Declining membership challenges Florida American Legion posts

The nation’s largest and most active veterans’ organization, the American Legion, is facing a decline in its membership. With over 300 American Legion posts across the state, the organization is at risk of further reduction if changes are not made. To discuss this issue, WPTV anchor and Navy veteran Mike Trim interviewed local American Legion leaders, including Southern Area Commander Johnny Castro, who is responsible for overseeing American Legion activities from Key West to parts of the Treasure Coast.

In a conversation with Trim, Commander Castro expressed concern over the declining membership. He admitted that the current situation in the state was bleak and emphasized the need to bring the numbers back up. The decline in membership can be attributed to the passing of World War II-era veterans and the lack of new generation veterans filling the ranks.

Commander Castro explained that the American Legion’s intention is to attract younger veterans and their family members by organizing engaging events. In order to achieve this goal, the organization is working on breaking old stigmas associated with joining. The aim is to make the American Legion more than just a place for cheap drinks, good food, and dancing on Saturday nights.

Meanwhile, in Port St. Lucie, one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, American Legion Post 318 under the leadership of Commander John Hayes boasts one of the largest memberships in the state, with over 1,500 members. Commander Hayes clarifies that the mission of the American Legion goes far beyond providing entertainment; it is crucial to support veterans in various ways, such as helping homeless veterans, providing job training, and offering financial support.

Despite the success of Post 318, the overall trend of declining membership persists. Commander Hayes notes that veterans from the Afghan and Gulf Wars are not joining at the same rate as their predecessors, primarily due to the demands of a two-family income and the need to work multiple jobs. Nevertheless, legion members are ready to tackle this challenge, just as they did during their military service.

The American Legion has been instrumental in supporting the passage of the Pact Act, which grants improved medical access for burn pit, Agent Orange, and other service-related illnesses. This demonstrates the commitment of the organization to advocating for veterans.

Trim asked Commander Hayes how he would pitch the American Legion to potential members in 2023. Hayes responded by inviting them to visit the post and share their experiences, as well as support other veterans. He also emphasized the Legion’s efforts in helping homeless veterans, providing job training, and offering financial assistance.

Moving forward, Castro hopes that an upcoming back-to-school bash will attract hundreds of families to join the American Legion. Joining the organization requires an annual membership fee of approximately $40. For those interested in finding a local post, the American Legion website offers information on nearby posts.

In conclusion, the American Legion, the nation’s largest veteran organization, is facing a decline in membership. Despite this challenge, Legion leaders are actively working to engage younger veterans and their families through events and initiatives. While certain posts like Post 318 in Port St. Lucie have seen success, there is still a need to attract veterans from recent conflicts. The American Legion remains committed to supporting veterans and has played a crucial role in advocating for improved medical access. The organization encourages potential members to join and contribute to its mission of helping veterans in various ways.