Find the latest Book of Annual Reports for the Minnesota Third District American Legion Auxiliary. Annual Reports Find the Book of Annual Reports for each year here. 2025-2026 Book of Annual Reports 2024-2025 Book of Annual Reports 2023-2024 Book of Annual Reports 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

The MN Thundering Third District American Legion provides resources and links to aid Veterans in housing, PTSD, and Health and Wellness. Find information on this page. Resources Find the resources & support for veterans and your Auxiliary Unit or SAL squadron. Find resources by topic. What are you looking for? Federal Resources VSO Directory Veteran Solutions Veteran Organizations PTSD 24/7 Confidential Support for Veterans & their loved ones. Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country. Forms, materials, and more. Find ideas & resources for your Squad or Unit!

The MN Third District American Legion is a proud advocate and sponsor of the ALA Girls State program. Find out what Girls State is and how to register. "Girls State was an incredible experience. I learned so much about government and made friends I’ll never forget. It gave me the confidence to pursue a career in public service." What is ALA Girls State? The Minnesota Third District American Legion proudly sponsors the American Legion Girls State program, a premier educational experience for high school junior girls. This unique opportunity allows young women to learn about government, develop leadership skills, and engage in the civic process, all while forming lifelong friendships and connections. Girls State is a week-long summer program designed to immerse students in the workings of state and local government. Selected participants, known for their leadership, character, and academic excellence, create and run their own mock government. This hands-on experience teaches them the responsibilities of various elected and appointed officials. Participants in Girls State will: Engage in Hands-On Learning: Experience the legislative process by drafting, debating, and passing bills. Develop Leadership Skills: Take on roles such as governor, mayor, senator, and other positions, gaining firsthand experience in public service and leadership. Network with Peers: Meet other motivated and high-achieving young women from across the state, forming lifelong friendships and professional connections. Learn from Experts: Hear from guest speakers, including current government officials, veterans, and community leaders who share their experiences and insights. Build Confidence: Gain a deeper understanding of citizenship and the democratic process, empowering them to make a difference in their communities. Benefits include: College Credit: Many colleges and universities recognize the prestige of Girls State, offering college credit or scholarships to participants. Enhanced College Applications: Participation is a significant achievement that stands out on college applications, demonstrating a commitment to leadership and civic engagement. Lifelong Skills: The knowledge and skills gained during the program help students in their academic, professional, and personal lives. How to Apply Interested students should contact their high school guidance counselor or local American Legion post for application details. The selection process typically includes an application, an interview, and a review of academic and extracurricular achievements. Find a Post Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Meet the leaders of the Hastings American Legion. Our Officers page lists the dedicated individuals guiding our mission to support veterans and serve our community. Vice Commanders MN Third District American Legion TIM SWAN Post 96 Hutchinson MN 55350 timothyswan10@gmail.com 320-582-4712 NEIL HOADLEY Post 47 Hampton MN 55031 airrachet@gmail.com 651-703-6304 MARISSA LACOURT Post 54 Farmington MN 55024 marissa.lacourt@gmail.com 760-586-5136 WAYNE BEIERMAN Post 594 Eagan MN 55122 beierman66@gmail.com 651-497-0971 EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE

The well-being of our Veterans and their families is important to the MN Thundering Third District American Legion. Click to find resources to help you and your family navigate through difficult times. Veteran Solutions Resources for Veterans & Their Families US Government Made Easy LINK Veteran Loans LINK TriCare LINK Veteran Entrepreneurship LINK Social Security LINK List of Veteran Homes LINK Find the Assistance You Deserve Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Each year, the Sons of the American Legion Detachment of Minnesota is honored to sponsor the John Zgoda Disabled Veteran Deer Hunt held at Legionville Education Center near Brainerd, Minnesota. 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. John Zgoda Disabled Veteran Deer Hunt Each year, the Sons of the American Legion Detachment of Minnesota is honored to sponsor the John Zgoda Disabled Veteran Deer Hunt held at Legionville Education Center near Brainerd, Minnesota. Applications will be available online closer to the date! You may also contact one of the co-chairs for the Deer Hunt: Dave Vulcan (507) 380-5095 Dave Bilderback (507) 250-1057 Steve Bilderback (612) 220-1333 Chuck Stone (507) 213-7517 The SAL John Zgoda Memorial Deer Hunt is named after past Detachment of MN Commander John Zgoda, who envisioned the hunt for our disabled veterans in our state. Working with The American Legion, he sought out and finally got the permissions needed to do this hunt. The first hunt was held in 2007 and 4 disabled veterans participated. We now have up to 6 participants every year. The hunt is held in Late September/early October on the grounds of Legionville Education Center . It is run by volunteers from the American Legion Family who come together to provide a fun, safe, and unique experience for our participants. CONTACT US 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

The American Legion MN Thundering Third District is dedicated to the growth of Auxiliary. You'll find information about eligibility and how to join on this page. Join Online Visit Legion-Aux.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. Auxiliary Membership To join you must be a grandmother, mother, sister, spouse, or a direct or adopted female descendant of a Member of the American Legion, A man or woman who served between 4/6/1917 to 11/11/1918, or anytime after 12/7/1941 or of any man or woman who died after honorable discharge or in the line of duty after 12/7/1941 or the periods mentioned above. Don't worry, we can help you find out! Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Meet the leaders of the Hastings American Legion. Our Officers page lists the dedicated individuals guiding our mission to support veterans and serve our community. Our Leadership MN Third District American Legion Through strong leadership, we aim to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those who have served our country and the communities that support them. Meet our 2025-2026 Leadership! The Directory is below or you may Download the File if you prefer. Amy Larsen Commander Post 586 Lonsdale MN 55046 AmyLarsenLegion@gmail.com 612-306-4438 Nate Olson Adjutant Post 45 New Prague MN 56071 nocanby@gmail.com 612-804-6117 Joe Bares Membership Director Post 3 Jordan MN 55352 jebares@yahoo.com 952-686-3311 Barrett Kirchenwitz Finance Officer Post 594 Montrose MN 55363 bmk6712@yahoo.com 612-998-5033 DON PANKAKE Judge Advocate Post 96 Hutchinson MN 55350 pankake@hutchtel.net 612-280-7320 CINDY YANCHURY Chaplain Post 594 Eagan MN 55123 cindy.yanchury@gmail.com 651-261-1594 Ashley Venburg Historian Post 225 Forest Lake MN 55025 wsskat@gmail.com 651-283-2354 Neil Hoadley Sgt-at Arms Post 47 Hastings MN 55033 airrachet@gmail.com 651-703-6304 DAN LUDWIG Past National Commander Post 54 Red Wing MN 55066 dankludwig@gmail.com 651-253-9086 Joe Tappainer Past 3rd District Commander Post 1776 Apple Valley MN 55124 jtappainer@frontier.net 612-770-5124 Vice Commanders By Area MN Third District American Legion Mark Doble Area 1 Post 594 Eagan MN 55122 m.doble4@live.com 952-393-7609 James Entinger Area 2 Post 95 Glencoe MN 55336 jentinger@yahoo.com 920-328-7512 Wayne Beierman Area 3 Post 594 Eagan MN 55122 beierman66@gmail.com 651-497-0971 Kelly Ackerman Area 4 Post 84 Northfield MN kladelsman@gmail.com 507-273-0165 Marissa Lacourt Area 5 Post 1776 Farmington MN 55024 marissa.lacourt@gmail.com 760-586-5136 EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE

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 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

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

Third District American Legion of Minnesota Membership updates will be found on this page, including goals for each post and goal dates. Third District 2025 Membership Updates Membership Goals The Members of the American Legion help ensure the continuation of our organization. As many of you know, each year goals are set for the District and also each individual Post within the Thundering Third. Updates will be posted to this page, as well as the Latest News . DOWNLOAD The Goal Dates for 2025 are as follows. Please see the excel file above for more details: October 16, 2025 November 14, 2025 December 11, 2025 January 15, 2026 February 12, 2026 March 12, 2026 April 9, 2026 May 14, 2026 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