American Legion Birthday
MARCH 15, 2025
American Legion Birthday
Be The One Day
March 15, the designated birthday of The American Legion, is the day in 1919 when the first American Legion caucus, held by members of the American Expeditionary Force, convened in Paris. Much as the birthday of the United States is celebrated on July 4 – for the day in 1776 when revolting patriots declared the independence of the British colonies and the spirit of America was born – March 15 is the date on which the Legion came to life.
Each year, Legion posts across the country hold events – public, private or both – to commemorate this anniversary.
Be The One - Why is this a priority right now?
Today, the No. 1 issue facing the veteran community is suicide, according to the National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report. It is estimated that between 17 and 22 veterans or servicemembers take their lives each day. That’s more than 6,000 annually. The rate of suicide for veterans is more than 50% higher than that of non-veteran adults. As the Global War on Terrorism continues, there will be more veterans facing mental-health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
What will Be the One achieve?
At its core, The American Legion is activating a national platform to reduce the rate of veteran suicide. The Be the One campaign will:
- Destigmatize asking for mental health support, creating opportunity for those with mental health issues to speak freely and get the support they need.
- Provide peer-to-peer support and resources in local communities.
- Deploy FDA-approved therapeutics for veterans to identify issues and find resources for support.
I’m a veteran. What can I do to support this initiative?
While this program is designed to help all veterans, we know that everyone responds differently to stresses, have different life experiences and have varying results in types of treatment. However, the following are guidelines intended to provide help before a crisis situation develops. The American Legion encourages you to Be the One to:
- Talk with others about how you are feeling.
- Ask for help when you know you need it.
- Know there are millions of people ready to help you.
- Remember your family and friends care.
I’m a spouse, partner, family member, caregiver, friend of a veteran, or interested civilian. What can I do to support this initiative?
The stigma associated with mental health issues is a barrier to veterans seeking assistance. They fear loss of their job, think they can handle their situation themselves, or don’t believe others can understand their situation. Family members may be the first to recognize the signs that their loved one needs help, but they may lack the knowledge of how to approach the situation. If you have a family member, friend, business associate or have another connection with someone who is a veteran, The American Legion encourages you to Be the One to:
- Ask veterans in your life how they are doing.
- Listen when a veteran needs to talk.
- Reach out when a veteran is struggling
What can my American Legion post do to help?
American Legion posts will be instrumental in the success of this campaign. They have the power to foster unity and camaraderie, and get support quickly to veterans in crisis. In non-emergency situations, posts can also:
- Educate members, other veterans and civilians about the campaign.
- Display resources at your post or in your community.
- Share events or success stories on the legiontown.org platform.
My post is conducting an event to raise awareness about PTSD and/or suicide prevention. What resources are available to promote the event in my community?
There is a strong collection of resources materials available here. They include videos, print materials, pop-up banners, posters, wallet cards and more. Please note that there are two trifold brochures. One is intended to educate potential community partners about the Be the One program. The other one, which has one side intentionally left blank, allows for Legion members to customize it with locally available resources for veterans. Once local information is added, the brochure can be distributed to veterans to connect them with nearby resources that can assist them.
Where can I get more information?
Keep checking in for new resources, stories and other information at legion.org/betheone. You can also sign up to receive email about new announcements.
What’s the quickest way to get help in an emergency?
If you are a veteran in crisis, resources are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week:
- Call 988 and press 1
- Text 838255
- Visit the VA Crisis Line website
Celebrating the American Legion’s Birthday: A Look Ahead to 2025
In 2025, the American Legion will celebrate its 106th birthday, marking over a century of service, advocacy, and support for veterans, military families, and communities across the United States. Founded in 1919, the American Legion has played a vital role in American society, shaping the lives of countless veterans and their families while contributing to the nation’s welfare. As the organization approaches this significant milestone, it is essential to reflect on its achievements, ongoing mission, and the future it envisions.
A Legacy of Service
The American Legion was established shortly after World War I by a group of American veterans seeking to support their fellow service members and promote national security. Over the decades, the organization has evolved but has always remained steadfast in its commitment to veterans and their families. The Legion’s mission encompasses several key areas, including advocating for veterans’ rights, providing support for military families, and fostering community engagement.
Throughout its history, the American Legion has been instrumental in various initiatives, such as the creation of the GI Bill, which has transformed the lives of millions of veterans by providing access to education, housing, and healthcare. This legacy of advocacy has made the American Legion a powerful voice for veterans’ rights, ensuring that those who have served are honored and supported in their transition to civilian life.
Community Engagement and Programs
The American Legion is not just about advocacy; it also plays a vital role in community engagement. Local posts across the country serve as hubs for veterans and their families, providing a space for social interaction, camaraderie, and support. These posts are often involved in various community service projects, from youth programs to disaster relief efforts, exemplifying the Legion’s commitment to service beyond the military.
As the organization prepares to celebrate its 106th birthday, it is important to highlight the many programs and initiatives that the American Legion supports. From the Oratorical Contest, which fosters public speaking skills among high school students, to the Boys State and Girls State programs that educate young people about government and civic engagement, the Legion’s impact on the next generation is profound.
A Time for Reflection and Renewal
As the American Legion approaches its birthday in 2025, it is also a time for reflection. The organization has faced numerous challenges over the years, including changes in the military landscape, evolving societal attitudes toward veterans, and the ongoing impacts of war. However, these challenges have also presented opportunities for growth and renewal.
In recent years, the American Legion has embraced modernization, leveraging technology to better serve its members and communities. This includes expanding its outreach through social media, online resources, and virtual events, ensuring that the organization remains relevant in a rapidly changing world.
The 2025 celebration will likely emphasize the importance of inclusivity and diversity within the organization. As the demographic landscape of the military changes, the American Legion is committed to welcoming all veterans, regardless of background or service branch. This commitment to inclusivity strengthens the organization and enhances its ability to advocate for all veterans.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the American Legion
As the American Legion celebrates its 106th birthday, the future is bright. The organization continues to adapt to the needs of modern veterans, focusing on issues such as mental health, homelessness, and employment. By addressing these critical areas, the American Legion remains a vital resource for veterans and their families, ensuring they receive the support they need.
The 2025 celebration will not only commemorate the past but also inspire a renewed commitment to the organization’s mission. Events planned for this milestone will likely include ceremonies, community service projects, and outreach efforts to engage younger veterans and families, encouraging them to become involved in the Legion’s work.
The American Legion’s 106th birthday in 2025 represents an important moment in the organization’s long and storied history. As it reflects on its achievements and challenges, the Legion remains dedicated to its mission of supporting veterans and their families. By fostering community engagement, advocating for veterans’ rights, and embracing inclusivity, the American Legion will continue to thrive and evolve in the years to come. The upcoming celebration serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the American Legion and its vital role in American society.