The American Legion, chartered by the U.S. Congress, is a patriotic veterans organization founded in 1919 that serves veterans, service members and their families. It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization whose mission includes advocating for veteran’s needs and helping communities. Membership is open to all who have honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces. We interviewed Chuck Lewis, Commander of the Kent Island American Legion Post 278, to learn more about our local group American Legion.
Tell us about the Kent Island American Legion. The Kent Island American Legion is a veteran’s organization. We are comprised of Veterans and Active-Duty Members as well as families of veterans and active-duty members. We host the Sons of the American Legion (SAL), which is comprised of “sons” of veterans and active-duty members… a son, a grandson or great grandson. We also host the American Legion Auxiliary, which is comprised of both male and female members such as spouses, daughters, granddaughters etc. We have approximately 750 veteran members, 320 SAL members and 414 Auxiliary members. Our Charter was founded in 1955, and our first Commander was Charles “Sonny” Shultz.
What you offer to the veterans who are members. We offer comradeship, a place to meet and speak with fellow veterans and family members. We also offer services to veteran members at the post level via our resource officer and at the state level through our service officer. We help with VA healthcare, GI Bill benefits and sudden emergencies. We also are active in the community, giving us a chance to give back through volunteering for events and when possible, through donations.
What are the different conflicts your veterans represent. American Legion members represent all conflicts. We have WWII as well as Korean War members that still show as current. (I cannot confirm how many as we have no way of knowing if a member passes unless the family reaches out.)
Who are the oldest and youngest veterans in your organization and which conflicts did they serve. I know that we have some active-duty members who are in their early 20’s. I cannot advise who our oldest member is as I don’t have a way to filter by date of birth. I do know of some members in their mid-80’s.
How does someone join the legion? If they are active duty, they need to provide their military ID card. If they are a veteran, they need to provide their DD 214, which are their separation papers, and they must have an honorable or general discharge. It cannot be dishonorable. As far as family, they must provide their family members DD 214 and, unless deceased, that family member must be a member in good standing with the American Legion.
The Kent Island American Legion donates to veterans’ organizations and the community, which includes the schools, youth sports, hospice, scouts and numerous other charities. The Kent Island American Legion is located at 800 Romancoke Rd, Stevensville. To reach someone, send an email to kialpost0278@gmail.com or call 410-643-4696 or visit them on Facebook Kent Island American Legion Post 278.
