Sons of The American Legion

Membership in the S.A.L. 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 S.A.L. member is estimated at 42 years of age.  Membership in the sons in 2015 reached 358,300 in 6,072 Squadrons, in 54 Detachments

The Sons of the American Legion have study programs recommended for younger members, however, this is not limited to just them. The program is called The Ten Ideals; (patriotism, health, knowledge, training, honor, faith, helpfulness, courtesy, reverence, and comradeship). Once completed, members may continue with another program called the Five-Point Program of Service. This program covers (patriotism, citizenship, discipline, leadership, and legionism).

Other programs that the Sons are active in supporting; National Emergency Fund, Fisher House, Flag Education, Junior Shooting Sports, Education Scholarships, Oratorical, Boys State, Legacy Fund, and assisting local Veterans.

The Sons of The American Legion is more than just membership. On all levels, they have worked together with The American Legion to promote a wide variety of programs, including assisting the local posts in all activities, Veterans programs (VAVS), VA home and hospital volunteering, Children & Youth activities, and fund raising. In the last three years, the Sons of The American Legion have raised over $1,617,813 for The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, including $618,896.51 in 2015.  The members of SAL have donated over 340,126 in  Veterans Hospitals throughout the country and raised $1,249,154 that has gone directly to the VA hospitals and VA homes for a variety of items including TVs, radios, medical equipment’s, and clothes for the patients.  Also in 2015 a total of $2,127,994 and 734,592 hours of service and support of Americanism programs.

The Detachment of Kansas was re-established in 1979. The membership for that first year was 112 members. The Detachment Commander for 1979 was John Borswell. Since that time the Detachment of Kansas has had a continuous growth in not only membership, but also in support of programs, and participation in the National Organization. In 2015 the Detachment reached its 37^th year of consecutive growth with 6,529 members.

For more information, visit the Kansas Sons of American Legion website: www.salkansas.org

The National Sons of The American Legion website provides information and forms which are not included on the state web site or The American Legion site: www.legion.org.