The mission of the American Legion is to serve veterans, their families and their communities. To support the American Legion programs for veterans, young people and community; to advance the understanding of patriotism and responsibility of citizenship; and to promote individual integrity and family values, volunteerism.
Eligibility requirements for the American Legion are those who served in the Armed Forces of the U. S. during any eligibility periods. Eligibility requirements for American Legion Auxiliary are women, mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, granddaughters, great-granddaughters and grandmothers of members of the American Legion, of those who served in the Armed Forces of the U.S. during any eligibility periods. Jr. members are defined as that group under the age of 18.
Eligibility Periods
World War I April 6, 1917 to November 11, 1918
World War II Dec. 7, 1941 to Dec. 31, 1946
Korean War June 25, 1950 to January 31, 1955
Vietnam War February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975
Lebanon/Grenada August 24, 1982 to July 31, 1984
Panama December 20, 1989 to January 31, 1990
Operation Desert Shield/Storm
Gulf War/War on Terrorism August 2, 1990 to date of cessation
U.S. Merchant Marines Served between December 7, 1941 to December 31, 1946
