American Legion, The 1960s and 1970s: POWs, National Emergency Fund, Freedom Bell

1960s

SEPTEMBER 1, 1966--  The Legion voices concern over POWs in Vietnam and urges full accounting.  That has now grown to include all wars.

AUGUST 24, 1969--  The Legion's National Executive Board establishes the  National Emergency Fund as a result of Hurricane Camille.  (Up to $3,000 for each member in a disaster.)

1970s

MAY 1, 1972--  Legion implements a Halloween  safety program for children which remains the only national program in the country.

APRIL 1, 1975--  The Legion-sponsored Freedom Bell goes on the Freedom Train on its tour of the country for the U.S. Bicentennial.

I will continue with these important dates in the May newsletter, on our second 100th anniversary commemoration for the St. Louis caucus.