How to Join an American Legion Post

The United States Congress created the American Legion in 1919. Since then, the American Legion has amassed about 3 million members. This organization, which includes both men and women, is a place for veterans and active-duty servicemembers to participate in community service activities. The American Legion prides itself on its service and its patriotism. There are 15,000 posts worldwide with a headquarters in Indianapolis.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Application
• $20

1. Find out if there's an American Legion post in your area. All 50 states have American Legion posts. If you aren't sure where the closest one is, ask veterans in your area or log on to the American Legion's website.
2. Visit the American Legion's website and click on "Membership." From there you can either apply online or print out an application and mail it in.
3. Pay the $20 application fee by credit card (Visa and MasterCard only). Your membership dues will entitle you to benefits like discounts on travel and medications. After you're approved for membership, you have the option of paying dues yearly or being "paid up for life," or PUFL. You can apply for PUFL on the Legion's website if you're interested in this option.
4. Joining requires that you served at least one day of active military duty during the following dates: Aug. 2, 1990 - Present; Dec. 20, 1989 - January 31, 1990; August 24, 1982 - July 31, 1984; Feb. 28, 1961 - May 7, 1975; June 25, 1950 - Jan. 31, 1955; Dec. 7, 1941 - Dec. 31, 1946; Apr. 6, 1917 - Nov. 11, 1918. For US Merchant Marines, the dates are Dec. 7, 1941 - Aug. 15, 1945.
5. Be a current military member serving honorably, or be honorably discharged to be considered for membership.
6. Receive your membership card yearly and your branch-of-service lapel pin, which shows you're officially a member of the American Legion.