Commander: Americanism is more than waving flags

Thank you to all who attended the Fall Conference. The turnout was outstanding, the speakers and classes were great, and I hope everyone learned a lot! If you have comments or would like to see other subjects taught at the Fall Conference, please let me know.

When The American Legion was founded in 1919, our founders knew that serving our nation didn’t end when you hung up the uniform. They recognized that the very freedoms we fought to defend had to be nurtured and passed down to the next generation. That is where Americanism comes in.

Americanism is about so much more than waving the flag — though we do that proudly. It is about teaching what our flag stands for. It’s about making sure that every citizen, young and old, understands the values of freedom, democracy and responsible citizenship.

Through the Americanism programs of The American Legion, we inspire a love of country. Our programs like Boys State and Girls State teach young people how government works, showing them that democracy is not a spectator sport. Our support for youth sports — from American Legion Baseball to Junior Shooting Sports — teaches teamwork, discipline and respect for others. The Oratorical Contest teaches youth about the Constitution and what it stands for.

We also stand up for the proper display and respect for the U.S. flag. The American Legion was instrumental in drafting and promoting the U.S. Flag Code. And when flags are no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our nation, we make sure they are retired with dignity and honor — as they deserve.

But Americanism is not just about ceremonies and education. It is about living our values daily. It’s about fostering unity, not division. It’s about encouraging citizens to be informed, to vote and to take part in the civic life of their communities. It is about making sure that freedom remains strong for future generations.

In today’s world, it is easy to get caught up in the challenges we face, but Americanism reminds us that we have overcome challenges before — because we are Americans. We believe in liberty, we believe in justice, and we believe that together, we are stronger than anything that might divide us.

So, as we celebrate and promote the Americanism pillar, let’s recommit ourselves to those values. Let’s mentor our youth, protect the symbols of our nation, and participate fully as citizens. Let us be examples of good citizenship and inspire others to do the same.

Americanism is not just a program of The American Legion — it is the heartbeat of our mission. Together, we can make sure that the ideals we cherish remain bright and strong for generations to come.

Dec. 6 is the Pearl Harbor Family Gathering and the date is fast approaching. The Legion Family will focus on the Americanism and National Security pillars at the gathering.

Please get your meal at this event online at mnlegion.org before Dec. 1 to ensure there will be enough food for everyone. There will be limited meal tickets available the day of the event, which will take place at Buffalo American Legion Post 270, 11 a.m. social, noon lunch, program to follow. (See Page 2.)

Check the mnlegion.org, events tab for more information and how to purchase a meal via Zeffy with no processing fees.

Linda Dvorak of New Prague Post 45 is the commander of The American Legion Department of Minnesota. Her theme is “Back to the Basics – The Four Pillars.”