American Legion looking to increase membership
The American Legion is the largest veterans’ service organization in the U.S., but their membership numbers are decreasing.
Thursday, legion officers in Pocatello called veterans in Southeast Idaho to try and boost their membership.
One thing legion officers are focusing on is making sure people know what the legion really is. The Idaho State Department Membership Chairman Charles Abrahamson said a lot of people have the wrong idea about the legion.
“The perception of the people is a smoky bar where a bunch of people sit around drinking and that’s not what the new American Legion is,” said Abrahamson.
The legion focuses on making sure veterans have any help they might need. The legion can file claims against the Veterans Association, at no cost to the veteran. They also have emergency funds for vets, in case of natural disasters.
But the legion is about more than just helping vets. It’s about letting vets give back to the community and get involved. The legion offers a lot of ways to do that.
“We have a lot of children in youth programs, Boys State American Legion baseball is big here in Pocatello,” said Abrahamson. “We do that, oratorical contests, junior shooting sports. There’s a lot that goes with the American Legion other than just a bunch of veterans.”
Abrahamson said a lot of people also don’t realize that the legion is not just for older vets. It’s for any veteran, no matter their age.
The Pocatello district of the legion will be holding an open house for veterans and their families on Saturday. It will be at the Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building from 9 a.m. until noon.
