1930s

June 30, 1930
The federal Veterans Administration is established after tireless lobbying from The American Legion.

Sept. 12-15, 1932
The Sons of The American Legion is founded and officially recognized during the 1932 National Convention in Portland, Ore.

June 23, 1935
The first American Legion Boys State convenes in Springfield, Ill., to help high school boys gain an understanding of the structure and operation of the federal government. 

Jan. 19 – March 11, 1937
The American Legion raises over $250,000 and delivers it to the Red Cross to help victims of floods on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.

June 1, 1938
The final round of the Legion’s first annual National High School Oratorical Contest is conducted in Norman, Okla.