Who We Are!
The Sons of The American Legion (SAL) is a program of The American Legion established in 1932 in Portland, Oregon. Since then, the SAL have assisted The American Legion with their programs and activities. In 1996, we attained an all time high membership of over 189,701 members nationally and have already surpassed that for 1997. The largest Detachment (State level) has over 25,000 plus members. Trophies and awards are given to Detachments and Squadrons for the largest membership and the largest increase in membership. The American Legion, the Sons of The American Legion, and the American Legion Auxiliary form the "Legion Family." Our family boasts a combined total membership of nearly 4.2 million members.
Membership in the SAL is open to all male descendants, adopted sons and stepsons of members of The American Legion. Also accepted are any such descendants of veterans who died in service during the eligibility periods set forth in Article IV, Section 1, of the National Constitution of The American Legion or who died subsequent to their honorable discharge from such service. Since the eligibility age begins from date of birth, activities and programs of squadrons are determined by age groups within squadrons and the needs of the community. Just as each Legion post determines the extent of its service to the community, state, and nation, so each squadron is permitted flexibility in planning programs and activities to meet its own needs. The average age of an SAL member is estimated at 33 years of age.