American Legion Auxiliary
Department of Maryland, Inc
Q1
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What is the difference between the Auxiliary and other veterans’ organizations?
A:
The American Legion Auxiliary, although not the first such organization, is the largest patriotic women's service organization in world. Affiliated with The American Legion and chartered by Congress in 1920, the Auxiliary is a veterans' service organization volunteer representation in all 173 VA Medical Centers. Nearly one million Auxiliary members in nearly 11,000 American communities provide a rich and varied resource pool of ability, talent and leadership experience
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Q2: What are the advantages of Auxiliary membership?
A:
The Auxiliary is a highly visible, remarkable organization, with 75 proud years of service to veterans and the nation's communities. In addition to the personal gratification and rewards gained in voluntary service, there are many tangible benefits for members of the Auxiliary. Members receive a complimentary subscription to the Auxiliary's bimonthly publication, National News, special MasterCard and money-market investment plans, free travel and accident insurance, low-cost life and health insurance coverage, and discounts on interstate moves, eye-glasses, hearing aids, prescriptions and rental cars. Auxiliary members who find themselves without other resources can obtain temporary, emergency financial assistance or money for schooling to re-enter the job market.
Q3: How does the Auxiliary support American servicemen and women during overseas deployment?
A:
When thousands of men and women on active duty and in the reserves are called to overseas ventures, many service families need help to cope with the emotional and financial burdens caused by the sudden separation and disruption to their lives. The American Legion and Auxiliary pledge their "mutual helpfulness" to support the families of American servicemen and women while they serve overseas through the Family Support Network, a national emergency assistance program, in which military families call a toll-free number manned by Auxiliary and Legion members with requests for help.
Q4: How are unserviceable flags destroyed?
A:
The Flag Code suggests that, "when a flag has served its useful purpose, it should be destroyed, preferably by burning." For individual citizens, this should be done discreetly so the act of destruction is not perceived as a protest or desecration. Many American Legion Posts conduct Disposal of Unserviceable Flag Ceremonies on June 14, Flag Day. This ceremony creates a particularly dignified and solemn occasion for the retirement of unserviceable flags.
Q5: What are the penalties for the physical desecration of the flag?
A:
There are currently no penalties for the physical desecration of the flag. The American Legion & other members of the Citizens Flag Alliance continue working towards securing a Constitutional amendment to protect the flag from physical desecration.
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