American Legion seeking more veteran members The American Legion was founded in March 1919 in Paris, France, by a dedicated group of servicemen. Their one hope was to see that men and women of the armed services received benefits they so richly deserved. After 85 years, we find that most veterans are not aware of the many projects started by the American Legion that are ongoing today. The American Legion worked for and achieved a G.I. Bill of Rights, which allowed them to attend college. The Legion also obtained a flag code, providing instructions on the proper display of our flag, its meaning to the country and the proper means of disposal. The American Legion is still working tirelessly to have the people of the United States be given the right to vote on whether there should be an amendment to the Constitution preventing the desecration of our flag. It is unfortunate that New Jersey’s two senators, Frank Lautenberg and Jon Corzine, say the people should not have that right. We helped develop a Veteran’s Administration health care system now available to all veterans. We are working to assure an accurate portrayal of historic events. We work with and sponsor Boy Scout, Cub Scout and Girl Scout troops. We develop and coordinate Boys State and Boys Nation for 11th-grade students in our high schools. We sponsor an oratorical contest nationwide. We sponsor coloring and safety essay contests for our younger students. We sponsor American Legion baseball teams in all 50 states. We provide a national emergency fund to help those devastated by catastrophic events as hurricanes, floods or earthquakes. Last, but not least, we help provide job-assistance programs and scholarships for children and grandchildren of veterans. We need veterans to join their local posts. We need your help to continue our programs. Edward McGrory vice commander and public relations officer American Legion Post 471, Iselin