Know Jack #513 The American Legion

Very soon, I will be installed as the Commander of American Legion Post 237 in Huntsville, Alabama. I blame my penchant for volunteering and the fact that I ran unopposed for creating this situation. There will be times when I rue the decision and other times that I will feel happy with it. That’s the way life works when you follow your heart.

Whatever the next year brings, win, lose, or draw, I am convinced that the effort will be worth it. That’s because I’m proud to be a part of the American Legion. In some circles, the Legion is seen as a bar where old men hang out and tell war stories. I won’t say that doesn’t happen. If you’ve read this blog, you know I belong to a group called the Liar’s Table that meets there every Tuesday. We’re old guys, and we like to talk. But more than talking is going on beneath the surface. Our little group is fostering a feeling of brotherhood and providing a kind of therapy for PTSD. We rib each other without mercy as our way of showing that mercy, understanding, and compassion are sitting there at the table in the form of fellow veterans.

However, the American Legion is far more than that. We sponsor youth activities like baseball that teach sportsmanship and team building. Our players are exposed to college recruiters and win scholarships to further their education. Speaking of education, our Post offers college scholarships to direct descendants of veterans. We also send high school students to Boys’ State and Girls’ State programs annually, in which scholarships are won, and Americanism is fostered. In partnership with other Posts, we sponsor an annual Oratorical contest that offers money that can be used to further students’ education.

We help find homes for homeless veterans and supply the things they need for a fresh start. We help veterans in the community who may be in distress with food and financial assistance. We are involved in preventing veteran suicide. Our Veteran Service Officer helps veterans navigate the maze of benefits available to them. Our Post Honor Guard provides a final salute to veterans free of charge. We are first and foremost a service organization.

Of course, there are social activities too. We serve lunch Monday through Friday, and the first Wednesday of every month is Steak Day. We play trivia and bingo, sing karaoke, and have game night every week for members, young and old, to enjoy some time together. Fellowship helps drive service to our community.

If this blog sounds like a sales pitch, then I’m on the mark. If you’re a veteran, the American Legion needs you. Come, join, and get involved.