Eligibility
Continue Your Service with The American Legion
The American Legion is the nation’s largest veterans service organization and the leading advocate for veterans, active-duty service members, their families, and America’s communities. Since 1919, Legionnaires have been defending the benefits earned through military service, supporting fellow veterans, mentoring our youth, promoting patriotism, and strengthening our nation.
If you served honorably in the United States Armed Forces—or are currently serving on active duty—you may be eligible to join The American Legion, Department of Florida.
Who Is Eligible?
Thanks to the LEGION Act, membership eligibility includes any veteran or active-duty service member who has served at least one day of federal active-duty service since December 7, 1941, and:
- Received an honorable discharge or discharge under honorable conditions, or
- Is currently serving honorably on active duty.
Eligibility is based on federal active-duty service, not where you served. You do not need to have served in a combat zone or deployed overseas to qualify.
Special Eligibility Notes
- Active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces remain eligible while hostilities continue, as determined by the United States government.
- National Guard and Reserve members may qualify if they served on qualifying federal (Title 10) active-duty orders.
- U.S. Merchant Marine service is eligible only for service between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946 (World War II).
Why Join?
Membership in The American Legion means becoming part of a nationwide network of veterans who continue serving long after their military careers end. As a Legionnaire, you’ll have opportunities to:
- Advocate for veterans’ benefits and earned healthcare.
- Connect with fellow veterans in your community.
- Support military families, youth programs, and local initiatives.
- Volunteer through your local American Legion Post.
- Continue a legacy of service that has strengthened America for more than a century.
In Florida alone, more than 130,000 Legionnaires are making a difference every day in their communities. Together, we remain committed to our shared mission of Veterans. Family. Friends.
Ready to Join?
If you meet the eligibility requirements, we invite you to become part of a tradition of service that continues long after the uniform comes off.
Join The American Legion, Department of Florida, today—and continue serving your community, your fellow veterans, and our nation.