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The AmericAn Legion
A BRIEF HISTORY
The American Legion was founded March also realized how poorly prepared the United
15-17, 1919, by members of the American States was to assist a wave of disabled and
Expeditionary Forces still stationed in Europe unemployed veterans who faced uncertain
awaiting passage home from World War I. Their futures in their communities, states and the
experiences in what was called the “war to end nation.
all wars” would shape an enduring agenda for The American Legion’s emergence and
what became the nation’s largest organization rise to prominence was based on a mission
of veterans. to strengthen the nation through programs,
Many of the Legion’s founders had voluntarily services and advocacy that helped millions
drilled in civilian military camps before the throughout the organization’s first century.
United States entered the war. Trained in the The American Legion built its legacy with a
“Preparedness Movement,” several future vision to make the nation prouder, stronger,
Legion founders were commissioned as smarter and more respectful of those who have
officers in the war and discovered firsthand sacrificed some, or all, in defense of the nation.
the nation’s deficiencies in defense, citizenship Following are some The American Legion’s
and education. Soon after the war’s end, they achievements during its first century.
