Dear Editor:

I am writing this in an effort to inform former armed service members, current service members and the general public about a recent change to the eligibility rules for the American Legion that they may not be aware of.

The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919. That charter gives Congress the responsibility to set the eligibility terms for members. Until recently, only veterans who served during wartime were eligible for regular membership in the American Legion. For the past few decades, the national arm of the Legion has annually passed Resolution Number 1, urging Congress to make changes to the eligibility requirements. This session Congress complied and passed the Legion Act and President Trump signed it into law.

What this does is enable any service member that is honorably discharged to become a regular member in the American Legion. It also is an added benefit because social members who want to become a Son of the American Legion or an Auxiliary member can do so whether or not their veteran parent or grandparent served in wartime.

I am hoping all veterans will become aware of this information. If anyone has any questions, please stop by CH Berry Post 173 at 206 W. Broad St. in Tamaqua or visit the local Legion post in your town.

Thank you, and I look forward to seeing you at our Veterans Day Parade at 10 a.m. on Nov. 9 if you reside in our area. God Bless America and those who keep America Safe!

Michael J. Polyak

Tamaqua