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Our
charge is to pass the baton of Patriotism, Americanism and Citizenship (that
we have received from our fathers and grandfathers) not only to children of
the community, but to the parents as well.
Our
focus will be on:
·
The
American Flag, Flag education, and Love of the Flag.
·
Patriotism,
Americanism and love of Country.
·
Citizenship
and its individual obligations.
The Twelve Folds of Our Flag
How to with Pictures! (Click here)
The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life.
The second fold is a symbol of our belief in the eternal life.
The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks and who gave a portion of life for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
The fourth fold represents our weaker nature; for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in times of war for His divine guidance.
The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, “Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right, but it is still our country, right or wrong.”
The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.
The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor our mother, for whom it flies on Mother’s Day.
The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood, for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded.
The tenth fold is a tribute to father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since he or she was first born.
The eleventh fold, in the eyes of Hebrew citizens, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies, in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Ghost.
When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, “In God We Trust.”
After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington and the sailors and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.
Preamble to the Sons of the American Legion National Constitution
Proud possessors of a priceless heritage, we
male descendants of veterans of the Great Wars, associate ourselves together as
"Sons of The American Legion" for the following purposes:
The Sons of The American Legion (SAL) is a program of The American Legion established in 1932 in Portland, Oregon. Since then, the SAL have assisted The American Legion with their programs and activities.
In 1996, they attained an all time high membership of over 189,701 members nationally and have already surpassed that for 1996. The largest Detachment (State level) has over 25,000 plus members. Trophies and awards are given to Detachments and Squadrons for the largest membership and the largest increase in membership. The American Legion, the Sons of The American Legion, and the American Legion Auxiliary form the "Legion Family." Our family boasts a combined total membership of nearly 4.2 million members.
Membership in the SAL is open to all male descendants, adopted sons and stepsons of members of The American Legion. Also accepted are any such descendants of veterans who died in service during the eligibility periods set forth in Article IV, Section 1, of the National Constitution of The American Legion or who died subsequent to their honorable discharge from such service. Since the eligibility age begins from date of birth, activities and programs of squadrons are determined by age groups within squadrons and the needs of the community. Just as each Legion post determines the extent of its service to the community, state, and nation, so each squadron is permitted flexibility in planning programs and activities to meet its own needs. The average age of an SAL member is estimated at 33 years of age.
The Sons of the American Legion have study programs recommended for younger members, however, this is not limited to just them. The program is called The Ten Ideals, patriotism, health, knowledge, training, honor, faith, helpfulness, courtesy, reverence, and comradeship. Once completed, members may continue with another program called the Five-Point Program of Service. This program covers patriotism, citizenship, discipline, leadership, and legionism.
The Sons of The American Legion is more than just membership. On all levels, they have worked together with The American Legion to promote a wide variety of programs, including assissting the local posts in all activities, Veterans programs (VAVS), VA home and hospital volunteering, Children & Youth activities, and fund raising. Since 1988, the Sons of The American Legion have raised over $475,000 for The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, including $116,000, in 1996. The members of SAL have donated over 63,000 volunteer hours for 1996 in the Veterans Hospitals throughout the country and raised over $242,000 that has gone directly to the VA hospitals and VA homes for a variety of items including TVs, radios, medical equipment, and clothes for the patients.
The Sons of The American Legion is one of the organizations that make up the Citizens Flag Alliance , a coalition formed to secure Flag protection legislation through an amendment to the U.S. Constitution. SAL volunteers work to establish local networks by having petitions available and handing out informational material. They alert the community of the importance of Flag display and respect, while encouraging Flag education programs in schools and other local organizations.
Activities of the Sons of The American Legion are covered, in-depth, in their newsletter National Update which is produced three times per year.
Contact: Gary Myrom
300 North Drew St.
Redwood Falls, MN 56283
507-627-8473
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