LEGION Act opens membership to all

UNITED STATES - In this 100th anniversary year of the American Legion, all members of the military who honorably served will be eligible to join the organization after the LEGION Act (Let Everyone Get Involved In Opportunities for National Service Act) was signed into law by President Donald Trump on July 30. It declares the United States has been in a state of war since Dec. 7, 1941.

In the past, there were certain undeclared periods of war, when about 1,600 service members were killed or wounded and were not able to join the American Legion.

Past Commander of Cresco’s Legion Post #135 Jim Perry has been following the progress of the law since it was introduced on Feb. 14. It passed the United States Senate and House.

With the signing of the law, the Legion’s eligibility criteria changed from seven war eras to two — April 6, 1917-Nov. 11, 1918 and Dec. 7, 1941 to a time to be determined in the future.

Perry said, “I think it’s great. It should have been done years and years and years ago. There were over 1,600 servicemen and women killed or wounded in service for our country who weren’t recognized. For anyone wanting to join the American Legion Post 135, we will pay the first year’s dues.”

He added there are many members of the Reserves, National Guard and Active Duty who honorably served. “They can now join the American Legion and Legion Riders. Their sons can join the Sons of the American Legion and their spouses and daughters can join the Legion Auxiliary and Junior Auxiliary.”

Perry mentioned some individuals have wanted to become members but did not serve during the magic dates set by the government. One gentleman from Protivin was one of them. “He has helped the Legion for years. Now he can be a legitimate Legion member!” he said.

It is estimated this law will allow six million veterans to join the American Legion.