The Quilts of Valor® program is a heartfelt initiative that honors service members and veterans who have been touched by war. Each handmade quilt is a tangible expression of gratitude, designed to offer comfort, healing, and recognition for the sacrifices made in defense of our nation. Key Links MN ALA Website National Website Third District Social Media MN ALA National ALA For Veterans Third District ALA Facebook Get In Touch Committees Officers For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security. 2025 By Legion Social. Contact the Webmaster. Quilts of Valor The Quilts of Valor® program is a heartfelt initiative that honors service members and veterans who have been touched by war. Each handmade quilt is a tangible expression of gratitude, designed to offer comfort, healing, and recognition for the sacrifices made in defense of our nation. Every stitch represents care and appreciation, creating a lasting symbol that reminds recipients they are valued and remembered. Members of the American Legion Auxiliary and community volunteers proudly contribute their time and talents to this meaningful effort. By presenting these quilts, we not only thank veterans for their service but also provide a sense of peace and warmth that goes beyond words. The Quilts of Valor program helps bridge generations, uniting communities in support of those who have given so much for our freedom. Learn More Minnesota Third District Who We Are Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Programs/Committees Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Membership Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Upcoming Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Media Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Resources Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Key Links Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Menu Close

Learn how students can enter the annual American Legion Oratorical Contest and gain mastery over public speaking, plus scholarship opportunities. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security. Oratorical Contest The American Legion Oratorical Contest is intended to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. There are a number of benefits for students competing in the annual Oratorical Contest on both the State and National level: Over $203,500 in scholarships can be awarded each year The National winner gets a $25,000 scholarship Second place receives $22,500 and third $20,000 Each state winner who participates in the first round receives $2,000 and those who advance to the next round receive an additional $2,000 Scholarships may be used at any college or university in the U.S. High school students under age 20 are eligible. Competition begins at the post level and advances to a state competition. Legion department representatives certify one winner per state to the national contest, where department winners compete against each other in two speaking rounds. The contest caps off with a final round that decides the three top finishers. Find all the rules and information on the National American Legion website. Details The American Legion’s oratorical contest “has instilled in me a greater appreciation for our country.” Key Links MN ALA Website National Website Third District Social Media MN ALA National ALA For Veterans Third District ALA Facebook Get In Touch Committees Officers 2025 By Legion Social. Contact the Webmaster. Minnesota Third District Who We Are Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Programs/Committees Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Membership Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Upcoming Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Media Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Resources Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Key Links Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Menu Close

Joining the American Legion Third District means finding support, camaraderie, and so many more benefits. Make life-long friends who support the same values as you. We Are Legion Becoming a member means a lot. It means joining a community dedicated to honoring and uplifting those who have served their country, providing a network of camaraderie, resources, and advocacy. WHY JOIN HOW TO JOIN ELIGIBILITY RENEW Your Membership Matters Becoming a Member is a wonderful step forward on your journey, whether you have served or not, you'll find a new world of meaning & support along with these benefits: Veteran Support: Access to resources, benefits, and advocacy for veterans and their families. Community Service: Opportunities to give back and make a difference in local communities. Camaraderie: Build lasing friendships and connect with fellow veterans and like-minded individuals. Advocacy: Influence legislation and policies that affect veterans and their families. Programs & Activities: Participate in various events, programs, and activities that support veterans and the community. Scholarships & Education: Access to educational scholarships and programs for members and their families. Health & Wellness: Resources and programs focused on physical and mental well-being. Patriotic Involvement: Promote patriotism and honor those who have served. Youth Programs: Support & engage in programs that foster youth development and education. Networking: Connect with a diverse network of veterans, business leaders, and community members. Exclusive Benefits: Enjoy member-only discounts, insurance programs, and other perks. Legacy: Contribute to preserving the legacy and history of the military service. LEGION.ORG Joining is easy All you need is a little bit of information to join the Legion, Auxiliary, SAL and Legion Riders. Here are three ways you can join: Find a Post and stop in and complete the form and pay your annual dues. Download the Registration Form below, complete and mail to your Post of choice. Join online by going to MyLegion.org and completing the information requested. Once the Membership coordinator receives and verifies your information, you'll receive a Member card in the mail and possibly an email too (depending on the Post.) Who Can Join? You do not need to have served in order to join the American Legion. If someone in your family lineage has served or been a member you may be eligible to join the Sons of the Legion and / or Auxiliary. All Legion Riders must already be a Member to join the rider group. Did you also know that Juniors can join? Find criteria specific to your needs in the links below. Legionnaire / Post Membership Auxiliary Membership Sons of the Legion Membership ALR Membership Renewing your Membership You should receive a renewal notice each year in the mail, but if you don't for some reason you can always: Stop in at your Post and complete the form and pay your annual dues. Download the Registration Form below, complete and mail to your Post. Renew online by going to MyLegion.org and completing the information requested. You will receive a new card in the mail once processed with the current year associated. Please also note, you can save on dues by applying for a Multi-Year Membership . Find out more online . Legion Membership Application SAL Membership Application Auxiliary Membership Application Questions? Stop in, email, or call any Post of your choosing or visit Legion.Org for more information. Learn more at legion.org

Find the forms you need to file for your Sons of the American Legion squadron on this page. Sons of the Legion District Events Find a Squad Officers Join the SAL Squad Resources 2025 Membership Report District Website Event Ideas for SAL Forms Using Social Media Programs We Support Disabled Vets Deer Hunt Legionville Safety Camp MN Boys State TAL Child Welfare Foundation Menu Close Sons of the Legion District Events Find a Squad Officers Join the SAL Squad Resources 2025 Membership Report District Website Event Ideas for SAL Forms Using Social Media Programs We Support Disabled Vets Deer Hunt Legionville Safety Camp MN Boys State TAL Child Welfare Foundation SAL FORMS Find the SAL Officer Reporting Form, Annual Squadron Data Form, and more on the Minnesota Sons of the American Legion Detachment Website. GO TO FORMS Submit your Event to be listed on our website. Do you have ideas to add to the website? Contact the Webmaster ! MN Third District Sons of the American Legion Sons of the Legion District Events Find a Squad Officers Join the SAL Squad Resources 2025 Membership Report District Website Event Ideas for SAL Forms Using Social Media Programs We Support Disabled Vets Deer Hunt Legionville Safety Camp MN Boys State TAL Child Welfare Foundation Created by Legion Social

The American Legion MN Thundering Third District provides information on joining the Sons of the American Legion. Find information on eligibility and joining on this page. Join Online Visit Legion.org to get started today. Renew Renew your membership at your Post or Online. Preamble Download the Preamble. Resources Find resources for you, your family, or your Post. SAL Membership To join you must be the male descendant (including stepsons & adopted sons) of a current member of The American Legion; a veteran who served from 12/7/1941 to today; a veteran who died after his or her honorable discharge from any service from 12/7/1941 to today. Don't worry, we can help you find out if you need help! Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Find resources and information on the annual American Legion Auxiliary Essay Contest. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security. Key Links MN ALA Website National Website Third District Social Media MN ALA National ALA For Veterans Third District ALA Facebook Get In Touch Committees Officers 2025 By Legion Social. Contact the Webmaster. Minnesota Third District Who We Are Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Programs/Committees Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Membership Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Upcoming Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Media Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Resources Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Key Links Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Menu Close 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.” Contest Forms

You will find Department, District, and National American Legion Events, Conventions, and Education opportunities on this page. District & Department Events & Conventions Sun, Nov 23 Veterans Community Outreach Event / Ridges at Sand Creek Golf Course Learn more Nov 23, 2025, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Sat, Dec 06 Pearl Harbor Rally / Buffalo American Legion Post 270 Learn more Dec 06, 2025, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sat, Mar 14 Appreciation Rally / Bloomington's Veterans Club Learn more Mar 14, 2026, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Thu, Jul 09 Department Convention / Willmar Conference Center Learn more Jul 09, 2026, 8:00 AM – Jul 11, 2026, 8:00 PM June 27, 2026 - Time TBD Commander's Testimonial / New Prague American Legion Post 45 Learn more June 27, 2026 - Time TBD Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Become a member of the Minnesota Third District Sons of the American Legion. You do not need to have served in order to become a member. Find out more. Sons of the Legion District Events Find a Squad Officers Join the SAL Squad Resources 2025 Membership Report District Website Event Ideas for SAL Forms Using Social Media Programs We Support Disabled Vets Deer Hunt Legionville Safety Camp MN Boys State TAL Child Welfare Foundation Menu Close Sons of the Legion District Events Find a Squad Officers Join the SAL Squad Resources 2025 Membership Report District Website Event Ideas for SAL Forms Using Social Media Programs We Support Disabled Vets Deer Hunt Legionville Safety Camp MN Boys State TAL Child Welfare Foundation The American Legion Post is the heart and soul of the local community serving veterans and their families. What we do Dedicated to supporting veterans, their families, and our community, we provide programs, events, and scholarships to make a difference in the lives of many. We sponsors several programs throughout our state, including the Disabled Veteran Deer Hunt , the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation , Legionville Safety Camp , and Minnesota Boys State . JOIN Who we are Founded in 1932, the Sons of The American Legion exists to honor the service and sacrifice of Legionnaires. SAL members include males of all ages whose parents or grandparents served in the U.S. military and were eligible for American Legion membership. Members of The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion comprise the Legion Family, which has a combined membership of nearly 3 million. JOIN Questions? Contact our Officers. Dave Arend SAL 3rd District Commander Email Lloyd Schaeffer SAL 3rd District Adjutant Email Dennis Bjork SAL 3rd District Membership Email Vice Commanders Contact the SAL 3rd District Vice Commanders Email Submit your Event to be listed on our website. Make a difference, become a member of the SAL. Find a squadron . MN Third District Sons of the American Legion Sons of the Legion District Events Find a Squad Officers Join the SAL Squad Resources 2025 Membership Report District Website Event Ideas for SAL Forms Using Social Media Programs We Support Disabled Vets Deer Hunt Legionville Safety Camp MN Boys State TAL Child Welfare Foundation Created by Legion Social Find a Squadron Find a list of squadrons in the Minnesota Thundering Third District. There are 38 to choose from. Get in touch with their squad to learn more or attend a meeting. Find a Squad Who can join To be eligible, you must be one of the following: The male descendant (includes stepsons and adopted sons) of a current member of The American Legion. The male descendant (stepsons and adopted sons included) of a veteran who served during World War I, or any period from December 7, 1941 to Today. JOIN

Welcome to the American Legion MN Thundering Third District, dedicated to supporting veterans, fostering patriotism, and serving our community. Explore our programs, events, and services designed to empower veterans and promote civic engagement. Join us in making a positive impact today. AMERICAN LEGION THUNDERING THIRD DISTRICT 10 Counties and 64 Posts Strong! We are Veterans Strengthening America The Minnesota Thundering Third District encompasses 10 Counties is 64 posts strong! Together we promote and uphold the mission and four pillars of the American Legion. We support Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth. Learn More How can we serve you? The District Website is designed to effectively communicate information to the Posts within our district and provide resources and education for the general public on the programs and mission of the American Legion. Membership Find out how you can become a member of the American Legion or renew your membership. Find a Post Find a Post in your area by using our interactive Map or searching by County. Events Check out our full Calendar of District, Department, and National Events. Programs Learn about the Programs The American Legion Family supports for our youth. We are Better Together and Stronger Together. Stay up to date or learn about becoming an Auxiliary or SAL (Sons of The American Legion) Member. There are units in squads in all of our 10 counties! Upcoming Events Veterans Community Outreach Event Sun, Nov 23 Ridges at Sand Creek Golf Course Learn more Pearl Harbor Rally Sat, Dec 06 Buffalo American Legion Post 270 Learn more Appreciation Rally Sat, Mar 14 Bloomington's Veterans Club Learn more Load More Submit your Event to be listed on our website. Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country. 24/7 Confidential Support for Veterans & their loved ones.

Find your County Veteran Service Officer on this page. Contact the MN Thundering Third District for further support. Veteran Service Officers Find your County VSO Visit the VSO Website and select your County, or click the links below that go directly to your Current County Officers. VSO Directory Third District Counties Carver County Dakota County Goodhue County Le Sueur County McLeod County Nicollet County Rice County Scott County Sibley County Washington County Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Learn about our commitment to supporting veterans, promoting patriotism, and fostering community service. See how our goals and values drive our efforts to make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve. " There is nothing nobler than risking your life for your country. " Mission The mission of the American Legion Minnesota Third District is to support veterans, their families, and our communities through dedicated service, advocacy, and programs that uphold the values of patriotism, honor, and sacrifice. We strive to provide resources, assistance, and a sense of belonging to those who have served our nation, ensuring their contributions are recognized and their needs are met. Find A 3rd District Post 4 Pillars In 1919, The American Legion was founded on four pillars: Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth. Each of these pillars encompasses a variety of programs that benefit our nation's veterans, its servicemembers, their families, the youth of America and ordinary citizens. Vision Our vision is to create a united and thriving community where veterans are respected, empowered, and supported. We aim to be a leading advocate for veterans’ rights and well-being, fostering a network of camaraderie and mutual support. By engaging in meaningful initiatives and promoting civic responsibility, we envision a future where every veteran in the Third District experiences the honor and gratitude they deserve.

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