History of American Legion Post 117, Pendleton, Indiana
American Legion Post 117 in Pendleton, Indiana, is a long-standing veterans’ organization with roots dating back to 1921, when it was established as a local gathering place for veterans and their families. It has since grown into a community hub offering benefits counseling, social events, youth programs, and memorial services.
Founding and Early Years
Post 117 was founded in 1921 as part of the American Legion network, which itself was created in 1919 in Paris, France, by officers and enlisted men of the American Expeditionary Forces. The Legion’s mission was to support veterans, promote patriotism, and assist in the transition of service members to civilian life. Post 117’s early years reflected these goals, providing a space for veterans to connect, share experiences, and support one another.
Organizational Status
In 1936, Post 117 was formally incorporated as Pendleton Post #117, the American Legion, Department of Indiana, Inc., a domestic non-profit corporation under Indiana law. This incorporation solidified its role as a recognized veterans’ post within the state’s American Legion structure.
Community Role
Over the decades, Post 117 has served as:
- A benefits counseling center for veterans navigating the VA process.
- A social and event venue for veterans and their families, including happy hours, gatherings, and community celebrations.
- A youth and civic engagement hub, supporting local service projects and memorial services .
Current Operations
The post remains active at 611 W. State Street, Pendleton, IN 46064, and continues to welcome veterans who served at least one day of active military duty during eligible wartime periods and were honorably discharged. Family members may join the American Legion Auxiliary or Sons of the American Legion.
Affiliated Organizations
A Women's Auxiliary of American Legion Post ____ was formed on _______. The Legion has every reason to be proud of it's Auxiliary. Auxiliary members are always anxious and willing to co-operate in every Legion activity.
A Sons of the Legion for American Legion Post ____ was formed on _______. The Legion has every reason to be proud of it's Sons of Legion unit, which gained statewide recognition because of it's programs of service.
Patriotic Days
MEMORIAL DAY has always been an outstanding occasion in this community. In addition to memorial events throughout the Pendleton community, the goal of every Veteran to it's last man is to keep MEMORIAL DAY sacred to the memory of our war dead of all of the wars of the country; and all graves are decorated on this National Holiday.
ARMISTICE DAY, now called VETERANS' DAY, Historical Background:
- Armistice Day: Originally established to mark the armistice that ended World War I on November 11, 1918, this day was first commemorated in 1919. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed it as a day of reflection and gratitude for the sacrifices made by soldiers during the war. The day was officially recognized as a legal holiday in the United States in 1938, dedicated to world peace and honoring those who served in World War I.
- Transition to Veterans Day: After World War II and the Korean War, there was a push to honor all veterans, not just those who served in World War I. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day, making it a day to honor all American veterans of all wars.
Scholarships and Community Projects
American LegionPost --- sponsors various scholarships for the further education of our children. We also sponsor and financially assist many worthy community projects and programs initiated by the National American Legion.
Join Us and Keep this History Alive