The Sons of The American
Legion (S.A.L.) is a program of The American Legion established in 1932 in
Portland, Oregon. Since then, the S.A.L. have assisted The American Legion
with their programs and activities. In 1999, they attained an all time high
membership of over 223,000 plus members nationally and should surpass that
for 2000. The largest Detachment (State level) has over 29,000 plus members.
Trophies and awards are given to Detachments and Squadrons for the largest
membership and the largest increase in membership. The American Legion, the
Sons of The American Legion, and the American Legion Auxiliary form the
"Legion Family." Our family boasts a combined total membership of nearly 4.2
million members.
Membership in the
S.A.L. is open to all male descendants, adopted sons and stepsons of members
of The American Legion. Also accepted are any such descendants of veterans
who died in service during the eligibility periods set forth in Article IV,
Section 1, of the National Constitution of The American Legion or who died
subsequent to their honorable discharge from such service. Since the
eligibility age begins from date of birth, activities and programs of
squadrons are determined by age groups within squadrons and the needs of the
community. Just as each Legion post determines the extent of its service to
the community, state, and nation, so each squadron is permitted flexibility
in planning programs and activities to meet its own needs. The average age
of an S.A.L. member is estimated at 33 years of age.
The Sons of the
American Legion have study programs recommended for younger members,
however, this is not limited to just them. The program is called The Ten
Ideals, patriotism, health, knowledge, training, honor, faith, helpfulness,
courtesy, reverence, and comradeship. Once completed, members may continue
with another program called the Five-Point Program of Service. This program
covers patriotism, citizenship, discipline, leadership, and legionism.
The Sons of The
American Legion is more than just membership. On all levels, they have
worked together with The American Legion to promote a wide variety of
programs, including assisting the local posts in all activities, Veterans
programs (VAVS), VA home and hospital volunteering, Children & Youth
activities, and fund raising. Since 1988, the Sons of The American Legion
have raised over a million dollars for The American Legion Child Welfare
Foundation, including $181,000, in 1999. The members of S.A.L. have donated
over 127,000 volunteer hours for 1999 in the Veterans Hospitals throughout
the country and raised over $514,000 that has gone directly to the VA
hospitals and VA homes for a variety of items including TVs, radios, medical
equipment, and clothes for the patients.
The Sons of The
American Legion is one of the organizations that make up 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 the community of the importance of Flag display and
respect, while encouraging Flag education programs in schools and other
local organizations.
If you are interested
in receiving additional information about
the Sons of The American Legion programs, please write to:
THE
SONS OF THE AMERICAN
LEGION
8210 Legion Drive
Lorton, Virginia 22079
Call us at:
703-690-1107
E-mail:
SALCommander@valegion162.org
For more information
go to The Sons of The
American Legion website.
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