LegacyRun2025 raised $855,785 for the Veterans & Children Foundation (Photo: National American Legion Riders)
Editor’s note: This article has been updated for our November 2025 newsletter.
The American Legion’s 106th National Convention was held earlier this fall at the Tampa Convention Center, bringing together thousands of Veterans, families, and supporters for a week of tributes, policy discussions, and forward-looking initiatives.
One of the most memorable moments was when Medal of Honor recipient Dwight Birdwell addressed delegates. Birdwell, who received the nation’s highest military honor for his heroism in Vietnam, recounted his 2022 White House ceremony with President Joe Biden and reflected on his award as a tribute to those who did not survive the battle. Recently joining The American Legion as a member of Post 30 in Lincolnton, N.C., Birdwell reminded attendees that “every job in the military is important” and urged Veterans and families to take pride in their service.
U.S. Senator Ashley Moody (R-Fla.) welcomed attendees on opening day, praising the Legion’s ongoing commitment to service. She urged Veterans to continue leading in their communities and in public life.
Emcee and wounded Army Combat Veteran Scotty Hasting energized attendees with a performance and personal message of gratitude.
Natural disaster response was a major focus. A Disaster Preparedness Panel featured Legionnaires from North Carolina, California, and Texas, who shared firsthand accounts of recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, the Palisades Fire, and flooding in Kerr County. Panelists described challenges ranging from destroyed posts to long-term rebuilding efforts, highlighting the Legion Family’s resilience and leadership in times of crisis.
The convention also celebrated achievements and service. National Commander James LaCoursiere Jr. presented the Distinguished Service Medal to the U.S. Marine Corps, accepted by Maj. Gen. Joseph Clearfield, as the branch marks its 250th anniversary alongside the Army and Navy.
Jackie Robinson Color Guard (Photo: Renee Alexander)
The ALA Jackie Robinson Color Guard took first place in the Military Open Class, second place in the Open Class, and third place in Post and Retrieve.
LegacyRun2025 raised $855,785 for the Veterans & Children Foundation, with top donors including The American Legion Departments of California, South Carolina, Virginia, Texas, and Maryland.
The American Legion partnered with Hiring Our Heroes to host a LinkedIn workshop and hiring fair for Veterans and military spouses, providing direct access to more than 20 employers.
The Foreign and Outlying Posts and Departments of The American Legion, FODPAL, elected new officers and recognized award winners during its annual breakfast meeting.
Innovation in Veterans’ health care took center stage during the Veterans Health Hackathon, held in collaboration with the VA, MIT Hacking Medicine, Microsoft, and others. Nearly 500 participants worked with Veterans to develop solutions aimed at improving access to care, operational efficiency, and coordination within the VA system. Winning projects will advance to a makeathon and accelerator program to refine and test their ideas.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
