The American Legion will now allow six million more veterans to join the organization.
On Tuesday President Trump signed The LEGION Act (Let Everyone Get Involved in Opportunities for National Service Act), which declares the U.S. has been in a state of war since Dec. 7, 1941.
The legislation expands membership eligibility for the American Legion so that any veteran who has served since this date may become a member.
National Commander Brett Reistad said allowing more veterans to join the organization is a way to honor their service.
“Recognizing the service of these wartime veterans is the right thing to do and it is long overdue,” he said. “The families of those who were killed or wounded during these wartime acts should take pride in knowing that we recognize their sacrifice and service.”
The organization was previously only open to veterans who served during seven specific periods of war such as World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
However, the American Legion identified nearly 1,600 U.S. servicemembers who were killed or wounded in hostile operations during periods that were not recognized as times of war by the federal government.
The American Legion sought the declaration as a way to honor those servicemembers by expanding the federal recognition of wartime.
Aside from the veterans who are now eligible, the legislation will allow their family members to join the Sons of the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary.
No other restrictions to American Legion membership have changed, but applications are still in the process of being updated. Until they are, it is recommended that prospective members write “LEGION Act” in the eligibility date section of the application.
The American Legion is a congressionally chartered organization and the nation’s largest veteran service organization.
The organization offers youth mentorship, sponsors community programming, advocates for patriotism and supports fellow servicemembers.
Those interested in joining the organization or learning more may call the American Legion Post 79 in Marysville at 937-644-9923 or email legionpost79@gmail.com.