Sons of The American Legion: Detachment of Louisiana

Honoring Veterans, Building Community

The SAL Preamble

Proud possessors of a priceless heritage, we male descendants of veterans of all wars, associate ourselves together as “Sons of The American Legion” for the following purposes:

To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America;
to maintain law and order; to foster and perpetuate a true spirit of Americanism;
to preserve the memories of our former members and the associations of our members and our forefathers in all wars;
to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation;
to combat the autocracy of both the classes and masses;
to make right the master of might;
to promote peace and good will on earth;
to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy;
to consecrate and sanctify our friendship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness;
to adopt in letter and spirit all of the great principles for which The American Legion stands; and to assist in carrying on for God and Country.

History of the SONS of American Legion

The Sons of The American Legion was created in 1932 as an organization within The American Legion. The SAL is made up of boys and men of all ages whose parents or grandparents served in the United States military and became eligible for membership in The American Legion.

Together, members of The American Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion make up what is known as the Legion Family. All three organizations place high importance on preserving our American traditions and values, improving the quality of life for our nation's children, caring for veterans and their families, and perhaps most importantly, teaching the fundamentals of good citizenship.

The SAL has study programs recommended for younger members. One such program, called "The Ten Ideals," teaches the elements of patriotism, health, knowledge, training, honor, faith, helpfulness, courtesy, reverence and comradeship. If a member completes the Ten Ideals program, he is eligible to continue with another program called the "Five-Point Program of Service." This program covers patriotism, citizenship, discipline, leadership and legionism.

SAL Membership Eligibility Requirements

All male descendants adopted sons, and stepsons of members of The American Legion, and such male descendants of veterans who died in service during the period of April 6, 1917, through November 11, 1918, or any time from December 7, 1941, to date, who served honorably, as set forth in Article IV of the National Constitution of The American Legion, or who died subsequent to their honorable discharge from such service, shall be eligible for membership in the Sons of The American Legion..
There shall be no forms or class of membership except an active membership.
No person may be a member at any one time of more than one squadron.

Join the Legacy

Our Impact & Programs

Child Well-Being Foundation:

The Child Well-Being Foundation provides critical grants to nonprofit organizations across the nation to address the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of children. It is an ongoing, core project for all SAL squadrons to raise funds and support the betterment of youth in our communities.

Support Today →

Flying Flags for Heroes:

Flying Flags for Heroes is a nationwide initiative to place American flags on veterans' graves at local cemeteries to show respect for their military service and sacrifices. This program aims to inspire true patriotism and national pride within our local communities every day of the year.

Get Involved →

Wreaths Across America (LA Detachment):

The Louisiana Detachment proudly supports the mission to remember the fallen and honor those who serve by laying remembrance wreaths on veterans' gravesites at national cemeteries across our state. Through these ceremonies, we help teach the next generation the value of freedom while honoring our country's heroes.

Donate Locally →

Is Your Squadron's Impact Being Counted?

Every volunteer hour and dollar donated between June 1st and May 31st counts. This data is reported to the U.S. Congress and used to apply for national awards. Please ensure all reports are submitted to the Detachment by the June Convention.

Submit Your 2025-2026 CSR

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to join the Sons of The American Legion?

Membership is open to all male descendants, adopted sons, and stepsons of members of The American Legion, or of deceased veterans who served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces during any qualifying period since December 7, 1941.

What documents do I need to prove my eligibility?

To join, you must provide a copy of the veteran's discharge papers (usually a DD214) to verify their honorable service during a qualifying period. If you do not have a copy, you can request one at archives.gov/veterans.

How much are annual membership dues?

Dues rates are determined by each individual local Squadron. While nationwide SAL dues average around $40-$50, you should contact the specific Post/Squadron you wish to join for their current annual rate.

When does my membership expire?

All SAL memberships expire on December 31st of each year. National Headquarters begins accepting dues for the upcoming year on July 1st. We recommend renewing by January 1st to remain in good standing.

Can I manage my membership information online?

Yes. Members can create an account at MyLegion.org. This secure site allows you to update your address, print a membership card, and access member-only discounts and digital subscriptions.

What is the Consolidated Squadron Report (CSR)?

The CSR is the annual report used to track the volunteer hours and donations made by your Squadron. This data is critical because it is reported to the U.S. Congress to justify our organization’s federal charter. Completed reports are due to the Detachment by the June Convention. You can submit yours via our Reporting Page.