About Us

The Sons of The American Legion was created in 1932 as an organization within The American Legion. The S.A.L. is made up of boys and men of all ages whose parents or grandparents served in the United States military and became eligible for membership in The American Legion.

Together, members of The American Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion make up what is known as The Legion Family. All three organizations place high importance on preserving our American traditions and values, improving the quality of life for our nation's children, caring for veterans and their families, and perhaps most importantly, teaching the fundamentals of good citizenship. Sons have always assisted Legionnaires with Legion Family programs.

Our Family boasts a combined total membership of nearly 4.2 million members. This year, Sons attained an all time high national membership of over 315,000.

Sons focus on much more than just membership. At all levels, Sons support The American Legion in promoting a wide variety of programs.

In the 2006-2007 membership year, the Sons of The American Legion donated 390,450 hours and $1,671,587 towards Americanism and Community Service; 223,923 hours with 11,594 visits and $915,688 towards Veteran’s Assistance & Rehabilitation; over $321,000 to the Child Welfare Foundation; $70,955 to the Children’s Miracle Network with 8,231 hours of service; 9,796 hours and $102,651 to Special Olympics along with 54,513 hours and $894,397 to other Children and Youth programs.

Just as each Legion post determines the extent of its service to the community, state, and nation, each S.A.L. squadron is permitted flexibility in planning programs and activities to meet its own needs. The S.A.L. has study programs recommended for younger members. One such program, called "The Ten Ideals," teaches the elements of patriotism, health, knowledge, training, honor, faith, helpfulness, courtesy, reverence, and comradeship. If a member completes the Ten Ideals program, he is eligible to continue with another program called the "Five-Point Program of Service." This program covers patriotism, citizenship, discipline, leadership, and legionism.

There are many men who are members of, both, The American Legion and the Sons of The American Legion. Often, these individuals started out as young members of the Sons. Then, when they were old enough to serve the military, they also became eligible to join The Legion. Such individuals are known within our organization as dual members.

The Sons of The American Legion is one of many organizations that sponsors and supports the Citizens Flag Alliance, a coalition formed to secure flag protection legislation through an amendment to the U.S. Constitution. S.A.L. volunteers work to establish local networks by having petitions available and handing out informational material. They alert their communities to the importance of respect for the flag and they encourage flag education programs in schools and other local organizations.