Americanism is, quite simply, love of America – loyalty to its ideals and institutions, allegiance to its flag, willingness to defend it against all enemies foreign and domestic and a desire to pass along the blessings of liberty to future generations. According to The American Legion’s Americanism Manual, “It is not a word. It is a cause, a way of life – the best way of life ever known.”
Two Americanism programs that make differences in the lives of military personnel and their families are Operation Comfort Warriors (OCW) and the Family Support Network. The Family Support Network is designed to provide volunteer assistance for military families during deployments. OCW is dedicated to meeting the needs of wounded and ill military personnel and veterans by providing them with comfort items and recreational activities not usually supplied by the government.
The American Legion has led the way in observing patriotic holidays such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Independence Day and Flag Day. Posts nationwide organize or participate in ceremonies, parades, memorial dedications, concerts, picnics and other patriotic events.
The Legion also emphasizes voter registration and participation. Through the “Get Out the Vote” program, American Legion posts organize teams in their communities to make sure local voters are properly registered and cast ballots on Election Day. The Legion’s federal charter prevents it from supporting, opposing or aiding any political party or candidate, but posts are encouraged to sponsor town-hall forums and debates on the issues. Legionnaires also get involved by serving as poll volunteers.
The Legion also emphasizes voter registration and participation. Through the “Get Out the Vote” program, American Legion posts organize teams in their communities to make sure local voters are properly registered and cast ballots on Election Day.
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