AMERICANISM
The American Legion, at heart, is a patriotic organization and the nation's leading authority on U.S. Flag education, respect and etiquette. The American Legion promotes good citizenship, respectful expression of the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance. Members participate in community parades and activities.
These activities include:
- Respect for and Retirement of the U.S. Flags. The post collects used and damaged flags from local community collection points, e.g., Madison FIre Departments and conducts periodic ceremonies to properly dispose of these flags.
- Providing appropriate attention during the National Anthem and posting of the colors, when requested at community events.
- Respect for law and order and provide awards to the outstanding local Police and Fire Departments public defenders.
- Support for the U.S. Constitution. High School students are provided an annual opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge of some aspect of the constitution in the delivery of their thoughts and perspectives in a competitive speech event (Oratorical Contest) conducted at various levels of the American Legion organizations. Generous scholarships and/or other prozes are awarded to the top contenders at each level.
- Patriotic community activities and involvement in special events. Legion members with support from other community organzations put out wreaths at the graves of veterans at various cemeteries during the Holiday season. They also place flags at the veteran grave sites during Veterans week and during Memorial Day time frame.