NATIONAL SECURITY
The American Legion believes that freedom is not free; it must be defended by the very best military fighting force in the world, able to respond at home and across the globe to protect America's interests. The United States must maintain unparalleled homeland security to ensure the safety of all citizens within our borders.
Legionnaires don't just talk about a strong America, they take action every day in a number of ways:
As our nation's preeminent voice for veterans, The American Legion lobbies on Capitol Hill for the resources needed for the armed forces to carry out its mission. We continually seek improvements in pay and quality of life issues - to including pay, housing and ensuring that the government lives up to its commitment to our entire military family including retirees, reserve components and National Guard. The American Legion regularly testifies before committees in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives and submits detailed requests in writing that call for adequate funding, weapons systems, infrastructure and policy. With over 2.7 million Legionnaires across the nation in nearly 15,000 posts, each has contact with district representatives and both U.S. Senators in their states. Using a 1 -2 punch, The American Legion testifies in Washington and Legionnaires in Hometown USA call their specific elected representatives to advocate defense legislation.
The American Legion is a partner with the Department of Homeland Security Citizen Corps. Many posts are actively engaged in disaster preparedness and response programs in their communities.
The American Legion's Family Support Network offers free assistance to families of deployed servicemembers by calling a toll free telephone number 1-800-504-4098. Whether is starting a stalled vehicle, mowing an overgrown lawn, getting a lump of cash to make the rent payment, there likely is an American Legion post nearby where veterans who have been in your shoes will gladly come out and lend a helping hand.
Blue Star Service Banners are provided to families of service members by American Legion Posts who "adopt" units, send packages, letters, and moral support items to servicemembers called up from their hometowns.