Becoming a Member of Squadron 408
Membership in The Sons of the American Legion is open to male descendants (includes stepsons and adopted sons) of:
1. A member of The American Legion; or
2. A veteran who died in service during World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, or the Persian Gulf War (See chart below for periods of eligibility); or
3. A veteran who died subsequest to service during World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, or the Persian Gulf War (See chart below for periods of eligibility)
Eligibility Dates (Periods of War) Include:
World War I April 6, 1917 — Nov. 11, 1918
World War II Dec. 7, 1941 — Dec. 31, 1946
Korean War June 25, 1950 — Jan. 31, 1955
Vietnam War Feb. 28, 1961 — May 7, 1975
Lebanon/ Grenada Aug. 24, 1982 — July 31, 1984
Panama Dec. 20, 1989 — Jan. 31, 1990
Persian Gulf War Aug. 2, 1990 — until cessation of hostilities
Membership applications for The Sons of the American Legion are available through Post 408 or at any American Legion post.
Please note: If you are not a male descendant of a member of The American Legion, you will need to provide a copy of your relative's discharge papers.
To obtain military records of veterans (DD214/discharge papers), you will need to contact the National Archives & Records Administration. NARA maintains records from all branches of the military on individuals who are discharged, retired, or deceased.
If you are the next-of-kin of a deceased veteran, you may now access the vetrecs.archives.gov section of the NARA site to order copies of military records electronically. All others must use Standard Form 180 or request the information in a letter. Standard Form 180 is available also as a PDF file on the NARA website. The NARA site provides complete information on information required to process your request.
Or write directly to the:
National Military Personnel Records Center
9700 Page Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63132
(800) 801-0800
Why Join?
Different people have different reasons for belonging to organizations. For many, membership in the Sons has allowed them to become involved in American Legion programs alongside their fathers. Others belong out of respect for their Parents' and grandparents' service to our country in the military. Many younger members get involved and learn valuable leadership skills involving organization, public speaking, negotiating, budgeting and fundraising skills. Membership in our organization also provides individuals with opportunities to forge lifelong friendships with people who share a common bond.
The Sons of The American Legion uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; honor their forefather's service to the country; perpetuate the true spirit and positive view toward Americanism; help our children of (and into) tomorrow; assist teaching all Americans of all ages what it took to make Our Country great; keep Freedom Alive; to reinstate our Loyalty and Patriotism and beliefs in America; to help our Country prepare for the future through ideals established by our forefathers; to provide a vehicle for the Legion Family and the Community to work together; to provide various services to the Community, State, and Nation; and to protect our nation's flag and to educate youth on flag etiquette.