To the Editor:

This year, 2019, is the American Legion’s Centenary year.

Early in 1919, several officers of the American Expeditionary Force (a formation of the United States Army on the Western Front of World War I) were asked to come up with ideas on how to improve troop morale. Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roosevelt Jr., son of President Theodore Roosevelt, suggested an organization of veterans.

A temporary committee was formed and about 1,000 officers and enlisted men attended the Paris Caucus in March 1919. A temporary constitution and the name The American Legion were adopted.

Then and now, the Legion supports the four principles on which it was founded: Veteran Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children and Youth. The Legion is nonpolitical and nonsectarian.

On Tuesday, May 7, at 7:30 p.m., representatives of the Voorheesville American Legion Post 1493 will present a history of the Legion and local veteran organizations. Come and learn more about the accomplishments of these vital veterans’ groups and join us as we celebrate The American Legion’s 100th anniversary.

This program is at the Wyman Osterhout Community Center in New Salem on Old New Salem Road. Admission is always free. Also, the NSHA museum will be open one half-hour before the program.

Judy Kimes

Publicist

New Scotland

Historical Association