MADISON – American Legion, Post 229 is joining its fellows across the country to observe the centennial anniversary of their organization.

In 1919, the U.S. Congress chartered the American Legion as a patriotic veterans organization. Focusing on service to veterans, military personnel and communities, the legion evolved from a group of war-weary veterans of World War I into one of the most influential nonprofit groups in the United States.

Membership swiftly grew to more than 1 million, and local posts sprang up across the country. Today, membership stands at more than 2 million in approximately 13,000 posts worldwide.

“Over the years, American Legion has influenced considerable social change in America, won hundreds of benefits for veterans and produced many important programs for children and youth,” Madison Post 229 Commander Larry Vannoy said.

On March 15-17, 1919, American Expeditionary Force members convened in Paris for the first American Legion caucus. Two months later, the organization adopted its official name, draft preamble, constitution and logo. 

In September 1919, delegates voted 361 to 323 to locate American Legion’s national headquarters in Indianapolis, Ind.

American Legion today is the nation’s largest service organization for wartime veterans. Legionnaires mentor youth, sponsor wholesome programs, advocate patriotism and honor, promote strong national security and continue devotion to fellow service members and veterans.

American Legion Baseball is one of the nation’s most successful amateur athletic programs. Operation Comfort Warriors supports recovering wounded warriors and their families.

American Legion is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization with great political influence.

In the City of Madison, American Legion Post 229, chartered in 1968, is active in community activities and veteran affairs. The organization welcomes members from all branches of the Armed Forces.

Post 229 conducts monthly meetings on second Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Lunar Lodge, 740 Eastview Drive in Madison. Interested individuals are welcome to attend.  

For information about American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, call Jean Downs at 256-929-8450, email jean.downs@teledyne or visit AmericanLegionPost229.org.

For more information about Post 229, call 256-258-8534 or visit AmericanLegionPost229.org or Facebook/AmericanLegionPost229. The mailing address is P.O. Box 194, Madison AL 35758.