how to join

NATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR VETERANS AND  ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY MEMBERS:
In a significant legislative victory for The American Legion, President Trump signed a bill July 30, 2019 that declares the United States has been in a state of war since Dec. 7, 1941.

Now that the legislation has been signed, The American Legion’s eligibility criteria immediately changes from seven war eras to two: April 6, 1917 to Nov. 11, 1918, and Dec. 7, 1941 to a time later determined by the federal government. No other restrictions to American Legion membership are changed.

If you are currently on active duty, serving the United States honorably, anywhere in the world, or have served honorably during any of the following eligible war eras, we invite you to become a member of The American Legion:

April 6, 1917 to Nov. 11, 1918 
Dec. 7, 1941 to Today

All persons who have served honorably in the United States military, Reserves or Coast Guard, including those on active duty, and their family members, are encouraged to consider joining this diverse group of like-minded men and women.
To get started: read, print, complete & sign the Post 256 Membership Application form.

Send the completed Post 256 Membership Application form along with your check or money order for the first year dues [$45]  to: 

Membership
American Legion Post 256
454 N. Main Street
Canandaigua NY  14424

Include:
- a copy of your DD-214 [or Coast Guard equivalent]
- OR, if on active duty, a copy of your current orders

For more information about what it means to be a member of the American Legion, or to schedule a tour of Post 256 in Canandaigua NY, please call (585) 394-3790 or send us a message at post256@alny256.com. One of our Board members or Officers will respond. We welcome your call or visit and we look forward to hearing from you!

Women, girls and male spouse's interested in joining the Post 256 Auxiliary, please go to the Post 256 Auxiliary paragraph on the "About Us" page.

Male descendants of veterans interested in joining the Post 256 Sons of the American Legion please go to the Sons of the American Legion paragraph on the "About Us" page.