Sons of the American Legion
Squadron 998
Commander
Senior Vice Commander
Junior Vice Commander
Adjutant
Treasurer
Chaplain
Historian
Sergeant @ Arms
Assistant Sergeant @ Arms
John Metzger (NS)
Dave Caruso
Dave Chibnick
Jake Metzger
Don Stepp
Andy Dill (NS)
Howard Hursh
Andrew Caruso (NS)
Jake Metzger (NS)
Events
Sons of The American Legion History

Born in the midst of the Great Depression of the 1930's, and almost killed by the one-two punch of two
wars, the Sons of The American Legion lives on. The idea of a junior American Legion organization was
first discussed at the Legion's 3rd National Convention in 1922. Because so few Legionnaires had yet
become parents, the idea had little national appeal. But by the late 1920's, Legion Posts around the
nation were enrolling Sons of Legionnaires in junior organizations on their own. These groups were
variously known as Legion-Heirs, the Junior Legion, Sons of American Legionnaires and Sons of World
War Veterans.
The Sons of The American Legion (S.A.L.) is a program of The American Legion established in 1932 in
Portland, Oregon. Since then, the S.A.L. have assisted The American Legion with their programs and
activities. In 1999, they attained an all time high membership of over 223,000 plus members nationally
Trophies and awards are given to Detachments and Squadrons for the largest membership and the
Membership in the S.A.L. 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 S.A.L. 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
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
activities, and fund raising. Since 1988, the Sons of The American Legion have raised over a million of
S.A.L. have donated over 127,000 volunteer hours for 1999 in the Veterans Hospitals throughout the
country and raised over $514,000 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.
S.A.L. 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.
2009-2010 Officers
From the Commanders Desk
Sons of the American Legion Squadron 998
4700 Derry St.
Lawnton, Pa 17111
717-564-1015