American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) is a diverse group of male and female spouses, sisters, mothers, and grandmothers, and directly adopted female descendants of American Legion members. We are one of the nation’s most prominent supporters of veterans, military personnel, and their families. The American Legion Auxiliary helps to advance the American Legion’s mission.
From helping to draft the GI Bill in 1944 to advocating for veterans on Capitol Hill, the nonpartisan American Legion Family is instrumental in advancing legislation that improves the quality of life for our nation’s veterans and service members.
As a proud supporter of America and its ideals, the American Legion Auxiliary is deeply committed to patriotism and veterans advocacy. For a century, we have served, educated, and supported America’s finest — our military, and we continue to do so with unwavering dedication.
How it started
The American Legion Auxiliary has a rich history that dates back to 1919. The first National Convention of The American Legion provided for the establishment of an Auxiliary to The American Legion. By the time of the 1920 National Convention, 1,342 local Units of the Auxiliary had been formed; intensive organizational efforts were authorized. The first National Convention of the Auxiliary was held in Kansas City, Mo., in 1921. The name “American Legion Auxiliary” was adopted, and the first national officers were elected.
The Auxiliary grew from a first-year enrollment of 121,000 to approximately 500,000 at the beginning of World War II. After the women of World War II families became eligible, enrollment rose rapidly and since then there are one million-plus members from all walks of life. The Auxiliary organization (i.e., regional, state, and national) parallels The American Legions with its Auxiliary National Headquarters located in Indianapolis, Ind.
Through its nearly 10,500 units in every state and some foreign countries, the Auxiliary embodies the spirit of America that has prevailed through war and peace.
The Auxiliary administers hundreds of volunteer programs, giving tens of thousands of hours to its communities and veterans and raising millions of dollars to support its own programs and other worthwhile charities familiar to Americans. This impactful work, driven by our volunteers’ dedication, makes our mission possible and inspires us to continue serving our communities and veterans, making a significant and lasting impact.
Originally organized to assist the American Legion, the Auxiliary has evolved into a unique entity, working alongside the veterans who belong to the Legion. Like the Legion, the Auxiliary’s interests have expanded to encompass the entire community.
A community of volunteers
We understand that military service is a sacrifice for the entire family. Therefore, ALA members are always looking for ways to alleviate the burden — doing whatever it takes to help the family get back on their feet physically, mentally, socially, and vocationally. If we lack the resources, we connect military families with our partners who can help.
Making our communities better places to live is another core value put into action by American Legion Auxiliary members daily across the country. Whether hosting a stand-down to bring vital health and support services to homeless veterans or coordinating a send-off or welcome-home event for a deployed military unit, ALA members are continuously at work in their communities, demonstrating the compassion and heart we have for those who serve our country and protect our freedoms.
Becoming a member is a rewarding way to give back to our veterans and community. If you are interested, contact us at (828)524-4306 between 12 and 8 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. The American Legion Post 108 is located at 614 W. Main St., Franklin.