Designating American Legion Day

Heading to the House floor is a bill that would designate Sept. 16 as American Legion Day.

Sponsored by Rep. John Ward (DFL-Brainerd), HF2538 would “recognize the millions of American Legion veterans who have dedicated and continue to dedicate themselves to service of community, state and nation.”

By designating a day for American Legion veterans, it’s another way to “take a day to say thank you for your service,” Ward said. His grandfather and father were both past commanders of American Legion posts, he said.

Sept. 16 commemorates the date in 1919 that Congress chartered the American Legion. Roger Ball, legislative chairman for Minnesota’s fourth district of the American Legion, said, “In towns small and large, the American Legion is there to help veterans, their families and the children and youth of the community. It’s not just what we do, it’s who we are.”

The House Agriculture, Rural Economies and Veterans Affairs Committee approved the bill Feb. 15. A companion, SF2528, sponsored by Sen. Paul Koering (R-Fort Ripley), awaits action by the Senate Agriculture and Veterans Committee.