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The VA can be difficult to navigate. The MN Thundering Third District Website offers a list of direct links to help get you right where you need to be. Find help on this page. VA Websites Stay your course! Below are web-sites that provide information on Veterans benefits and how to file or ask for them. Accordingly, there are many sites that explain how to obtain books, military/medical records, information and how to appeal a denied claim with the VA. Nearly 100% of this information is free and available for all veterans, the only catch is: YOU HAVE TO ASK FOR IT! They won't tell you about a specific benefit unless you ask. You need to know what questions to ask so the right doors open for you and then be ready to have an advocate who is willing to work with and for you, stay in the process, and press for your rights and your best interests. VA Website Links Appeals www.va.gov/decision-reviews Board of Veteran's Appeals: www.bva.va.gov Center for Minority Veterans: www.va.gov/centerforminorityveterans/ Center for Veterans Enterprise: www.vetbiz.va.gov/ Center for Women Veterans: www.va.gov/womenvet/ Compensation Rate Tables: www.va.gov/rac-gwvi/ Department of Veteran Affairs: www.va.gov/ Gulf War Veterans: www.benefits.va.gov/persona/veteran-gulfwar.asp Gulf War Veterans Illnesses: www.va.gov/rac-gwvi/ Department of Veterans Service Organizations: www.va.gov/ogc/recognizedvsos.asp Disability Examination Worksheets: benefits.va.gov/compensation/ Due Process: www.benefits.va.gov/WARMS/docs/ Duty to Assist www.va.gov/resources/vas-duty-to-assist/ Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Join the Department of Minnesota American Legion Riders at the Annual Pearl Harbor Rally. Find out more and how to register. Pearl Harbor Rally What: The American Legion Pearl Harbor Family Gathering-Rally When: 6 December 2025 Where: Post 270, Buffalo MN Who: MN American Legion Riders Social hour and membership turn-in: 11:00 a.m. Lunch served Cost: $20.00 Registration by postal mail to: The Minnesota American Legion Riders organize the Pearl Harbor Rally, an event for all members of the Minnesota American Legion Family. Lodging: The Budget Host Inn is right across the street from Post 270. Its phone number is 763-682-5930. Click here to visit its website . More Info 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. 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 Membership Application Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Application Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Programs Upcoming Events Appreciation Luncheon Unit Events Appreciation Luncheon Unit Events Media Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Resources 2026 Standing Rules Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List 2026 Standing Rules 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

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Register for The American Legion Third District of Minnesota Convention and access the latest documents, resolutions, and recommendations. Third District Convention May 15 - 16, 2026 Join fellow Legionnaires, veterans, and guests for the 3rd District Convention hosted by Charles Borak American Legion Post #45. This gathering focuses on practical ways we support veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. Register here to help shape our district’s work, share ideas, and connect with others committed to service, patriotism, and community. Your participation helps guide local programs, community outreach, and support for those who served. REGISTER Documents Convention Handout Recommendations 1-3 for Standing Rules Recommendations 4-7 for Standing Rules Convention Rules 3rd District Standing Rules Resolutions 1-4 for Standing Rule Changes Resolutions 5-8 for Standing Rule Changes Resolution 9 for Standing Rule Changes 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 Membership Application Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Application Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Programs Upcoming Events Appreciation Luncheon Unit Events Appreciation Luncheon Unit Events Media Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Resources 2026 Standing Rules Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List 2026 Standing Rules 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

You will find Department, District, and National American Legion Events, Conventions, and Education opportunities on this page. District & Department Events & Conventions Multiple Dates Fri, Sep 11 Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum Grand Opening / 21702 Haven Rd Learn more Sep 11, 2026, 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM Sun, Sep 27 Hero's Hub Grand Opening / New Prague Park Ballroom Learn more Sep 27, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM At The New Prague American Legion Park Ballroom Sun, Nov 08 Auxiliary Past President's Appreciation Luncheon / Morristown American Legion Learn more Nov 08, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Numerous organizations exist to aid Veterans and their families with financial assistance. Find links and information on the Hastings Legion website to get the help you deserve. Federal Government Resources for Veterans & Their Families Branches of the Federal Government: The Executive Branch: www.whitehouse.gov The Legislative Branch: www.senate.gov The U.S. House of Representatives: www.house.gov Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country. Veterans' Programs & Services: The United State Supreme Court: www.uscourts.gov Department of Veterans Affairs: www.va.gov Disabled American Veterans: www.dav.org Military Branches The Pentagon: www.defense.gov The United States Army: www.army.mil The United States Navy: www.navy.mil The United States Marine Corps: www.usmc.mil The United States Coast Guard: www.uscg.mil The United States Air Force: www.af.mil The American Merchant Marines: www.usmm.org Military Academies United States Military Academy: www.usma.edu United States Naval Academy: www.nadn.nav.mil United States Merchant Marine Academy: www.usmma.edu United States Cost Guard Academy: www.cga.edu United States Air Force Academy: www.usafa.af.mil United States Air Force ROTC: www.ufoats.af.mil General Resources Federal Executive Branch: www.loc.gov/global/executive/fed Federal Judiciary Branch Resources: www.uscourts.gov Memorial & Tribute Resources Korean War Veterans Memorial: www.nps.gov/kowa Vietnam Veterans Memorial: www.nps.gov/vive National World War II Memorial: www.wwIImemorial.com Memorial Museum Association: www.nps.gov/usar U.S. Air Force Museum: www.nationalmuseum.af.mil Arlington National Cemetery: www.arlingtoncemetery.org American Memorial Park: www.nps.gov/amme Societies Congressional Medal of Honor Society: www.cmohs.org

Join the Third District American Legion of Minnesota today. Learn about membership benefits and how you can support veterans in our community. 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 . Questions? Stop in, email, or call any Post of your choosing or visit Legion.Org for more information. Legion Membership Application SAL Membership Application Auxiliary Membership Application Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Learn about Linda Dvorak's project as Department of Minnesota American Legion's current commander. Find links and a QR code. Help Commander Linda Dvorak reach her goals: Her Commander's Project raises funds for the Minnesota Veterans Assistance Fund (Fund 85) and benches and pillars for the new Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum at Camp Ripley. Out of the funds raise, 75% goes to Fund 85 and 25% to the museum. The Department Commander's Project each year is classified as Fund 82 under the Minnesota American Legion Foundation. The foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization and can accept gambling funds. Learn More EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE Minnesota Department of American Legion Commander's Project

Find event ideas for your Sons of the American Legion Squadron. 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 A List of Event Ideas for your Squadron Submit your Event to be listed on our website. Annual Events Hosting events at the same time each year helps ensure growth. It also empowers you to start advertising long in advance. Here's a short list of ideas for your squadron to try: Chili, Casserole or Soup Cook-Off Veteran's Day Breakfast (charge for non-Veterans) Breakfast with Santa Event Christmas Toy Drive or Drop Turkey & Ham Meat Raffle Turkey Bingo Golf Tournament Breakfast, Bingo & Bloody Mary's Bean Bag Tournament Membership Drive (party) Rib Cook-Off Dunk Tank & Grill Out Party Send us your Ideas Here's a few more ideas Contact local Boys Scout clubs, invite them to have meetings at your Post Invite school teams to volunteer at large events, take the opportunity to educate them on the importance of honoring & supporting Veterans Sell Raffle Tickets for large ticket items or cash Organize Benefits for members of your Legion Family who have fallen ill Gun Raffles Work with your local Golf Course, see if you can create a partnership to sell Golf Memberships and get a cut of the proceeds for your Unit Follow other Legions on Social Media and find out what they are doing Send us your Ideas 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 the latest tips & tricks to beef up your Social Media game and start spreading the events and great works of your Sons of the American Legion squadron. 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 Submit your Event to be listed on our website. Facebook Tips & FAQ's Pages vs. Groups Facebook is one of the most powerful online tools to reach people and promote your events & membership. Does this mean you need to have a Facebook Page? What about a Facebook group? Here are out thoughts on the matter... Page vs. Group: Pages are public, Groups need to be joined. Knowing what your looking to accomplish is the key. Use GROUPS for communicating amongst your members and coordinating volunteer needs, etc. Create a PAGE if you want to actively involve the public and invite them to your events, meetings, and activities. Creating Events It is essential that you create an event on Facebook for each of your activities. Using events has built in automations that do things like: Alert followers or people in your area that "Legion XYZ created an event you might like" Allows followers to click interested or going to your event, which sends them auto-alerts as the date draws near Allows you to add Co-Hosts of the event, which can increase the reach dramatically! Creating a Facebook event is pretty simple, but here's a quick run down on the steps to take: Login and Click Events Click Create an Event Enter your information, location, time and ALL the details you have about the event (menu, schedule, tickets, etc.) Upload a graphic that looks really nice and eye catching (when possible, ensure it is not a photo taken of an event flyer) Invite your followers to the event (sometimes FB will only allow you to invite 50 at a time, so come back often until you've invited everyone) Add a Co-Host if there is one (please note you need to first Follow the Host on Facebook to add them to the event) Regularly post in the "Discussion" section of your event to get people excited. Use pictures of items, food, people, and talk about what will be at the event Send Those Invites! When you log into your Facebook page, click on the left-hand side to go into the Meta Business Suite. Scroll to the "Grow Your Audience" section. Click on the Send Invites button and Select to Send all invites. View Example How does this help? Well, for example, let's say one of your patrons shared your post about the upcoming Fish Fry. Her friend Sally liked the post and came to the fish fry. Now she gets an invite from you to follow/like your page and she does because she really enjoyed the fish and wants to know when it's happening again. Join Community Bulletin Boards & Groups Nearly every community has at least 1 Facebook bulletin board. Make sure to join as many as possible AND search out Legion specific groups or those related to regular activities (such as karaoke, bingo, fish fry, etc.) Tips for Posting on Boards You can share to your page and up to 3 groups at once using the Meta Business Suite (see example video ) Be mindful, don't over post. Once or Twice a week is definitely plenty. Plus, some boards have rules on business Posting (make sure to read the group rules) Add bolded text by Sharing from your event. This feature is only available when you click Share to Group (see example video ) Sharing the event you created to a group is more effective than just a graphic and text. Why? It allows people to click "interested" or "going" which means they get those automated reminders. Post Stories & Reels Stories are a quick way to be seen as they show up right at the top of the Facebook Feed. Use large text and minimal information in your graphics and add your link to the event or to your Facebook page for more info. Reels are a bit more challenging as they require videos. Videos can only be 60 seconds long. We recommend using actual footage from your event, during set up, etc. A strong example of how to use a Reel: Take a quick video of your silent auction items and post as a reel so people can see the fun items available! Adding music can also make all the difference! Follow your fellow Legion Family Posts! The more followers a page has, the more people see your content. Do your part to follow other American Legions. Make sure to: Follow the National, Department, and District Pages Search for Legions and Auxiliary Units in your state (and out of state) and follow them (you may even get some new ideas) 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