Learning Through Action
Americanism is a fundamental value of the American Legion Auxiliary. Our Preamble states “To foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism…” The term “Americanism” covers all of the things that have made the American nation great and the American people free. It implies qualities of character as well as principles of government.
Our Auxiliary Americanism program promotes patriotism, citizenship, and respect for the flag through various activities, including civic education for youth via programs like Girls State, the Americanism Essay Contest, and community efforts that foster respect for veterans and military families. These programs educate participants on their rights and responsibilities as citizens, encouraging them to uphold American values and ensure that patriotism is a cornerstone of the community for generations to come.
Texas Bluebonnet Girls State
A program with a history of building connections and educating younger generations on the duties, privileges, and responsibilities of being an American citizen. Together, all citizens of the program work to form their own cities, write and pass laws, collect taxes, solve city and state issues, campaign for office, and vote. Together, they learn by doing.
Click here for more information on Texas Bluebonnet Girls State
Star Spangled Kids
Educating our children about American history is extremely important to our country’s civic health. “Star Spangled Kids” is the American Legion Auxiliary initiative to educate our youth about United States history, Americanism, and the U.S. Constitution.
- Unit Citizenship Awards presented to children and youth who have demonstrated the ideals of the U.S. Constitution.
- Bringing Veterans or servicemembers to local schools and youth groups to talk about what their service means to defending the ideals of the Constitution.
- Distributing patriotic coloring books for children in primary grades.
- Celebrating Constitution Day (also known as Citizenship Day) on September 17, the day set aside each year to commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution.
- Distributing pocket copies of the U.S. Constitution for school children and/or ALA Junior Members.
- Encouraging high school-aged students to use their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution by participating in The American Legion Oratorical Contest.
Americanism Essay Contest
The Americanism Essay Contest was created to teach students the value of patriotism and what it means to be Americans. Thousands of students participate in the program each year and help promote a lifelong respect of our flag and country.
Students (grades 3 to 12) explore the fundamental rights and freedoms we enjoy today. Each year’s contest has a different theme; one student in each category per division is awarded a prize. There is a category for students with special needs.
Current Essay Theme: “Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday and the Veterans who Fought for Our Freedom.”
Click here for cover sheet for 2026 Americanism Essay Contest
Flag Education
Respect for the flag – engaging the community
- Flag Education in Schools
- Recognition of Outstanding Community Flag Display
- Flag Retirement Ceremonies
Click for more information on The American Legion Flag Advocacy Programs
Click for more information on the F.L.A.G. Program
Wreaths Across America
In August 2023, the American Legion Auxiliary national organization joined forces with Wreaths Across America (WAA) to build a stronger awareness of each group’s common missions while supporting fundraising efforts nationwide. Wreaths Across America is an incredible organization whose mission is to remember our fallen U.S. veterans, honor those who serve, and teach our children the value of freedom. Wreaths Across America’s mission closely aligns with the ALA’s as they continue to pay homage to our heroes after they have passed from this world.
ALA units can take part in the Wreaths Across America Sponsorship Group Program. Units that register as a “$5-back group” will earn $5 for every $17 sponsorship earned — allowing the donor to essentially “do good twice” and support both programs and missions.
As a volunteer Sponsorship Group, you will be responsible for networking within your local community to gather wreath sponsorships. You will select at least one cemetery to support as a group, whether it’s Arlington National Cemetery or another cemetery in your state or within your local community.
To sign up as a Sponsorship Group, visit: https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/GetInvolved/LeadASponsorshipGroup
Memorial Day Ideas
- Join The American Legion in conducting Memorial Day services in your area by leading in the Pledge of Allegiance or giving out small American flags to the attendees.
- Support the display of the American flag in your city or town by asking merchants to fly our flag. You may want to give a certificate of appreciation to those that participate.
- Place American flags in cemeteries to honor those who have served. Please check with the cemetery maintenance or management to get permission first.
- Put articles in the newspaper on flag etiquette, the history of our flag, or supporting the flag amendment in conjunction with Memorial Day. Our website, www.ALAforVeterans.org, offers a selection of news releases and letters to the editor on the “marketing and promotional materials” page.
- Window displays in businesses is another way to show Americanism. I recently saw posters that were made by children using their handprints. They put red, white, and blue paint on their hands to make a flag, then pressed their hand on the poster, and each child’s first name was put below their handprint. The handprints looked like little American flags. Written on the side was the following, “although our hands are very small, we made these flags to fly for all. We might be too young to understand, but we know these colors are something grand. May the red, white, and blue forever stand!”
- A flag retirement can also be a part of a Memorial Day event. (Remember to never take a picture of the flag burning)
- American Legion Baseball starts around Memorial Day and by supporting this Legion program, you are also supporting Americanism. There are many projects you can do within the baseball program.
- Some American Legion Auxiliary units distribute poppies on or around Memorial Day. Having small American flags on display along with flag etiquette brochures while you are distributing your poppies will create interest and questions.