American Legion Post 259, Oneonta NY
Join the American Legion
Riders membership starts with the Legion family. If you have served at least one day of active military duty since December 7, 1941 and were honorably discharged, or you are still serving honorably, you are eligible for membership in The American Legion. You do not have to be a veteran to join the Legion family.
Why You Should Belong
Support for our veterans
We are dedicated to helping our area veterans and their families in their time of need. By being there when needed, and providing help with programs and initiatives through the National American Legion, we are proud to be a resource for those who have served.
Advocacy
The National American Legion works to ensure that the rights and benefits of veterans are protected, and that their needs are met. As a member, you can help advocate for issues affecting veterans and their families.
Community
Through local and national events, you can connect with others who have served and build meaningful relationships.
Leadership opportunities
If you are interested in organizing events, serving on committees, or taking on a larger role to help our veterans, the American Legion provides a platform for growth and development.
Legacy
By joining the American Legion, you become part of an organization that has been serving veterans and their families for over 100 years. Supporting that legacy helps ensure future generations of veterans receive the support they need.
Veterans Helping Veterans, Families, and Communities
The American Legion is active every day. Its members work together to support their local communities, focusing on services organized under the organization's four pillars:
- Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation
- National Security
- Americanism
- Children and Youth
Since its incorporation by Congress as a patriotic veterans organization in 1919, the American Legion has grown into the largest veterans organization of its kind, with programs meant to benefit the community and promote grassroots activity where Legionnaires live. That work takes shape in many ways, including advocating for honor and patriotism, mentoring young people, sponsoring community youth programs, and supporting active service members and veterans.
As a nonpartisan and nonprofit organization, the American Legion has played a major part in local programs and national efforts advocating for veterans and their continued quality of life. The mission is to enhance the well-being of America's veterans, their families, our military, and our communities through devotion to mutual helpfulness.
Member Benefits
Discounts
From car rental to insurance, American Legion members and their families can take advantage of practical, money-saving discounts.
Magazine
The American Legion magazine is a monthly publication featuring in-depth analysis, historical stories, interviews with high-profile officials, and news about veterans issues.
VA benefit assistance
Your membership helps support department service officers nationwide who assist veterans in preparing claims and obtaining their full military health care benefits through the VA.
Are You Eligible?
If you have served at least one day of active military duty since December 7, 1941 and were honorably discharged, or you are still serving active military duty honorably, you are eligible for membership with The American Legion.
You do not have to be a veteran to join the American Legion family.
The American Legion Family consists of The American Legion, the Sons of the American Legion (SAL), and the American Legion Auxiliary. To be eligible for membership in the Sons of the American Legion, you must be a male descendant (son, grandson, stepson, or adopted son) of a member of The American Legion. To be eligible for membership in the American Legion Auxiliary, you must be a female descendant (grandmother, mother, sister, daughter) or the spouse of a member of The American Legion.
Help Us Support Veterans
Download the application below, or give us a call and we will walk you through joining the Legion, SAL, or Auxiliary and send you a membership packet. Once you are in the Legion family and you ride, you can join the Riders too.