MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
REQUIREMENTS TO JOIN THE AMERICAN LEGION
IMPORTANT: EVERYONE MUST SUBMIT A COPY OF DD 214 OR DISCHARGE.
Q: What are the eligibility dates for membership in The American Legion?
A: Thanks to the LEGION Act (Let Everyone Get Involved In Opportunities for National Service Act) that was signed into law July 30, 2019, the current eligibility period is Dec. 7, 1941, to the present, and includes the current war campaigns. Previously, there were seven declared war periods. Now there are two, the current war period dating back to World War II and another war era covering World War I. No other restrictions to American Legion membership changed.
Q: I'm currently on active duty. Am I eligible?
A: Yes, you are a veteran. All current active duty military are eligible for membership.
Q: I didn't retire from the military but was on active duty during one of the qualifying time period
A: Yes, you are a veteran. So as long as you have served at least one day of federal active duty during any qualifying period, you are eligible for membership.
Q: I served during one of the qualifying periods but was never in a combat zone. Am I eligible?
A: Yes, you are a veteran. Location of active duty service is not a consideration for membership.
Q: I'm currently in the National Guard/Reserve. My unit was activated under Title 10 orders during a
A: Yes, you are a veteran. Title 10 orders are issued by the Secretary of Defense and therefore are federal orders.