The entire American Legion, like the country and most of the world is busy dealing with the unprecedented situation presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of us are stuck in our homes, and there have been opportunities to learn and gain skills that can enhance one’s personal and professional life. Many content owners are making their courses free or deeply discounted, during this time.
The American Legion has a course that has always been free to members, and it will enhance your American Legion membership. The Basic Training Course offered in the training section of the legion.org website, will take you just about 2 hours to complete and then there’s a 30 minute final exam. Yes, you can look up the answers.
The course is multimedia with video, text and images. You will learn about The American Legion in the following sections, as described at legion.org/alei.
History & Organization
Learn why and how The American Legion came into existence after World War I.
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation
The foremost pillar of American Legion service, learn the ways in which the organization is dedicated to compassionate care, timely delivery of benefits, career development and other areas of advocacy for those who have served in uniform.
National Security
Outlined here is The American Legion’s position on a strong, well-equipped and effectively deployed U.S. military, including a decent quality of life for those now in uniform and retirees of the Armed Forces.
Americanism
This pillar of American Legion service is filled with respect for the nation that those in the military swore with their lives to defend, from proper treatment of the U.S. flag to voter education to youth programs that make life-changing differences.
Children & Youth
The American Legion’s long-held position that “every child deserves a square deal” is explained here, to include such programs and efforts as the Child Welfare Foundation, the Family Support Network, Temporary Financial Assistance and other initiatives that aim to help children and youth follow their dreams, no matter their circumstances.
Course Conclusion
See how all the pieces of American Legion service and advocacy fit together to best serve our nation and learn where other committees and commissions play vital roles.
Final Exam
Take an online test to see how well you understand the nation’s largest veterans service organization.
The sections after History & Organization and before Course Conclusion, all mirror The Four Pillars of The American Legion. This course will teach you about the history and mission of the organization that we all belong too.
Consider investing a couple of hours, strengthening your knowledge of The American Legion, giving you the tools and motivation to increase your engagement with your post, district, department or even the national organization. The Basic Training is required for admittance into Legion College on the department and national level, but it is a great way for everyone gain deeper knowledge into the organization with which we all choose to serve. Finally, when you complete the course, you can download your certificate and you earn the right to wear that “Basic Training Graduate” pin on your cover.
Please visit The American Legion Training page for more information.
Author: Jeff Daly
Jeff Daly grew up in Kalamazoo, MI before joining the Marine Corps. After his service he went to the small, private, liberal arts school Kalamazoo College, where he studied Economics and Political Science. Jeff's American Legion time has been short, but packed. He is the 2nd Vice Commander of Post 43, and on the Executive Committee for the LA County Council. He also serves as Technical Advisor for the Department Media & Communications. Being an actor in Hollywood, Jeff serves on the Military Affairs, and the Media & Communications Committee for Los Angeles Local SAG-AFTRA. You can keep up with Jeff's thoughts on veterans issues by subscribing to his podcast. That is hosted at http://anchor.fm/dalydose. From there you can get links to b subscribe on your favorite music & podcast app.
