"The Legion’s presence on the American scene has long been accepted as an integral part of our social and cultural landscape. Yet the manner and the degree to which this familiar organization has been a democratic force in our society, and has affected public policy will surprise many who are not intimately familiar with its accomplishments." This quotation was taken from the Introduction to the book, "The American Legion, An Official History 1919-1989," by Thomas A. Rumer.

The accomplishments the author speaks of were made mainly by unpaid volunteers who because of love of country and sense of duty, continue to serve long after leaving the armed forces. The more I learn about The American Legion the more proud I am to be associated with such great people.

I have used the above mentioned book to research some of my columns. If you want to learn more about the first 70 years of The American Legion this is the book you should read.