American Legion

AMERICAN LEGION - It is a badge of distinction, honor and service.  It stands for God and Country, and the highest rights of man.  Of its several parts, each has a meaning:

• The rays of the sun form the background and suggests the Legion's principles will dispel the darkness of violence and evil.
• The wreath forms the center, in loving memory of those brave comrades who gave their lives in the service of the United States that liberty might endure.
• The star, victory symbol of World War I, also symbolizes honor, glory and constancy.
• The letters "U.S." leave no doubt as to the brightest star in the Legion's star.
• The larger of two outer rings stands for the rehabilitation of our sick and disabled comrades.
• The smaller inside ring denotes the welfare of America's children.
• The smaller of two inner rings set upon the star represents service to our communities, states and the nation.
• The larger outer ring pledges loyalty to Americanism.
• The words American Legion tie the whole together for truth, remembrance, constancy, honor, service, veterans affairs and rehabilitation, children and youth, loyalty, and Americanism.

Found on graves of people who were American Legion members, an organization for Veterans.  The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization.  Focusing on service to veterans, service members and communities, the Legion evolved from a group of war-weary veterans of World War I into one of the most influential nonprofit groups in the United States.