(Click on the picture to the left to see the whole article)

In the American Legion Magazine for February 2026, the American Legion National Commander had a posting on the Commander’s Message discussing the Legion’s interoperation of Americanism.  The following is a copy of his article.

A 21st – century definition of Americanism

  Every so often, it is helpful to reexamine frequently used terms, for the sake of clarity, accuracy, and relevance. This is especially true of “Americanism,” one of the pillars upon which The American Legion was founded in 1919.

  The Legion is among the fiercest defenders of our great country and the timeless ideals enshrined in the Constitution.  Yet the language we use to express these ideals must be modernized – without changing the meaning – for our time.  With this in mind, the National Executive Committee issued an updated definition of Americanism at its meeting last October in Indianapolis – the first in 63 years.

  The new Resolution 30 defines Americanism, in part, “as a steadfast and heartfelt devotion to the founding principles, enduring values and civic responsibilities of the United States of America, a devotion inspired and exemplified by those who have honorably served in uniform…”

  Those values include loyalty to the Constitution, reverence for sacrifice, commitment to democratic principles, patriotic citizenship, and respect for God, country, and all Americans. In short, Americanism is not about what divides us, but what unites us.  You’ll find the entire 441-word resolution online at archive.legion.org, searching “definition of Americanism.”

  We echo our organization’s founders in believing this commitment to community, state, and nation begins at home. “No man can be simultaneously a good citizen of the nation and a poor citizen of the state, or community, nor can he fully discharge his obligations as a citizen unless he preserves the ideals and traditions of American home-life at his own fireside,” the Americanism Commission told the Legion’s 1925 national convention.  “Therefore, it is of primary importance that The American Legion give particular attention to the promotion of family integrity and community spirit.”

Dan K Wiley

American Legion - Commander