Wicomico County Post 64 looking to increase membership

SALISBURY, Md. – The American Legion Wicomico Post 64 is looking to revitalize its membership.

The group hosted a special service session for military veterans. They offer the session as a resource for veterans who may need support.

To increase membership in the Eastern Shore American Legion members discussed benefits and membership, and conducted training.

State Commander of the American Legion Department of Maryland, David Heredia, said the stats back up the fact, that there is a vibrant veteran community in the state. He reiterates that the legion is there to support them.

“There are over 480,000 combined veterans and dependents in the state of Maryland, in which we represent as members around 65,000 plus.”

These revitalization meetings hope to work as an outreach to get veterans informed on all the things the organization offers. Post 64 First Vice Commander, Joseph Bender, said, the group has been a key advocate. ” We need to get the veterans out here to understand, that the American legion and all its core, is behind them, their families.”

Since 1919, The legion has been a support system for Veterans’ benefits and they do this based on their four pillars, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Youth. Bender said the organizations push these initiatives not only for veterans but also for their family members. “A lot of times, the families are just as inflicted with PTSD, just as the veteran is, they have to try to adjust how the veterans come back from war.”

Veterans Affairs Representative Stephanie Hallowell encourages veterans to become members. “Due to your honorable service, you are entitled to this for free, that’s why we’re here. That’s why the American Legion family is a non-profit organization between the legion, the Sons of American Legion, auxiliary, you did your duty, it’s time for us to help you.”

The next special service session is Saturday, October 19th.