Advocating for Veterans Since 1919
Founded by an Act of Congress after World War I, The American Legion fiercely advocates for the unique needs of every generation of veterans, service members, and their families who pledge to protect our nation. Today, we are committed to destigmatizing mental health support, offering peer-to-peer resources, and empowering everyone to Be The One in the fight to prevent veteran suicide.
Click on the images below for more information.
The Organization
The American Legion maintains a tiered structure that ensures local, state, and national coordination. Here's how it breaks down:
- National Headquarters
Located in Indianapolis, Indiana (with offices in D.C. as well), this is the top level. It sets overall policy, oversees national programs, and coordinates legislative priorities.
- Departments
Each state has a Department (e.g., Department of Virginia). These are responsible for managing Legion activities within their state, including overseeing districts and handling statewide programs and events.
- Districts
Within each Department, there are Districts — geographic subdivisions (often aligned with counties or regions). Districts help coordinate communication and support between the Department and individual Posts.
- Posts
The Post is the heart of the American Legion. It is the local chapter — where veterans gather, serve their community, and run programs like Boys State, Oratorical Contests, and local veteran outreach. Each Post is chartered by the national organization through its Department and operates under a constitution and bylaws.