Sons of The American Legion Introduction
The Sons of The American Legion is a legally constituted organization, instituted and recognized by official action of The American Legion’s National Executive Committee. Each squadron exists through sponsorship of the individual post of The American Legion and is subject to such rules, regulations and supervision as shall be created by the sponsoring post that are not in conflict with rules and regulations set up by the National Executive Committee. Recognition of district and detachment organizations of Sons has been approved by the NEC.
Sons of The American Legion squadrons can be a source of pride for their members and the sponsoring American Legion post. By volunteering to assist older veterans and participating in patriotic holiday events, squadrons not only expand the post’s representation but reflect the Sons’ purpose “to foster and perpetuate a true spirit of Americanism.
”Examples of how squadrons fulfill these missions:
Volunteers: SAL members find it rewarding to serve as a volunteer at a hospital or medical center in the VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) program.
Leadership: As the SAL member becomes older, his experience and talent should be utilized in leadership and instructional capacities within the squadron. Older SAL members who have had Boys State experience can provide a junior counselor service to The American Legion in this annual program.
Americanism: One of the four pillars of The American Legion. The SAL plays a vital role in The American Legion to promote an understanding and appreciation of American government; the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship; and activity in the American way of life through youth activities, community service, education and educational facilities, and proper U.S. flag etiquette as well as the protection of the U.S. flag from physical desecration. The SAL participates both as counselors and participants in Americanism programs such as Boys Nation, Boys State, Oratorical Contest, Scouting, and Junior Shooting sports in addition to providing scholarship money to various programs.
The sponsoring post must demonstrate that care be exercised in the selection of adult leadership for the squadron. Legionnaires selected for the post’s SAL Supervisory Committee must have knowledge and understanding of this program, and the initiative and determination to see that it is carried through. SAL activities must be stressed that will develop engaged Americans with the strength and courage to face the responsibilities and challenges of adult life in a complex world.
The establishment of a SAL squadron should not be accomplished with the intent of competing with or luring members from youth organizations already active in the community. Membership and active participation in the SAL should complement other existing programs and should serve as an enhancement of the SAL member in both his scholastic and extracurricular endeavors.
Care must be taken to permit members to develop and use their own initiative and ideas in working out details of activities. Legionnaires on the supervisory committee should serve primarily as advisors for the squadron’s leadership.
