The American Legion: What it means to Belong
By Michael Wojciechowski

Growing up in the 60s and 70s, I watched a number of military genre movies. I remember some of the actors, the wars, the heroes, their missions, and sometimes their ultimate sacrifice. I entered the Navy at 18 feeling a bit invincible. But I learned many things along the way: Respect, discipline, teamwork, traditions, loyalty and devotion, just to name a few.

And then when I retired after 22 years of service in the Illinois National Guard, I didn't think the VFW or The American Legion would play a role in my life. I knew they existed, but never knew their cause or who they represented entirely.

In a nutshell, they represent veterans on different levels: both Cold War and Combat veterans. They also represent their families in the Auxiliary, Sons of the Legion and the Boosters.

All for a common cause: Giving back to those who supported them during their tours of duty, to their families and to their communities.

Please thank them for their service. And not just on Armed Forces Day, Poppy Day, Memorial Day or Veterans Day, but EVERY day!