time for the filing of the answer.
Section 2. Any such complaint may be amended by the subcommittee of the Department Executive Committee
in its discretion at any time upon such terms as may be deemed just in the opinion of the said subcommittee.
IV. Service
Section 1. The subcommittee shall cause a true copy of the complaint to be served on the defendant Post.
Section 2. All complaints, orders and other process and papers of the subcommittee or the Department
organization of The American Legion may be served personally, or by registered mail, or by leaving a copy
thereof at the principle office or Headquarters of the intermediate body or Post, or place of residence of the
person or officer to be served. The verified return by the individual serving the same showing service thereof in
the manner herein provided, or the registry return receipt shall be proof of service.
Section 3. All notices, orders, papers or other process which are to be served on the Department
Headquarters of The American Legion, or the subcommittee appointed to conduct the trial, shall be deemed
served if they are served on the Department Adjutant at Department Headquarters, said service to be made as
herein above provided.
Section 4. Witnesses may be summoned by a notice signed by either the special acting Department Judge
Advocate, the Department Judge Advocate, or by a member of the subcommittee.
V. Answer
Section 1. The defendant Post shall file an answer to said complaint with the Department Judge Advocate
at Department Headquarters within the time specified in the complaint. The answer shall contain a clear and
concise statement of the facts which constitute its defense. Any charge or specification in the complaint which is
not expressly denied or explained in the answer shall be deemed to be admitted.

Section 2. In the event that the complaint is amended during the course of the hearing or trial, the defendant
shall be furnished with a copy of such amendment, and may file an amended answer to the said amended
complaint within five days thereafter.
VI. Subcommittee
Section 1. The subcommittee to hear and try and make written findings of fact and recommendations with
reference to the matter of the cancellation, suspension or revocation of the Post charter shall be appointed by
the Department Executive Committee and shall consist of not less than three (3) members of the Department
Executive Committee. No member of the Post under investigation shall be a member of such subcommittee.
Section 2. Should no member of the subcommittee be a lawyer, opinions on questions of law may be obtained
from the Department Judge Advocate.
Section 3. A majority of the members of the subcommittee shall constitute a quorum. If for any reason there is
less than a quorum, the hearing shall be adjourned until a quorum is present.
Section 4. The duties of the Department Judge Advocate or special acting Department Judge Advocate shall be
to see that the trial is prompt, complete and thorough, make all arrangements for the hearings, the summoning
of all witnesses and the production of all papers. He shall see that all the orders of the subcommittee shall be
carried out. He shall examine and cross-examine all witnesses.
VII. Hearing and Trial

Section 1. The rules of evidence prevailing in courts of law and equity shall not be controlling. The
subcommittee shall decide all questions arising as to relevancy of the evidence and the regularity of the
proceedings.
Section 2. The subcommittee may hold its hearings in closed sessions or may open them to the public. The
subcommittee shall hear witnesses on oath or affirmation.
Section 3. Any party to the proceeding shall have the right to appear at such hearing in person, by counsel or
otherwise, subject to such reasonable restrictions as may be placed on this right by the subcommittee, and to
examine and cross-examine witnesses and to introduce documentary or other evidence.
Section 4. Stipulations of fact may be introduced in evidence with respect to any issues.
Section 5. Objection to the conduct of the hearing shall be stated orally together with a short statement of the
grounds of such objection and included in the stenographic report of the hearing.
Section 6. Any party to the proceedings shall be entitled to a reasonable period at the close of the hearing for
oral argument, which shall not be included in the stenographic report of the hearing. Briefs may be filed by the
parties within the time fixed by the subcommittee.
Section 7. In the discretion of the subcommittee, the hearings may be continued from day to day, or adjourned
to a later date, or to a different place by announcement thereof at the hearing by the chairman or vice-chairman
of the subcommittee or by other appropriate notices.
Section 8. A stenographic report of the trial shall be made.
VIII. Report of Subcommittee

Section 1. The subcommittee, after it has completed its hearings, shall file the complete report of the
proceedings had upon the trial, together with its written findings of fact and recommendations with reference
thereto with the Department Adjutant not less than five (5) days before the next meeting of the Department
Executive Committee, all of which shall be open to the inspection of all members of the Department Executive
Committee, as well as representative or representatives of the defendant Post.
Section 2. The Department Executive Committee shall consider said report and act thereon.
Section 3. At the Department Executive Committee meeting at which the report of the said subcommittee is to
be considered, one representative of the defendant Post may, within the discretion of the Department Executive
Committee, be given the privilege of the floor for not more than one hour.

Section 4. Should the subcommittee’s report be a partial report, the Department Executive Committee may
continue the committee and authorize it to hold further hearings and present its final report at the next meeting
of the Department Executive Committee.
IX. Appeal
Section 1. Should the Department Executive Committee refuse to cancel, suspend or revoke the charter of the
Post, such decision shall be final and no appeal can be taken there from.
Section 2. Should the Department Executive Committee, upon a report of its subcommittee, cancel, suspend
or revoke the charter of the defendant Post, the defendant Post and the National Adjutant shall be notified
by the Department Adjutant of the decision of the Department Executive Committee, which notice shall be
mailed within five (5) days after such decision has been rendered. Should the defendant Post desire to appeal
from the decision of the Department Executive Committee, it shall serve its notice of appeal, signed by the Post
Commander and Post Adjutant, on the Department Adjutant at Department Headquarters within thirty (30) days
from the date of said suspension, cancellation or revocation.
Section 3. Upon receipt of said notice of appeal, the Department Commander shall immediately notify the
National Commander of such appeal and shall cause the Department Judge Advocate, or acting Department
Judge Advocate, and the subcommittee to submit all the papers and the complete record of the hearings
to the National Commander. Upon receipt of the notice of appeal, the National Commander shall appoint a
subcommittee of not more than five (5) nor less than three (3) members of the National Executive Committee for
the purpose of hearing the appeal from the action of the Department Executive Committee.
Section 4. The National Executive Committeeman, or alternate, from the Department of which the defendant
Post is a part, shall not be eligible to serve on this committee.
Section 5. This subcommittee of the National Executive Committee shall meet at least one day prior to the
meeting of the National Executive Committee and to this committee the National Commander shall refer the
complete record, in writing, of said proceedings with such exceptions thereto as are made by the defendant Post.
Section 6. This subcommittee may make its recommendations merely from the records, or it may permit
representatives of the Department or the defendant Post to appear and argue the matter before the committee,
and it may, as such hearing of such appeal, take further evidence relating thereto under such rules and
conditions as it may from time to time adopt.
Section 7. This subcommittee shall review the cause and recommend to the National Executive Committee the
action to be taken thereon.
Section 8. The decision of the National Executive Committee, based upon the report of this subcommittee, shall
be final and there shall be no appeal there from.
Section 9. The cost of the proceeding may be re-taxed as the National Executive Committee shall deem just and
equitable.

PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE IN THE EXPULSION OR
SUSPENSION OF A MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN LEGION
(may be revised and changed by subsequent action of the National Executive Committee)
Many departments and posts of The American Legion have failed to adopt a method of practice and procedure
on the suspension or expulsion of a member. The following is not mandatory for any post or department, but is
offered as a guide or form to follow. It is approved by the National Executive Committee.
Article IV, Section 2 of the By-Laws of The American Legion is as follows: “A Post may suspend or expel a Post
member from The American Legion only after providing the member due process and a proper showing of cause.
Charges shall be based upon disloyalty, neglect of duty, dishonesty and/or conduct unbecoming a member of The
American Legion. All charges must be made under oath in writing by the accusers, and no member in good standing
shall lose their membership until given a fair trial by the Post or Department in such manner and form as the Post or
Department By-Laws and Post or Department Executive Committee shall prescribe.”
I. Process
The first process in all actions of expulsion or suspension against a member of The American Legion in good
standing shall be by filing with the adjutant of the post written charges in triplicate, properly verified by affidavit
of the accuser or accusers.
II. Writ — When Returnable When Written Charges Are Filed

The adjutant shall issue a writ dated upon the day it shall be issued and sign it, directed to the sergeant-at-arms
(or some other member of the post in good standing), commanding that person to summon the accused to
appear at the post meeting place at the next regular meeting (providing 15 days have intervened), to show
cause why he should not be suspended or expelled (as the case may be).
III. Service — Return

It shall be the duty of the sergeant-at-arms, or the member appointed, to serve the writ so issued, by reading it
to the accused and at the same time delivering to the member a verified copy of the charges filed. The person
serving the writ shall endorse upon said writ the time and manner of serving it and immediately thereafter file
the same with the Post adjutant.
IV. Alias Writ

Whenever it shall appear by the return that the accused is not found fifteen (15) days, or more, previous to
the regular post meeting, the adjutant, at the request of the accuser, shall issue another writ and so on until
service is had.
V. Failure to Make Return

If the sergeant-at-arms, or the member to who a summons is delivered, shall neglect or refuse to make return of
same within the time required in Paragraph 4, another summons shall be issued, directed to some other member
in good standing for service as herein above set forth.
VI. Service by Publication

Whenever the accuser shall file with the adjutant of the post in which the charges are pending, an affidavit
showing the accused has gone out of the state or on due inquiry cannot be found or is concealed within the
state so that process cannot be served upon the intended, and stating the place of residence of such accused, if
known, or that upon diligent inquiry the place of residence cannot be ascertained, the adjutant of the post shall
cause publication to be made in the county where the post is located and if there be no newspapers published
in said county, then in the nearest newspaper published in the state containing notice of the pendency of such
charges before said post, the names of the accused and the accuser, and the time and place of the hearing of
said charges. Within two days of the first publication of such notice, the adjutant of said post shall send a copy

thereof by mail addressed to the accused if the place of residence is stated in said affidavit; said notice shall be
published at least once each week for three successive weeks.
VII. Charges
The accuser or accusers must be members of the same post as the accused and shall set forth the charges of
disloyalty, neglect of duty, dishonesty and conduct unbecoming a member of The American Legion in terms of
simplicity and understanding in order the accused may properly prepare a defense.
VIII. Accused to Enter His/Her Appearance in Writing

Before the accused defends in his/her own proper person, or through counsel, he/she shall enter an appearance
by filing an answer to said charges on or before the date of the regular meeting to which the accused has been
summoned to appear.
IX. Failure to Answer

If the accused fails to answer the charges, in manner and form as herein last set forth, the charges and matters
and things therein stated shall be taken as confessed and the prayer for expulsion or suspension granted.
X. Date of Trial
Whenever the accused enters an appearance by filing an answer to the charges preferred, the entire proceedings
shall automatically be continued until the next regular post meeting, at which time the trial shall be had.
XI. Continuance
Either party may apply for a continuance before the day set for trial, however, it shall be accompanied by a
written motion, supported by affidavit of the party so applying. Good and substantial cause must exist before
said motion is granted. The presiding judge advocate shall pass on said motion.
XII. Trial — Post Judge Advocate to Preside

The post judge advocate shall preside at the trial, and shall have the power and authority to pass upon the
materiality and relevancy of all the evidence presented, and shall have general power to prescribe the necessary
and reasonable rules and regulations for the orderly procedure of said trial.
XIII. Post Judge Advocate Vacancy

In case of death, removal, vacancy, resignation or disability of the post judge advocate, it shall be the duty of
the department commander, when duly notified by the post adjutant, to appoint a special judge advocate in
the department to fill the vacancy. Such special judge advocate so appointed shall have the authority, right and
powers of a duly elected post judge advocate. The post shall bear the expenses of any special judge advocate.
XIV. Post Officers and Executive Committee to Act as Jurors

The post officers and the post executive committee are hereby selected as jurors to ascertain under the guidance
of the judge advocate the truth of the charges preferred. Their province is strictly limited to questions of fact, and
within that province they are still further restricted to the exclusive consideration of the matters that have been
proven by evidence of the interested parties in the course of the trial. Their decision shall be reduced to writing
and filed with the post adjutant, who, in turn, shall enter the same in the post records.
XV. Causes of Challenge

If any post officer or any member of the executive committee, or any other member selected as a juror, shall
state he/she cannot fairly and impartially render a verdict therein in accordance with the evidence, and the
presiding judge advocate shall be satisfied of the truth of such statement, said member or members shall be
challenged for cause.

XVI. Peremptory Challenge
Each party shall be entitled to challenge of two jurors without showing cause for such challenge.
XVII. When a Post Has No Executive Committee

When a post has no executive committee, the presiding judge advocate shall direct the sergeant-at-arms to
summon five members of the post to sit as jurors in their place.
XVIII. Duty of Sergeant-at-Arms

If any member is challenged peremptorily or for cause, or if any post officer or member of the executive
committee shall be absent from said trial, the presiding judge advocate shall direct the sergeant-at-arms to
summon a sufficient number of members of the post to sit as jurors in their place.
XIX. If Sergeant-at-Arms Not Present, etc.

If the sergeant-at-arms is not present at said trial or upon objection of either party to the cause to the sergeant-
at-arms summoning a sufficient number to fill the vacancies, the presiding judge advocate shall appoint a special
sergeant-at-arms to summon the necessary persons to act as jurors.
XX. Members Insufficient to Fill Panel

When the membership of the post, through cause or otherwise, is insufficient in number to make a full panel
for jury service, the trial shall be continued until the next regular post meeting. The post adjutant, within five
(5) days thereafter, shall transmit such information to the department commander, who shall, before the next
regular meeting of the post, cause the sergeant-at-arms of said post to summon a sufficient number of members
of The American Legion from the body of the county in which the post is located to fill the vacancies.
XXI. Amendments
At any time before a final decision is made by the jury upon the trial of a member upon expulsion or suspension,
amendments may be allowed by the presiding judge advocate upon such terms as are just and reasonable.
XXII. Number Necessary to Expel or Suspend

To expel or suspend a member of The American Legion in good standing, two-thirds of the members selected to
sit as jurors shall vote in the affirmative.
Article IV, Section 3 of the By-Laws of The American Legion is as follows: “Any member who has been suspended
or expelled has the right of appeal to their Department Executive Committee, or to the Department Convention,
according to the provisions in the By-Laws of such Department. The decision of the Department shall be final.”
I. Time for Appeal

Within forty (40) days after judgment of expulsion or suspension is made and recorded, the accused ONLY may
take an appeal in manner and form as set forth in Article IV, Section 3 of the By-Laws last mentioned.
II. Stenographic Report

Either party demanding a stenographic report of the trial shall pay for the same, and when said report is
completed, it shall be the duty of the presiding judge advocate, on appeal, to examine the same and if correct,
officially certify to the correctness of such report, and the same shall be immediately filed with the department
adjutant, who, in turn, shall present the same to the department executive committee or the department
convention officials, according to the by-laws of such department. All matters and things contained in such
stenographic report shall become a part of the record and shall be considered in the final decision by the
department. In addition to the stenographic report, all interested parties shall have the further right of
appearing in person, or by counsel, and present further evidence and arguments upon such final hearing.

III. Notice by Department Adjutant Upon Request
When an appeal is taken by accused, in compliance with Article IV, Section 3 of the By-Laws of The American
Legion, it shall be the duty of the accused to obtain from the department adjutant the date of the executive
committee meeting or department convention and the exact time and place of such hearing on appeal. This
notice should be given if possible at least ten (10) days before the meeting or convention.
IV. Appeal — Department Judge Advocate to Preside

Upon appeal the department judge advocate shall preside at the trial, and shall have the power and authority
to grant a continuance to either party if deemed for the best interest of the Legion; to pass upon the materiality
and relevancy of all the evidence presented and shall have general power to prescribe the necessary and
reasonable rules and regulations for the orderly procedure of said trial.
V. No Further Appeal
The decision reached by the department executive committee or department convention shall be final.
VI. Effect of Decision

Where an appeal is taken by the accused and the department executive committee or department convention
sustains the appeal, the expelled member automatically becomes a member in good standing of said post, and
it is mandatory the adjutant reinstate said member upon the post membership roll. Any post failing to comply
with this provision is subject to having its charter suspended or revoked.
Article IV, Section 4 of the National Constitution of The American Legion is as follows: “No person, who has
been expelled from The American Legion by a Post, and such expulsion reported by the Department to the National
Headquarters within thirty (30) days, shall be admitted to membership in another Post without the consent of
the expelling Post, except that where such consent has been asked for and denied by such Post, such person may
then appeal to the Executive Committee of the Department of the expelling Post for permission to be admitted to
membership in another Post, and shall be ineligible for membership until such permission is granted.”
Emblem Sales
Emblem Sales offers a variety of merchandise, including American Legion and Auxiliary caps, uniforms,
gifts for outgoing officers, bookkeeping materials, flags, apparel and more. Catalogs go to every post
commander, post adjutant and unit president, and additional copies are available at emblem.legion.org or
by calling toll-free (888) 453-4466.
Additionally, Emblem Sales has been delegated, by the national adjutant, the task of administering use of
the emblem on manufactured goods. The name and emblem of The American Legion are registered service
marks in the U.S. Trademark Office and are protected by criminal and civil enforcement provisions of federal
law (18 U.S.C. S 705 and 36 U.S.C. SS 21704 and 21705). However, by authority of Resolution No. 1 passed
in May 2018, the national organization may grant permission to use the name and emblem in accordance
with Resolution No. 1, other resolutions and U.S. trademark law.
For permission to be granted, a request must be submitted in writing through the department adjutant,
who will forward the request to Emblem Sales. The following information must be included with the
request: 1) name and address of requesting post, 2) name and address of manufacturer, 3) description of
item to be manufactured, 4) quantity to be manufactured, 5) cost of each, 6) assurances that the item is
made in the United States, and 7) purpose for which the item is to be used (post use, not purchased for
re-sale). Authority may then be granted on a one-time basis only; additional orders require new authority,
and the manufacturer must not produce more items than those being ordered.

Use of the American Legion emblem
Individuals The use of the emblem by an individual Legionnaire is limited to the wearing of the official
insignia and to the possession of authorized jewelry or merchandise bearing the insignia.
Posts and departments Posts may only use the emblem or reproduction of the emblem on stationery,
post publications, notices, posters or placards, or in matters of similar character in the ordinary routine and
conduct of legitimate post business.
Any other use of the name “The American Legion” or the emblem shall be subject to the approval of the
national adjutant, in accordance with Resolution No. 1.
Trademark law compliance All programs, associations and corporations using the name and emblem
of The American Legion may only do so with permission, regardless of whether or not they are a separate
legal entity. In addition, all programs, associations and corporations using the name and emblem of The
American Legion must satisfy the “constant and continuous control requirement” of U.S. Trademark Law.
Request for use of The American Legion name or emblem on merchandise

The name and emblem of The American Legion are registered with the U.S. Trademark Office and are
protected by criminal and civil enforcement provisions of federal law (18 U.S.C. S 705 and 36 U.S.C. SS 21704
and 21705). By authority of Resolution No. 1, passed in May 2018, the national adjutant or designated
representative (Emblem Sales director) may grant limited permission to use the name and emblem in
accordance with Resolution No. 1, other resolutions and U.S. trademark law.
To gain permission for limited use of the name or emblem, complete the form on page 115 and send it to
department headquarters, which will forward it to Emblem Sales.
Note: The member or post purchasing the merchandise must request permission, and permission is
granted directly to U.S. manufacturers only.
Any permission granted is on a one-time basis for a given quantity. Additional orders will require new
authority, and the manufacturer must not produce more items than ordered. Permission is given with the
caveat that all material used will specifically identify the post. If the merchandise requested is available
through Emblem Sales, you will receive a quote for the merchandise or a one-time limited permission. If
the merchandise is not available through Emblem Sales, you will receive a one-time limited permission or
denial of permission. You may purchase directly from approved American Legion licensees or their retail
outlets. For a list of current approved licensees of The American Legion, visit emblem.legion.org.
The American Legion Name and Emblem Use and Protection Guide can be downloaded free at
legion.org/publications or purchased at emblem.legion.org.

Request for a limited licensed use of the American Legion name and/or emblem(s)
The name and emblems of The American Legion are registered service marks in the U.S. Trademark Office and protected by
criminal and civil provisions of federal law (18 U.S.C.S 705 and 36 U.S.C.SS 21704 and 21705). Under authority of the National
Executive Committee’s May 2018 Resolution No. 1, the national adjutant or designated representative (currently only the director
of American Legion Emblem Sales), may grant permission for a limited licensed use of the name and/or emblem(s) of The
American Legion for use in accordance with the NEC’s May 2018 Resolution No. 1 and U.S. Trademark Law.
To request this limited licensed use of the name and/or emblem(s) of The American Legion, complete this form and forward it to
your department adjutant. Your department adjutant will forward the completed form to The American Legion’s Emblem Sales
Division. Please note that the member, or post, requesting the name and/or emblem(s) use must specifically define the intended
use, identify the specific post and quantity desired. The limited license, if granted, will only apply to the listed manufacturer.
Any name and/or emblem(s) limited license granted is given on a one-time use for the specific quantity listed. Any additional
quantity over this number will require a new request, as the manufacturer is strictly prohibited from producing more items
than that being authorized. This limited license requires that all items are specifically manufactured as requested and National
Headquarters may request a sample item.
Please note that if this limited license request is for merchandise available through American Legion Emblem Sales, your request
will be denied. If the merchandise is not available through American Legion Emblem Sales, you may receive a limited license
for the merchandise manufacture. Please note that if you are denied permission you may still be able to purchase merchandise
directly from an approved American Legion licensee or their retail outlets. To view a list of currently approved American Legion
licensees, go to emblem.legion.org. The form can also be completed online at legion.org/emblem/request.
Fill out this form completely and fax, email or mail to your department headquarters.
PURCHASER INFORMATION MANUFACTURER INFORMATION

Post number Name of business
Address Address
City State ZIP City State ZIP
Contact person Contact person
Member ID # Telephone #
Telephone # Evening # Email
Email Product in all parts made in U.S.A.

If not, please attach explanation.  Yes  No
Product description Imprint instructions: provide sketch or attach artwork.
Quantity Price
Purpose/use of item
Signature
DEPARTMENT USE FOR OFFICE USE ONLY NATIONAL USE
 Recommend Approval  Approved

 Recommend Denial  Denied
 SAMPLE REQUIRED TO BE SENT TO
AMERICAN LEGION NATIONAL HQ
__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________
Department Adjutant National Adjutant or Designated Representative (Emblem Director)
THIS FORM MAY BE DUPLICATED – 5/20/2020

Military equipment
Be advised that all requests for surplus military equipment must first go through your department
headquarters to verify the legitimacy of the post making the request and then to The American
Legion’s Washington office (Director, National Security Division, American Legion National
Headquarters, 1608 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20006).
Regulations, procedures and prices for obtaining blank ammunition, surplus rifles and other military
equipment available for donation are subject to change without notice.
The U.S. Army TACOM website, tacom.army.mil/ilsc/donations, is a good source for questions on the
military weapons and equipment program. It has a “frequently asked questions” section for reference
purposes.
The department and the Washington office may only handle requests from chartered American Legion posts
in good standing that have accountability and storage procedures for firearms and munitions which are
in accordance with local and state laws. Posts will make requests through their department headquarters.
Contact the department headquarters for the Request for Ceremonial Rifle(s) and/or Ammunition form. A
copy of the request form is also found in the Department Adjutant’s Administrative Manual. The post must
attach the form to post letterhead stationery with the post commander’s or adjutant’s signature. This should
be sent to department headquarters for submission to the Washington office.
Departments must verify the eligibility of the post and validate current weapons and munitions
accountability and storage procedures. Once verification by the department is complete, the request is
forwarded to the Washington office, which forwards it to the appropriate agencies for processing. When
requests are made to congressional offices or other military departments without proper verification and
endorsement, the acquisition process slows. Separate letters must be sent for each type of equipment
requested. If both rifles and ammunition are needed, separate requests should be forwarded to the
department and then to the Washington office, as two different government agencies – the Joint Munitions
Command in Rock Island, Ill., and U.S. Army TACOM (Life Cycle Management Command) in Warren, Mich. –
will be handling the items.
These requirements are set forth in new policies and procedures established by the Army. Any
correspondence lacking any of these items will be returned to the post and cause a delay in processing.
Posts are reminded that equipment donated by the Department of the Army to American Legion posts
remains the property of the U.S. Army. Transfer of any equipment obtained through the Ceremonial Rifle
and Static Display Program is unauthorized without the written permission of TACOM.
Once TACOM receives the properly endorsed request (forwarded to it by The American Legion’s Washington
office), processing will begin and an eligibility package will be sent to the post. The package will include the
checklist and forms required for completion by the post commander or adjutant. Return the original forms
to TACOM. At this time, it takes approximately 90 days for rifles to be shipped after receipt of the eligibility
requirements from the post.
Forms in the eligibility package are also explained and found on TACOM’s website,
tacom.army.mil/ilsc/donations.
• Conditional Deed of Gift – This deed is a contract between the post and the Army, outlining
responsibilities concerning the retention, maintenance and conditions for the rifles. The ranking post
official is required to sign the deed, have it notarized and send the original to the Army Donations
Program Office. The deed also is proof that the requesting post is authorized to be the custodian for
the ceremonial use of the U.S. Army-owned rifles. This document is required prior to the shipment of
ceremonial rifles or prior to the issue of blank ammunition.

• Ceremonial Rifle Inventory Form – It is a requirement to record the model, manufacturer and serial
number of each and every weapon received within 30 days of receipt. This allows for an accurate
record and catalog of the U.S. Army rifles in your possession. In the unlikely event of a theft or loss
of a weapon, the inventory aids in the accurate reporting of the missing weapon(s) to the local law
enforcement agency for investigation. NOTE: It is a requirement to report the loss of any weapon
to the appropriate local authorities and to the Army Donations Program Office within 24 hours
of discovery.
The Ceremonial Rifle Inventory Form is also used as the required reporting document. The inventory
confirms the membership of the post has possession of the U.S. Army rifles, they wish to retain them, and
they are properly caring for them. If at any time the post wishes to return the rifles, the form may be used
for that purpose. The form should be resubmitted every three years based upon the agreement date
of the Conditional Deed of Gift.
The Army Donations Program Office may require additional documentation to qualify the
organization to receive or to retain U.S. Army rifles, which is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Posts receiving surplus equipment, rifles, static display items, etc., can expect periodic inspections to assure
accuracy of donor information and compliance with the terms of this Conditional Deed of Gift, the proper
storage and handling of such items, etc. Ceremonial rifle inventories are conducted at the time of issue
(submit Conditional Deed of Gift) and then every three years or as requested on a Ceremonial Rifle
Inventory Form; static displays are conducted at the time of issue and every year or as requested.
This program is at no cost to the government, and even though posts have paid for handling, shipping,
packaging, crating, etc., the items are on “conditional loan” from the Department of the Army.
Posts being considered for cancellation – The department must verify that the post has no military
equipment (static, rifles or munitions) on loan from the government. If so, proper procedures must be
followed for return prior to recommendation of the cancellation.
Rifles
Under the provisions of Public Law 1028, Title 10, U.S. Code (USC) 4683, the Secretary of the Army,
under regulations prescribed, may conditionally lend or donate excess M-1 rifles (not more than 15 per
organization), slings and cartridge belts to any eligible organization for use by that organization for funeral
ceremonies of a member or former member of the U.S. Armed Forces, and for other ceremonial purposes.
The American Legion is authorized to handle requests only from chartered American Legion posts in
good standing. The Army Donations Program Office in Warren, Mich., is responsible for issuing and the
management of rifle distribution for ceremonial use. Title 10, USC 4683 allows conditions to be imposed on
the use of the rifles as may be necessary to ensure security, safety and accountability. The Secretary of the
Army may impose such other conditions as considered appropriate.
A post with more than 15 ceremonial rifles is required to return to the Army the balance of the rifles
to be in compliance with federal law. In such cases, the post will request disposition instructions
from the Army Donations Program Office. No further ceremonial rifles or ammunition will be issued
until the post is compliant.
A post wishing to obtain rifles for ceremonial use must forward its request through its department
headquarters to The American Legion’s Washington office. The request form found in the current edition
of the Department Adjutant’s Administrative Manual, requires a physical address (not a P.O. Box number),
a telephone number, a contact person, the number of active members, and the post commander’s or
adjutant’s signature. State the number of rifles desired, up to a maximum of 15. Failure to include any
requirement will result in the letter of request being returned to the post. The request is endorsed by
the department adjutant and The American Legion’s Washington office of the National Security Division
director, stating that the post is chartered and in good standing and eligible to participate in the
ceremonial rifle program. It is forwarded to U.S. Army TACOM Life Cycle Management Command, Attn:

AMSTA-LCL-IWD, M/S: 419D, 6501 East 11 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48397-5000 for processing. Emails
are sent to usarmy.detroit.tacom.mbx.ilsc-donations@mail.mil and the Army Donations Program
general office telephone line is (586) 282-9861.You are required to leave one voicemail message. Your call
is returned in the order of receipt within three business days. Email requests cannot be processed, as the
signed original document must be forwarded. For more information, go to the Army Donations Program
website at tacom.army.mil/ilsc/donations/index.html?p=rifle.
Currently, surplus M1 Garand rifles are available for ceremonial use on a conditional basis. These rifles are
shipped from the Civilian Marksmanship Program. Normal overnight FedEx Ground delivery is between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Ceremonial rifles remain the property of the U.S. government.
The rifles cannot be loaned, sold, transferred or given to anyone else without the written approval of
the Army Donations Program office.
If for any reason the post no longer requires the use of the conditionally loaned rifles, submit a written
request to U.S. Army TACOM Life Cycle Management Command, Attn: AMSTA-LCL-IWD, M/S: 419D,
6501 East 11 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48397-5000. NEVER return any weapons to TACOM.
In most cases, the Army Donations Program Office will request prepaid shipping labels, which are sent to
the requester from the Civilian Marksmanship Program to assist with the return of rifles. After the rifles are
returned, provide a copy of the receipt to TACOM for validation of the return. In turn, it will send a letter to
absolve the post of responsibility and accountability for the returned rifles.
If rifles are no longer in the possession of the post, it is a requirement to state what happened to them.
Either a police and/or fire department report or notarized statement signed by the commander describing
the circumstances surrounding their loss and the action(s) taken to recover the rifles is required. Send this
information to TACOM for review. After review, a determination is made as to the liability for the missing/
lost/stolen rifles. The post will be notified if reimbursement costs are required. An inventory is required
every three years from the date of issue or upon request. All care and maintenance of the conditionally
loaned rifles is the post’s responsibility.
Slings are not provided through the Army Donations Program Office. The post may order them from
Amherst Arms or Fulton Armory. Contact Amherst Arms at (941) 475-2020 or amherst-depot.com,
or Fulton Armory at (301) 490-9485 or fulton-armory.com. The Army does not endorse any specific
commercial source for rifle accoutrements.
Storage and security of ceremonial rifles

Storage of the ceremonial rifles is at the discretion of the post as long as it complies with local, state and
federal regulations. The organization lists the storage location on a completed Certificate of Arms Storage
form submitted and on file at TACOM. If there is a change, notify TACOM in writing.
Damaged or unserviceable M1 rifles

If M1 Garand rifles are no longer functioning, the post is required to have a licensed gun dealer or an armor-
er certify the serviceability of each weapon in question. The post must provide a report by model, manufac-
turer and serial number detailing what is wrong with each rifle and how much it costs to fix it with respect
to shooting blank ammunition. TACOM will determine if the cost to repair exceeds the cost to refurbish and
ship replacement rifles to the post. If it does not, the post is required to pay for the repair costs.
Blank ammunition
American Legion posts needing blank ammunition for ceremonial purposes can be assured of the best
possible service on requests, if they comply with the following instructions:
1. Direct a “Request for Ceremonial Rifle(s) and Ammunition” form through department headquarters to
the Washington office as outlined above.

2. Ammunition is now provided free of charge. Do not send checks or money orders.
3. It is preferred the ammunition be shipped to a residential address (not necessarily the commander
or the adjutant’s address) and not to the post. Provide a home delivery address (and a P.O. Box number if
applicable) in your written request along with a phone number for that residence or current cell phone
number. Indicate the amount of ammunition you wish to order (one case of 1,240, two cases of 2,480).
If you do not specify, you will receive only one case. If you order 8-rd clips, specify the quantity required.
Clips are shipped in multiples of 25 (minimum) up to 100. If you order clips and do not specify the
quantity, you will receive 25.
4. Currently, the only storage facility handling blank ammunition is in Missouri; orders will be shipped
from there. You should receive a letter indicating your order has been processed along with a tentative
ship date. Orders are usually received within five working days after shipment. FedEx Ground will not call
you to let you know it is on the way to deliver. A signature is required upon delivery. No orders should be
left at the door without a signature. If your post also requested 8-rd clips, be advised that the clips ship
from a different location than the blank ammunition.
5. Upon receipt of the above information from a post and verification by the department, The American
Legion’s Washington office will endorse the request, stating it is a chartered post in good standing and
eligible to participate in the program. The request, with endorsement, will be forwarded to Rock Island,
Ill., for processing. No further correspondence should be necessary.
Do not make multiple requests (ammunition, rifles and static display equipment) in the same letter,
as each request must be sent to a different agency. You can request clips through Rock Island, Ill., with
your ammunition request. State this in the request. Clips are also provided free of charge.
Issue of cartridge caliber .30 blank and clips

Only authorized organizations that have been issued weapons through the Ceremonial Rifle
Program at U.S. Army TACOM Life Cycle Management Command in Warren, Mich., are authorized
to order and receive blank ammunition and/or clips. If you have privately owned weapons or borrow
weapons from another organization, your organization is not eligible to receive blank ammunition and/or
clips through this program.
The use of ammunition obtained from sources other than the Joint Munitions Command is prohibited, as it
may result in damage to the rifle. More importantly, it could cause harm or serious injury to the user.
NOTE: The Rock Island, Ill., office will respond only to requests for caliber .30 blank ammunition or clips
from an officer of the post.
Your request for forms to order blank ammunition and/or clips can be by letter, fax, phone call or email.
Request forms must provide a home mailing address, the officer’s phone number, the post number, the
post’s city and state, and an email address (optional). Forms are sent to the officer’s residence, not to the
post. A new form must be requested each time you need to order blank ammunition and/or clips. It prefers
to ship ammunition to a residential address, not to the post.
• Ammunition sent is 1,240 rounds (two metal cans in a wooden box).
• Quantity is limited to two boxes (2,480 rounds) of ammunition.
Address your request for issue of AMSJM Form 725-2 to Commander Joint Munitions Command, Attn:
D Folland / MMD, 2695 Rolland Ave., Rock Island, IL 61299-6000, call (309) 782-4608 or toll free (877)
233-2515, fax (309) 782-7292, or email Dawn.L.Folland.civ@mail.mil.
Do not send money or checks. Ammunition and clips are provided free of charge (no shipping and
handling). All ammunition will be shipped via FedEx Ground from Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in

Independence, Mo., per direction from Rock Island Arsenal. Normal delivery is between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Monday through Friday. A signature is always required upon delivery.
Ammunition safety
In May 2013, two M1 Garand rifles blew apart during the rendering of funeral honors at the Ohio West-
ern Reserve National Cemetery. As a result, two American Legion members received serious injuries. This
mishap was caused by the inadvertent use of .30 caliber grenade cartridges instead of .30 caliber blank
cartridges. The significant physical difference between the two is that blank cartridges have six crimps and
grenade cartridges have five crimps.
grenade blank grenade blank

cartridge cartridge cartridge cartridge
(5 crimps) (6 crimps) (5 crimps) (6 crimps)
• Do not fire .30 caliber grenade cartridges in the M1 Garand rifle.
• Only .30 caliber blank ammunition received from U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command should
be fired.
• If an organization’s ammunition pedigree is unknown, that ammunition should be inspected for

the presence of grenade cartridges.
Direct questions pertaining to this issue to Robert Weissman, U.S. Army Armament Center (ARDEC),
Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., at (973) 724-3056 or robert.j.weissman.civ@mail.mil.
Policy and procedure for acquisition of combat equipment

for display and monumental purposes
The Army Donations Program Office may also conditionally provide obsolete or condemned Army combat
equipment, such as decommissioned tanks, vehicles and artillery pieces, under the provisions of Public
Law 100-456, Title 10 USC 2572. Equipment is for static display only and items are not issued in working
condition. This program does not have jeeps or vans for driving. Jeeps are currently no longer available
to the public. The Army Donations Program Office website is tacom.army.mil/ilsc/donations/index.
html?p=static.
All requests for tanks, field artillery pieces, mortars, etc., should be directed to your department
headquarters for verification of a post in good standing and then to Director, National Security Division,
The American Legion, 1608 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20006. This office is only authorized to process
requests from American Legion posts approved and verified as posts in good standing by their department.
Requests are to be made on post letterhead and list the post name and number, physical address (not a P.O.
Box number), telephone number, name of contact person, number of active members in the post, and the
signature of the post commander or adjutant.

Conditional donations of obsolete, condemned combat equipment for display are made at no expense to
the government. The costs for construction of a display site, limited demilitarization, removal of radiological
material (when applicable), release and transportation must be paid by the requesting organization.
For a display site, do not prepare a pad until notified in writing by the donations office. Once the
Washington office receives the request for a piece of equipment, it will be endorsed, stating the post is
chartered, in good standing and eligible to participate in the program. The request is forwarded to the
Army Donations Program Office at TACOM in Warren, Mich. The Washington office does not have any forms
or information as to what is available.
Once TACOM receives a request, it prepares an official packet and sends it to the post. The post then
reviews all rules, regulations and requirements, and makes a final decision if the equipment is still desired.
Unfortunately, at this time, Army equipment is not readily obtainable for use as a conditional static
donation. It is recommended a post submit its initial eligibility requirements to the donations office to
remain in an open status for a period of three years. If an asset does not become available within three
years, the request is canceled and your post will have to reapply.
The post is responsible for maintaining and displaying the Army asset in a way that honors and upholds
the image of the United States, its military and veterans. The post is required to submit an annual certificate
and a photograph of the displayed item on the anniversary date of the conditional issue. In the event
your organization no longer has a requirement to display the item, you are required to contact the Army
Donations Program Office for turn-in procedures. Posts are not authorized to loan, sell, transfer, move,
abandon or give the asset to any other individual or organization.
The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Program

The official flower of The American Legion is the poppy. As a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice, the poppy
is worn to honor the men and women who served and died for their country in all wars. Every May, Legion,
Auxiliary and SAL volunteers distribute millions of bright red crepe paper poppies for contributions to assist
disabled and hospitalized veterans. As the oldest and most widely recognized American Legion and American
Legion Auxiliary program, this campaign provides multiple benefits to veterans and their communities.
Resolution No. 20, “The American Legion Poppy Program,” passed by the National Executive Committee in May
2013, outlines the proper use, manufacture and distribution of the poppies and raised funds. All funds are
to be used for honorably discharged U.S. veterans; for the welfare of veterans’ families; for the rehabilitation
of hospitalized military personnel returning home and awaiting discharge who require treatment in service
hospitals; and for the welfare of veterans, active military personnel and their families where financial and
medical need is evident. Priority is to be given to veterans first in the manufacture of poppies.
All American Legion posts and SAL squadrons are encouraged to establish a poppy program following the
guidelines and procedures established by their respective departments.
Per Resolution No. 4, passed by the National Executive Committee in October 2016, The American Legion
and American Legion Auxiliary advocate for a congressional declaration establishing National Poppy Week,
starting the Monday before and continuing through Memorial Day, to bring greater significance to the
poppy as a symbol of veterans’ sacrifices for freedom.
HOW TO WRITE A RESOLUTION

Because resolutions adopted by your membership represent formal expressions of the official opinion
or will of the post, extreme care should be devoted to both their preparation and thought content. The
following guidelines and suggestions relate primarily to the form your post’s resolutions should take, rather
than their content. However, when considering resolutions, keep in mind that any proposal transmitted
beyond your post and within the organization of the Legion must be “germane” – that is, closely related to
the purpose for which The American Legion exists.

Resolutions requiring county, district or department consideration must be prepared and forwarded in
accordance with their respective regulations and by-laws. A well-written resolution stands a better chance
of ]favorable consideration at your county, district, or department convention than a resolution that is
vaguely worded, poorly documented and carelessly formulated.
From the standpoint of the policies and practices of The American Legion as a whole, resolutions are all-
important. The national organization cannot act on a given problem in the absence of a controlling resolution;
conversely, it must act on a matter when mandated to do so by a resolution that has been properly adopted
by the national convention or National Executive Committee. If your post seeks to be a leader in the policies
and practices of The American Legion, it can do so only through the resolution process.
Post procedures may vary

In some posts, the member who moves the adoption of a resolution must present it in writing at the time
the motion is offered. Other posts follow the practice of assigning one member, or a special committee, the
task of drafting or editing those resolutions to be sent forward for convention consideration. However, it
remains the responsibility of the post commander to make sure each resolution truly reflects the sense of
the action taken by the post – and is presented in the best possible form.
Except for certain details (noted in the discussion of resolving clauses below), the national organization
has not established an official style guide for the preparation of American Legion resolutions. However, the
National Executive Committee has expressed (Resolutions No. 20 and 21, May 1960) that certain general
considerations are applicable to all resolutions being forwarded for action by the national organization, as
follows:
1. A resolution should contain “supporting documents,” and its intent should be clearly defined.
2. A resolution should be free of errors of fact and law.
3. A resolution should have material relevance to the purposes and programs of The American Legion.
(On the latter point, the National Executive Committee specifically cautions Legion posts to beware of
becoming a channel through which non-Legion organizations seek to achieve their goals.)
A resolution should deal with only one subject. Those that attempt to treat more than one subject are
unwieldy to process at conventions, especially if they involve matters that do not fall within the jurisdiction
of a single committee of the convention. They are generally rejected or amended to delete reference to
more than one subject.
Resolutions have two major parts: a preamble and a resolving section. Each consists of one or more
clauses (paragraphs) and the whole is read in its entirety, beginning with the preamble, as one continuous,
complex sentence. The preamble sets forth the reasons for the resolution; the resolving section sets forth
the intent of the resolution.
Prepare preamble last

Although it precedes the resolving section in appearance, the preamble of a resolution should be prepared
after the resolving section is put into final form. Once the intent of the resolution has been clearly stated,
it is much easier to decide what statements need to be in the preamble to make clear the reasons for the
resolution. Also, during committee or floor debate, a preamble is always amended last because changes in
the resolution may require changes in the preamble.
The resolving section begins with the word “RESOLVED,” usually printed in capital letters and followed by
a comma. Between this opening word and the statement of the intent of the resolution, there should be
inserted the following information: (1) identification of resolving authority, (2) the circumstance and place
of the action, (3) date of the action. The first word after this information would be “That” with a capital “T.”

Examples:
“RESOLVED, By Post No. _________, The American Legion, Department of ________________, in regular (or
special) meeting assembled in (place and date), That ….”
This clause, referred to as the “resolving clause” (similar to the “enacting clause” of a law), should be uniform
for every resolution. For national convention and National Executive Committee resolutions, the resolving
clauses have been standardized as follows:
“RESOLVED, By The American Legion in National Convention assembled in (city and state), (date), That ….”
The word “That” immediately following the resolving clause introduces the clause, which is the object of the
verb “RESOLVED.” It aids the reader to find the point at which the meat of the resolution begins; it aids the
drafter of the resolution to launch a strong and unmistakable statement of intent.
Examples:
“RESOLVED, …. That The American Legion shall sponsor and support legislation to ….”
“RESOLVED, …. That The American Legion is opposed to repeal or weakening of ….”
Although each resolution should deal with only one subject, it is often necessary or desirable to attach
additional clauses (or paragraphs) to a resolution’s resolving section to cover matters that are closely
related to the main intent. This device is especially useful for spelling out the details of how and by whom
the intent of the resolution is to be carried out or accomplished.
Example:
“RESOLVED, By (etc.) … That (etc.) …; and, be it further
“RESOLVED, That (etc.) …; and, be it further
(add RESOLVED paragraphs as required) …; and, be it finally
“RESOLVED, That (etc.) ….”
As shown here, the identifying information is stated only once, in the first paragraph of the resolving
section of a resolution, and is not repeated in subsequent paragraphs. A period is used only once – at the
close of the last paragraph of the resolving section.
Construction of resolution preamble

The preamble of a resolution is made up of one or more clauses (or paragraphs), each of which begins with
“WHEREAS.” Two or more of these clauses are joined together by a semicolon followed by “and.”
Example:
“WHEREAS, The American Legion is an organization of war veterans who have dedicated themselves to the
service of the community, state and nation; and
“WHEREAS, This service is performed through The American Legion’s basic programs; and (etc.)”
Each clause in the preamble should contain a statement of fact that is logically related to the intent of
the resolution and explains and justifies the need for the resolution. Accuracy of each statement in the
preamble is critical because the intent must be based on fact not misinformation (“WHEREAS, Public Law
101-22 prohibits …” or “WHEREAS, Title 38, United States Code, authorizes …” or ”WHEREAS, In Texas v.
Johnson, 1989, the United States Supreme Court rule …” clearly identifies the source). Double-check facts
and attempt to document the source as much as possible. Providing supporting materials along with the

resolution would be helpful to respective reviewing commissions or committees. Each clause would stand
alone as a complete sentence if the “WHEREAS” were removed and a period were used in place of the
semicolon at the end.
The final clause of the preamble is joined to the resolving section of the resolution by a semicolon, followed
usually by the phrase “now, therefore, be it …” (acceptable variations in common usage are “therefore be it,”
or simply “be it”).
Example:
“WHEREAS, ..... (etc.) .....; and
“WHEREAS, ..... (etc.) .....; and
“WHEREAS, ..... (etc.) .....; now, therefore, be it
“RESOLVED, By ..... (etc.) ....., That ..... (etc.) .....”
Note: The “WHEREAS” may be set out in capital letters, italics, underscored, etc., depending on preference.
When capitalized, it is usually followed by a comma, and the first letter of the following word is capitalized.
There is no formula for deciding how many “WHEREAS” clauses a resolution should have. In general, the
fewer the better, provided the reason or reasons for the resolution are adequately stated. Most of the
good reasons for a resolution will have been stated during the debate for its adoption. Use them. It is not
necessary, however, to refer in the preamble to every fact or circumstance that has a bearing on the intent
of a resolution.
Study the resolving section and get the exact purpose of the resolution firmly in mind. Then start writing
down statements of fact which relate to this purpose. Organize them into a logical sequence (throwing out
the weak or unnecessary ones), and then put a “WHEREAS,” in front of each, a semicolon at the end of each,
plus the appropriate connecting word (“and”) or words (“now, therefore, be it”) for joining them to each
other and the resolving section. Do not use a period in the preamble.
When dealing with issues of legislative intent, do not use specific bill numbers. Address the legislative
intent of the bill. Bills are subject to amendments; thus, their legislative intent can change dramatically.
Instead of ”support H.R. 333,” for example, be more specific by saying ”support legislation that, if enacted,
would ….”
Resolutions are important business to The American Legion. Write them with thought and care.
Veteran of the Month

At the 75th National Convention in Pittsburgh in 1993, The American Legion passed Resolution No. 159,
officially adopting the Veteran of the Month program, which honors deceased veterans and fallen warriors
by flying their burial flags. Eligible honorees include deceased veterans with honorable discharges, U.S.
servicemembers who died on active duty, those who remain missing in action, and civilian employees of
the armed services who were granted veteran status.
The veteran’s personal history and military service are profiled in advance publicity, and read at the flag raising
and again at the flag-lowering service at the end of the month. The service includes “Taps,” along with the
folding and presentation of the burial flag in a protective case to a member of the deceased’s family.

Post and department histories
The American Legion strongly encourages the preparation of post and department histories. Such
information on their activities will be of considerable value in years to come.
National Headquarters is aware that a professional historian does not fill the position of historian in most
posts and departments. This need not prevent a proper recording of their activities. The scope of the
information included is the main consideration, keeping in mind, however, comprehensiveness, readability
and arrangement, so as to make the history both an interesting account and a reference source.
At the start of the new Legion year, the historian begins making a permanent record of the organization for
the year ahead, from the installation of officers up to and including the installation of next year’s officers.
To help gather specific details, ask the adjutant for a copy of the most recent Consolidated Post Report.
The statistical summary will indicate the type and amount of activity that can help you put together as
complete a picture as possible. Make plans to compile a complete post or department history since its
founding, but focus, for the moment, on a one-year history. Then go back to the files and gradually write up
the back story.
The national historian will conduct a one-year history contest for post- and department-level entries. One
post entry and one department entry may be submitted by each department. These ongoing national
contests will give stability and continuity to the recording of events for future generations of Legionnaires.
The department historian will notify posts of any national contest changes that may occur.
Included in this guide is an outline to compile a one-year history with judging standards for competition
in the national contests to be conducted in August 2024 for the 2023-2024 Legion year. Information on the
2023 contest is in the 2022 Officer’s Guide.
To be eligible for the national contest, an entry must be a first-place winner in the department’s contest, be
certified as such by the department adjutant and be uploaded by the department to the contest website by
Aug. 1. Department historians or adjutants need to contact the national historian or National Headquarters’
Library and Museum director for exceptions.
The work of collecting, preserving and recording the activities of The American Legion is an important
endeavor and demands much detail work; hopefully you will find it inspiring and rewarding. Contact the
department historian for additional ideas and information regarding department contest qualifications.
Outline for a one-year history

This outline has been developed to be helpful to the historian. It would be advantageous to check any
compilation against this outline to include as much of the material suggested here as possible.
Format
Presentation A single PDF file not to exceed 50MB in size (smaller files are preferred).
Title page This will be the first page when the file is opened. It should be in a logical arrangement with
double spacing or more and contain as a minimum the following:
History of
(Name of post) Post No. _______
Department of _______________
The American Legion
(city and/or state)
For 20_____ to 20____
By (person compiling history)

Introduction Every history should include a forward or introduction setting forth the reasons for the
organization and may include:
• Mention of the national organization’s founding (including the Preamble to the Constitution of The
American Legion) with a tie-in of the department’s and post’s history. See legion.org/history or “Capsule
History of The American Legion,” listed later, as a possible beginning, and see your department historian for
a capsule history of the department.
• If named for a departed comrade or comrades, include a short biographical sketch of their lives and
include available photographs.
• If possible, a brief résumé of your community’s history, especially the part played by that locality in
furnishing men and women during wars and conflicts.
• A photograph of the building and street address, if your post has a post home.
• Acknowledgment of any assistance or contributions used in compiling the history.
Table of contents This is a “must” for any good history, which will list the pages of the chapters and
appendices and should be in the front of the history immediately following the introduction.
Index The alphabetical index is a must for any good history. This comprehensive index of names, places
and events mentioned in your history, with page references, shall be at the end of the history following the
appendices. Be sure to include every person and activity in the history. If a person has a title, put that in
with a cross-reference to the name.
Page numbering Do not forget to number the pages. Be consistent in placing page numbers, either at the
top or bottom of pages.
Chapters
One-year summary history This should be a one-year chronicle. The history is to cover one year,
beginning with the installation of officers, up to and including the installation of the next year’s officers.
This timeframe may vary in some departments. This is the most important chapter in your history and
must be as complete as possible. The historian should relate all important events and programs conducted
during the year or events conducted jointly with the Auxiliary, Sons of The American Legion, or county,
district, department and national levels. Historians may use information from the minutes of meetings as a
basis for information about the post’s activities. Then contact members who were chairs of the committees
for further details. Include anything you deem a special attribute of the post, setting it apart from all others.
While many American Legion programs and projects are of a continuing nature and may run through
several administrations, such activities might be better covered in a separate chapter following those
devoted to the individual administration. The activities of all standing committees should be given
considerable coverage, particularly if one committee performs an outstanding service. You may want to
include each committee in separate chapters: Americanism, Membership, Boys State, School Award Medals,
Oratorical Contest, Junior Shooting Sports, Baseball, Children & Youth, Sons of The American Legion,
patriotic observances, parties, Boy Scout troops and other sponsored groups, to name a few.
Collect and record for posterity all activities, including photographs adds to the attractiveness of the entry.
Give attention to the arrangement of illustrations in relation to the text and use of captions (identification)
under each photograph.

Appendices
Appendices are pages of statistical data that should be carried at the end of the history, following the
chapters and before the index, and might include:
• Roster of officers – Photographs of current officers should be included in the history. If it is not possible
to obtain photographs of every officer, make a special effort to include photographs of the commander
and the adjutant.
• Roster of chairmen - Include a roster of chairs with photographs, if available.
• List of charter members and dates of temporary and permanent charters.
• A roster of all past commanders and adjutants since the charter date with their years served.
• Posts may want to add a roster of members listed in alphabetical order. This may include, after each
member’s name, the member’s branch of service or the date he or she joined the post.
• A record of the citations and awards received, as well as awards presented.
• A list of members who served as delegates to the national and department conventions, or national
and department officers and commission and committee appointees, including the county and district.
• Complete records of annual elections showing all nominations and votes received by various
nominees.
• Membership standings by year since the charter date, a list of new members for the current year,
a list of life members and Paid-Up-For-Life (PUFL) members, ”In Memoriam” (also known as Taps or
Post Everlasting) listings for the current year, the constitution and by-laws, the annual budget, and any
other important statistics.
Readability
The emphasis should be on the narrative rather than the statistical style of presentation. Use your
imagination, and be original in thought and presentation. A high degree of literary style is not essential
to success, but the method of presentation should be pleasing to the general reader. The reader must
be able to follow the story without difficulty or confusion. The most common error is in not writing in
the third person. This means you should write as an observer, not as a participant. The history should be
written as a chronological and detailed account of events arranged in order of time without any analysis
or interpretation. Statistics are of great value but should be included in the appendix rather than placed
indiscriminately throughout the book.
Photographs/illustrations
All photographs must be identified by occasion, individuals, date and place of event, with the exception of
individual photographs of officers and chairs (name and title/committee only). Provide left-to-right subject
identification, and if necessary, by row.
Be sure all photographs are clear, as blurry prints will not aid materially and will take away from rather than
enhance your history. Proper arrangement with the text is a must to achieve an eye-catching history book.
Avoid using pictures with alcohol or cigarettes in them.

Judges option/originality
Under this category, judges will consider a number of qualities or items of content in the history that are
not readily cataloged under the preceding headings. Some histories, for example, have a complete roster of
members. In other words, judges will determine features that make a history especially attractive or useful.
By the same token, if inaccuracies come to the judges’ attention, they would have a negative scoring effect.
Page format suggestions

Use a page format and layout that is accessible when viewed on multiple types of devices or when printed.
National judging standards

POST OR DEPT HISTORY JUDGING FORM
10 Points PRESENTATION Single PDF file with pleasing formatting and layout. This includes font,
margins, spacing, etc.
10 Points INTRODUCTION Background, tie-in with department and national, community, Preamble
to Legion Constitution, etc.
15 Points TABLE OF CONTENTS, INDEX AND PAGE NUMBERING Page reference of chapters,
appendices, etc.
15 Points ORGANIZATION Logical order, not to detract from general readability
20 Points NARRATIVE Rather than a statistical style of presentation
20 Points IMAGES All photographs are clear and must have names, occasions, sources, dates, etc.
Provide proper left-to-right identifications
10 Points JUDGES WILL CONSIDER qualities or content not readily cataloged under the preceding
headings including features that make a history especially attractive or useful as a source of
reference and historic value.
100 Points
Research suggestions
In the event that records are missing and there is no history, the post historian may search local newspaper
files and interview past commanders, adjutants and older members. Many important events can be found
using these methods.
Post adjutants and commanders can obtain information about post charter applications by contacting the
national charters clerk, Internal Affairs & Membership Division, at ia@legion.org.
The serious historian will find informative and interesting any one of the following published histories
about The American Legion:
• Michael J. Bennett’s “When Dreams Come True: The GI Bill and the Making of Modern America”
(Brassey’s, 1996)
• Thomas A. Rumer’s “The American Legion: An Official History” (M. Evans, 1990)
• Raymond Moley’s “The American Legion Story,” (Duell, Sloan & Pearce, 1966)
• Richard Jones’ “A History of The American Legion“ (Bobbs-Merrill, 1946)
• Marquis James’ “A History of The American Legion” (William Green, 1923)
Where possible, use digital voice recorders or video cameras to record oral histories and interviews of

American Legion leaders to capture firsthand information.
Helpful hints for district/county historians

Some departments use the district and county structures, and historians at both levels must make a team
effort to accomplish their respective responsibilities to posts in their jurisdiction. If you have been elected
or appointed district/county historian, your primary duty is to coordinate the records of post activities
within your district/county to ensure the preservation and accessibility of such records at all times.
Some departments conduct comprehensive spring and fall district meetings. If this is the case in your
department, make every effort to be allotted time on the program. Travel to posts within your district
with the district commander and his or her staff whenever possible, and speak at post meetings. Use
the spring meetings as your vantage point for administering a final “morale booster” to the work-shy
in your district. Emphasize the importance of adequate records and of giving all possible help and
encouragement to post historians.
Many district historians have had no experience in this type of work. In addition, many posts have
never tried to keep a history of any kind. You will have to begin by researching and compiling as much
information as possible from past records, then focus on keeping your own records current.
Be sure that every post in your district has a post historian and that they are kept informed of the latest
developments and material. It is your duty to give all possible aid to post historians within your district. If your
department conducts an annual post history contest, encourage the historians to enter. Your department
may conduct an annual district/county history contest. Naturally, some material suggested would not be
appropriate for district or county books.
Capsule history of The American Legion

A group of 20 officers who served in the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) in France during World
War I is credited with founding the Legion. AEF Headquarters asked the officers to suggest ideas on how
to improve troop morale. One officer, Lt. Col. Theodore Roosevelt Jr., proposed an organization of veterans.
In February 1919, the group formed a temporary committee and selected several hundred officers who
had the confidence and respect of the whole army. About 1,000 officers and enlisted men attended the
Paris Caucus in March 1919. They adopted a temporary constitution and the name “The American Legion.”
The group also elected an executive committee to complete the organization’s work. It considered each
soldier of the AEF a member of the Legion. The executive committee named a subcommittee to organize
veterans at home in the United States. In May 1919, the Legion held a second organizing caucus in St.
Louis. It completed the constitution and made plans for a permanent organization, setting up a temporary
headquarters in New York City and beginning its relief, employment and Americanism programs. Congress
granted the Legion a national charter in September 1919. The first national convention convened in
Minneapolis on November 10-12, 1919, adopting a permanent constitution and electing officers to head
the organization. Delegates also voted to locate the Legion’s national headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The Legion continues to support the four pillars of service and advocacy upon which it was founded:
Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children and Youth.
The American Legion’s centennial website

As part of The American Legion’s 100th anniversary celebration, a special website was created: legion.org/
centennial. Though the centennial is past, each post is encouraged to add its history. Post pictures and
histories are important to share with other posts, departments and the entire community. Ideally, every
post will be listed on the centennial website.

U.S. FLAG CODE
U.S. Code Title 4, Chapter 1
§ 4. Pledge of Allegiance to the flag; manner of delivery

The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag: “I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to
the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all,” should be
rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform, men
should remove any non-religious headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being
over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute.
§ 5. Display and use of flag by civilians; codification of rules and customs; definition
The following codification of existing rules and customs pertaining to the display and use of the flag of the
United States of America is established for the use of such civilians or civilian groups or organizations as may
not be required to conform with regulations promulgated by one or more executive departments of the
Government of the United States. The flag of the United States for the purpose of this chapter shall be defined
according to sections 1 and 2 of this title and Executive Order 10834 issued pursuant thereto.
§ 6. Time and occasions for display

(a) It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary
flagstaffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if
properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.
(b) The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.
(c) The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all weather
flag is displayed.
(d) The flag should be displayed on all days, especially on New Year’s Day, January 1; Inauguration Day, January
20; Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, the third Monday in January; Lincoln’s Birthday, February 12; Washington’s
Birthday, third Monday in February; Easter Sunday (variable); Mother’s Day, second Sunday in May; Armed Forces
Day, third Saturday in May; Memorial Day (half-staff until noon), the last Monday in May; Flag Day, June 14;
Father’s Day, third Sunday in June; Independence Day, July 4; National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day, July
27; Labor Day, first Monday in September; Constitution Day, September 17; Columbus Day, second Monday in
October; Navy Day, October 27; Veterans Day, November 11; Thanksgiving Day, fourth Thursday in November;
Christmas Day, December 25; and such other days as may be proclaimed by the President of the United States;
the birthdays of States (date of admission); and on State holidays.
(e) The flag should be displayed daily on or near the main administration building of every public institution.
(f ) The flag should be displayed in or near every polling place on election days.
(g) The flag should be displayed during school days in or near every schoolhouse.
§ 7. Position and manner of display

The flag, when carried in a procession with another flag or flags, should be either on the marching right; that is,
the flag’s own right, or, if there is a line of other flags, in front of the center of that line.
(a) The flag should not be displayed on a float in a parade except from a staff, or as provided in subsection (i) of
this section.
(b) The flag should not be draped over the hood, top, sides, or back of a vehicle or of a railroad train or a boat. When
the flag is displayed on a motorcar, the staff shall be fixed firmly to the chassis or clamped to the right fender.
(c) No other flag or pennant should be placed above or, if on the same level, to the right of the flag of the United
States of America, except during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea, when the church pennant
may be flown above the flag during church services for the personnel of the Navy. No person shall display the
flag of the United Nations or any other national or international flag equal, above, or in a position of superior
prominence or honor to, or in place of, the flag of the United States at any place within the United States or any

Territory or possession thereof: Provided, That nothing in this section shall make unlawful the continuance of the
practice heretofore followed of displaying the flag of the United Nations in a position of superior prominence
or honor, and other national flags in positions of equal prominence or honor, with that of the flag of the United
States at the headquarters of the United Nations.
(d) The flag of the United States of America, when it is displayed with another flag against a wall from crossed
staffs, should be on the right, the flag’s own right, and its staff should be in front of the staff of the other flag.
(e) The flag of the United States of America should be at the center and at the highest point of the group when a
number of flags of States or localities or pennants of societies are grouped and displayed from staffs.
(f ) When flags of States, cities, or localities, or pennants of societies are flown on the same halyard with the flag of
the United States, the latter should always be at the peak. When the flags are flown from adjacent staffs, the flag
of the United States should be hoisted first and lowered last. No such flag or pennant may be placed above the
flag of the United States or to the United States flag’s right.
(g) When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from separate staffs of the same height.
The flags should be of approximately equal size. International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation
above that of another nation in time of peace.
(h) When the flag of the United States is displayed from a staff projecting horizontally or at an angle from the
window sill, balcony, or front of a building, the union of the flag should be placed at the peak of the staff unless
the flag is at half-staff. When the flag is suspended over a sidewalk from a rope extending from a house to a pole
at the edge of the sidewalk, the flag should be hoisted out, union first, from the building.
(i) When displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union should be uppermost and to the flag’s
own right, that is, to the observer’s left. When displayed in a window, the flag should be displayed in the same
way, with the union or blue field to the left of the observer in the street.
(j) When the flag is displayed over the middle of the street, it should be suspended vertically with the union to
the north in an east and west street or to the east in a north and south street.
(k) When used on a speaker’s platform, the flag, if displayed flat, should be displayed above and behind the
speaker. When displayed from a staff in a church or public auditorium, the flag of the United States of America
should hold the position of superior prominence, in advance of the audience, and in the position of honor at the
clergyman’s or speaker’s right as he faces the audience. Any other flag so displayed should be placed on the left
of the clergyman or speaker or to the right of the audience.
(l) The flag should form a distinctive feature of the ceremony of unveiling a statue or monument, but it should
never be used as the covering for the statue or monument.
(m) The flag, when flown at half-staff, should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the
half-staff position. The flag should be again raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day. On Memorial
Day the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only, then raised to the top of the staff. By order of
the President, the flag shall be flown at half-staff upon the death of principal figures of the United States
Government and the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, as a mark of respect to their memory. In the
event of the death of other officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according to
Presidential instructions or orders, or in accordance with recognized customs or practices not inconsistent
with law. In the event of the death of a present or former official of the government of any State, territory,
or possession of the United States or the death of a member of the Armed Forces from any State, territory,
or possession who dies while serving on active duty, the Governor of that State, territory, or possession may
proclaim that the National flag shall be flown at half-staff and the same authority is provided to the Mayor of the
District of Columbia with respect to present or former officials of the District of Columbia and members of the
Armed Forces from the District of Columbia. When the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, or the Mayor
of the District of Columbia, issues a proclamation under the preceding sentence that the National flag be flown
at half-staff in that State, territory, or possession or in the District of Columbia because of the death of a member
of the Armed Forces, the National flag flown at any Federal installation or facility in the area covered by that
proclamation shall be flown at half-staff consistent with that proclamation. The flag shall be flown at half-staff 30
days from the death of the President or a former President; 10 days from the day of death of the Vice President,
the Chief Justice or a retired Chief Justice of the United States, or the Speaker of the House of Representatives;
from the day of death until interment of an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, a Secretary of an executive or
military department, a former Vice President, or the Governor of a State, territory, or possession; and on the day

of death and the following day for a Member of Congress. The flag shall be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers
Memorial Day, unless that day is also Armed Forces Day. As used in this subsection -
(1) the term “half-staff” means the position of the flag when it is one-half the distance between the top and
bottom of the staff;
(2) the term “executive or military department” means any agency listed under sections 101 and 102 of Title 5,
United States Code; and
(3) the term “Member of Congress” means a Senator, a Representative, a Delegate, or the Resident
Commissioner from Puerto Rico.
(n) When the flag is used to cover a casket, it should be so placed that the union is at the head and over the left
shoulder. The flag should not be lowered into the grave or allowed to touch the ground.
(o) When the flag is suspended across a corridor or lobby in a building with only one main entrance, it should
be suspended vertically with the union of the flag to the observer’s left upon entering. If the building has more
than one main entrance, the flag should be suspended vertically near the center of the corridor or lobby with the
union to the north, when entrances are to the east and west or to the east when entrances are to the north and
south. If there are entrances in more than two directions, the union should be to the east.
§ 8. Respect for flag

No disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America; the flag should not be dipped to
any person or thing. Regimental colors, State flags, and organization or institutional flags are to be dipped as a
mark of honor.
(a) The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of
extreme danger to life or property.
(b) The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water, or merchandise.
(c) The flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free.
(d) The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery. It should never be festooned, drawn
back, nor up, in folds, but always allowed to fall free. Bunting of blue, white, and red, always arranged with the
blue above, the white in the middle, and the red below, should be used for covering a speaker’s desk, draping
the front of the platform, and for decoration in general.
(e) The flag should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored in such a manner as to permit it to be easily torn,
soiled, or damaged in any way.
(f ) The flag should never be used as a covering for a ceiling.
(g) The flag should never have placed upon it, nor on any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter,
word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature.
(h) The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything.
(i) The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner whatsoever. It should not be
embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs and the like, printed or otherwise impressed on paper
napkins or boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use and discard. Advertising signs should not be
fastened to a staff or halyard from which the flag is flown.
(j) No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform. However, a flag patch may be affixed
to the uniform of military personnel, firemen, policemen, and members of patriotic organizations. The flag
represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing. Therefore, the lapel flag pin being a replica,
should be worn on the left lapel near the heart.
(k) The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a
dignified way, preferably by burning.
§ 9. Conduct during hoisting, lowering or passing of flag

During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag or when the flag is passing in a parade or in review,
those present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and veterans who
are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag

and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with their
right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Citizens of other countries should
stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment
the flag passes.
§ 10. Modification of rules and customs by President

Any rule or custom pertaining to the display of the flag of the United States of America, set forth herein, may be
altered, modified, or repealed, or additional rules with respect thereto may be prescribed, by the Commander
in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States, whenever he deems it to be appropriate or desirable; and any
such alteration or additional rule shall be set forth in a proclamation.
National anthem
U.S. Code Title 36, Subtitle I, Part A, Section 301
(a) Designation.— The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the
national anthem.
(b) Conduct During Playing.— During a rendition of the national anthem—
(1) when the flag is displayed—
(A) individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that
position until the last note;
(B) members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military
salute in the manner provided for individuals in uniform; and
(C) all other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart,
and men not in uniform, if applicable, should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the
left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and
(2) when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they
would if the flag were displayed.
Note: For uniformity when reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, each Legionnaire should hold the Legion cap by
inserting the fingers of his or her right hand into the cap, leaving the front of the cap at the top and placed over
the heart with the Legion emblem facing outward.
Publications and other materials

National Headquarters produces dozens of handbooks, brochures and other publications. These are
generally available free through your department headquarters or can be downloaded online at legion.
org/publications. In many cases, one copy of a publication can be provided per post without cost, but a
modest charge may be required for additional copies. (See the Emblem Sales catalog for current prices of
sale items.)
• The American Legion Magazine is mailed to all members; additional subscriptions are $6 per year
for posts. A spoken version of the magazine is available, at no charge, for visually impaired and
physically disabled members of The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and SAL.
• The American Legion Dispatch is a free monthly e-newsletter providing post, district and
department officers with news relevant to membership recruitment and retention, post activities
and community support, American Legion programs, troop support, veterans benefits and more.
The e-newsletter features headlines with clickable links to full stories on the Dispatch page at
legion.org/dispatch. Subscribe at legion.org/newsletters.

• A copy of the Officer’s Guide and Manual of Ceremonies is sent free to each post and available online
at legion.org/publications. (Check the Emblem Sales catalog or go online to emblem.legion.org
for the price of additional copies.)
• A booklet of The American Legion National Constitution and By-Laws is available for download
online at legion.org/publications.
Service animals and posts

Post-traumatic stress is the “signature wound” of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and VA estimates that
up to 20 percent of U.S. veterans suffer from it. As a result, there has been a dearth of new therapies and
treatments to assist veterans from all service eras in coping with PTSD.
In 2010, The American Legion created the TBI/PTSD Committee to explore emerging treatments for mental
health conditions and recommend those treatments to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the
Department of Defense (DoD). Among them is the use of service dogs. Many Legionnaires have said that a
trained service dog has had a positive effect on their lives, and emerging research backs up those claims;
thus, in 2016, during the 98th National Convention in Cincinnati, The American Legion passed Resolution
No. 134, “Service Dogs for Injured Service Personnel and Veterans with Mental Health Conditions.”
Veterans with PTSD use service animals to mitigate specific symptoms, such as recurring nightmares or
anxiety attacks. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), passed into law in 1990, is a federal prohibition
on discrimination against disabled individuals. According to the ADA, this includes those who utilize service
dogs for a disability.
Most American Legion posts have been exemplary in their adherence to local, state and federal disability
laws, but a select few have not. Some local posts have failed to adequately recognize the value of service
dogs for PTSD and been in non-compliance regarding public access under the ADA. Care of disabled
veterans is one of the Legion’s priorities, and through Resolution No. 357 – passed to make American
Legion facilities accessible to and usable by disabled veterans and their families – we continue that long
tradition of supporting those who need it most.
The law requires the animal to be under the control of the handler at all times by harness, leash or voice
control. In complying with the ADA, American Legion posts should understand that service dogs are
protected under the ADA and no veteran with one should be denied access to a local post, even if it has a
“no pets” policy. The only exception is if the dog is not under control of the veteran and is a direct threat
to others.
If an individual enters an American Legion post with a service animal, the person cannot be asked about
the nature or extent of disability. Only two questions may be asked:
1. Is the animal required because of a disability?
2. What work or task has the animal been trained to perform?
These questions should not be asked if the animal’s service tasks are obvious, such as guiding an individual
who is blind or has low vision, pulling a wheelchair or providing stability. Furthermore, an “emotional
support” or “comfort” animal is not protected by the ADA, but state laws may differ. Post leadership should
review all house rules and its constitution and by-laws to ensure compliance with federal, state and local
laws per service dogs, and Legionnaires should be briefed.
Answers to frequently asked questions about service animals and the ADA are online at ada.gov/
regs2010/service_animal_qa.pdf.

INDEX
A
Adjutant, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
American Legion Basic Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
American Legion Riders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Americanism Committee and programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Ammunition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116-121
Appeals (cancellation, suspension or revocation of post charter) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Appointments to post committees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Auxiliary, American Legion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12, 33-34, 87, 121
B
Badges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Birthday, American Legion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Blueprint for 21st Century, resolutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83-84
Blue Star Banner, flag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
By-laws, suggested post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87-91
C
Cap, official American Legion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38-39
Cancellation of charter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106-109
Cemetery ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71-72
Ceremonial team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39-41
Ceremonies, opening (meeting) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Ceremonies, closing (meeting) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44-45
Chapel service (funeral) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61-66
Charter, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25-26
Child Welfare Foundation (CWF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Children & Youth Committee and programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Clubrooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 20
Color guard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41
Commander, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12
Committees, other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Consolidated Post Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27-28
Constitution, suggested post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85-87
D
Dedications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55-57
Delegates, department convention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Delinquency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Department headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Department officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Digest of eligibility opinions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94-95
Direct renewal notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Disposal of unserviceable flags. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76-78

District/county organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
District officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Draping charter ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
E
Economic Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Elections, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 103-105
Eligibility, membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91-99
Emblem, elements of. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Emblem Sales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Emblem, use and form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 114-115
Equipment, policy and procedure for acquisition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116-121
Executive committee, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 88
Expulsion of member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110-113
F
Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9, 16, 86, 88
Finance committee, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Finance officer, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
First vice commander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Flag Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130-133
Flag folding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Flag presentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Flag, retirement of unserviceable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76-78
Formational meeting (to form a post) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25
Four Pillars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Funeral honors for veterans (when assisting U.S. government) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57-59, 64, 66
G
Gold Star Banner ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69-70
Graveside ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63-64
H
Historian, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-18
Histories, post and department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125-129
History of American Legion (capsule) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
House Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
I
Incorporation, posts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Initiation, new member (regular and short form) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45-50
Installation, post officers (regular and short form) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 50-55
J
Judge advocate, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
L
Legislative Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
LEGION Act . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

M
Meeting room arrangement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37
Meetings, how to conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41-45
Merchant Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Military funeral honors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57-66
MyLegion.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-30
N
Name, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
National anthem, observance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
National Emergency Fund (NEF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33
National Guard, eligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97-98
National Headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 12
National Security committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
New posts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25-27
Nominations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103-104
O
Online renewals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
P
Paid-Up-For-Life membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Parliamentary procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99-106
Patriotic holidays, observance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-76
Poppy Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Post committees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-20
Post Everlasting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59-66
Post Executive Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Post officers (general) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-18, 86
Post operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 8-9, 21
POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
POW/MIA Remembrance Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43-44
Practice and procedure in expulsion or suspension of a member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86, 110-113
Prayers for special occasions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Preamble to Constitution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81-82
Preamble, meaning of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81-82
Program reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
Public Relations committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Publications, national . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133-134
R
Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Reservists, eligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97-98
Resignation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Resolutions, how to write . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11, 121-124
Revocation, post charter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106-109
Rifles (storage and security) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117-121
Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99-106

S
Second vice commander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Sergeant-at-arms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Service officer, post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17
Service animals and posts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Sons of The American Legion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Speeches, various . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-76
Standing committees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19
Steps to a better post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-23
Suspension of charter, member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106-113
T
Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Transfer, membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
U
Uniform, American Legion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38-39
Uniform Code of Procedure for the Revocation, Cancellation or Suspension of Post Charters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106-109
Uniformed groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
V
VAVS Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Veteran’s Creed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Veteran of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Committee and program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

FOR ADDITIONAL COPIES: Copies of the 2022 edition of The American Legion’s Officer’s Guide and Manual
of Ceremonies (Stock No. 755.018, Publication Stock No. 30-106, revised January 2022) may be purchased
from Emblem Sales online at emblem.legion.org by calling (888) 453-4466. The catalog price is $3.95.
The Officer’s Guide and Manual of Ceremonies can also be downloaded free at legion.org/publications.
THE AMERICAN LEGION NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS OFFICES

The American Legion National Headquarters
P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206
(317) 630-1200
Fax: (317) 630-1223
tal@legion.org
legion.org
Washington, D.C., Office
1608 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20006
(202) 861-2700
Fax: (202) 861-2728
John H. Geiger Operations Center
5745 Lee Road, Indianapolis, IN 46216
(317) 860-3100
Fax: (317) 860-3001

ORGANIZATION OF THE AMERICAN LEGION
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION
One elected from each of the 55 departments, Five delegates from each department, plus one for each
plus national commander, national vice commanders, 1,000 members, or major fraction thereof, NEC members,
and past national commanders and past national commanders
(voice without vote)
NATIONAL COMMANDER
NATIONAL JUDGE ADVOCATE Elected by national convention
NATIONAL TREASURER
NATIONAL CHAPLAIN
NATIONAL HISTORIAN FIVE NATIONAL
NATIONAL SERGEANT-AT-ARMS NATIONAL ADJUTANT VICE COMMANDERS
Appointed by NEC Appointed by NEC Elected by national convention
NATIONAL COMMISSIONS NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS CONVENTION COMMITTEES

AND COMMITTEES Full-time staff Composed of one (1) delegate from each
(Standing) Appointed by NEC, and department serving during the life of
functioning on a continuing basis National Headquarters convention only
Americanism Commission 700 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis, IN Americanism
American Legion Baseball Committee Constitutional Amendments
Administrative Services
Citizens Flag Alliance Advisory Committee
Human Resources Credentials & Rules
Committee on Children & Youth
Library and Museum Finance
Committee on Youth Education
Purchasing/Document Processing
Youth Cadet Law Enforcement Committee Internal Affairs
Information Technology Network
Americanism Council
Operations Legislation
Convention Commission
Americanism Division National Security
Finance Commission Finance Division
American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, Inc Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation
Marketing Division
The American Legion Endowment Fund Corp. Veterans Employment & Education
Overseas Graves Decoration Trust Media & Communications Division
Internal Affairs & Membership Division
Internal Affairs Commission
American Legion Riders Advisory Committee National Convention & Meetings Planning
Constitution & By-Laws Committee Division
Membership & Post Activities Committee
National Convention Resolutions John H. Geiger Operations Center
Assignment Committee 5745 Lee Road, Indianapolis, IN
Sons of The American Legion Oversight
Emblem Sales Division
Committee
Sons of The American Legion Advisory Print Production
Committee Information Technology Division
Legislative Commission Board of Veterans Appeals
Legislative Council
Marketing Commission Washington, D.C. Office
Emblem Committee 1608 K Street N.W., Washington, DC
Media & Communications Commission Administrative Services
Media & Communications Council Legislative Division
National Security Commission National Security Division
Aerospace Committee Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Division
Conventional Armed Forces Committee
Veterans Employment & Education Division
Foreign Relations Committee
Law and Order & Homeland Security Committee
Military Benefits & Quality of Life Committee Various Field Stations
National Guard & Reserve Forces Committee Veteran Affairs & Rehabilitation Division
Unconventional Forces & Intelligence Committee
National Security Council
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission
Health Administration Committee
National Cemetery Committee
TBI/PTSD Suicide Prevention Committee
Veterans Benefits Committee
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Council
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Executive
Committee
Veterans Employment & Education Commission
Employment & Veterans Preference Committee
Veterans Education, Other Benefits &
Homelessness Committee
Veterans Employment & Education Council
Updated December 13, 2022
The American Legion
P.O. Box 1055
Indianapolis, IN 46206
1-800-433-3318
legion.org
Connect with The American Legion

Stock # 30-106
Artwork # 27IA0123

2023 Post Officers Guide

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2023 Post Officers Guide

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2023 Officer’s Guide

and Manual of Ceremonies

The American Legion

DISTRICT AND/OR COUNTY

OTHER ELECTED OFFICERS

POST EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

The American Legion National Headquarters

P.O. Box 1055

Revised January 2023

THE AMERICAN LEGION | OFFICER’S GUIDE | 2023 i

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Planning post operations for the coming year

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Post executive committee

Records, minutes and other materials

Budget and fundraising

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Programs new and old

First post meeting

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Pageantry and honors

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The American Legion Basic Training

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Suggestions for the new adjutant

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First vice commander

The four W’s of planning

• WHAT – What steps are required to reach the objective?

• WHEN – When is the work going to be done?

• WHERE – Where do you want to go? What’s the objective?

• What awards or special recognition will be given?

THE AMERICAN LEGION | OFFICER’S GUIDE | 2023 15

Post service officer

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American Legion buildings

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• What does the post do to make a veteran desire membership?

• Does the post have a vision for the future?

• What activities could the post reasonably expect to offer?

• How many members can the post handle?

• Is it satisfied with its current membership?

• Is there room for membership growth?

• What is the reason for the post’s existence in the community?

Steps to a better post

A suggested agenda should include: