On May 19, 1967, John Jackson Sparkman (D-AL) introduced a bill in the Senate that called "for the striking of medals in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the American Legion." Upon its introduction, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Banking and Currency.
Three days later, John William Wright Patman (D-TX) introduced a companion bill in the House of Representatives; it was referred to the House Committee on Banking and Currency. The House bill moved forward, while the Senate bill was never reported out of Committee.
The bills called for the striking of one million medals to be delivered to the American Legion, in quantities as requested, but in minimum quantities of 2,000 per order.
The House Committee reported the bill in October 1967; it did so with a favorable opinion and a recommendation to pass without amendment. The bill was called up for consideration in the House shortly after the Report was issued.
Representative Patman rose in support of his bill, stating:
"I am sure the House of Representatives will want to support this bill unanimously as a means of expressing our admiration for the gallant men who founded the American Legion, and for the millions of American servicemen and servicewomen who have joined this outstanding organization and contributed to its tremendous effectiveness.
"The American Legion, the largest organization of veterans of our armed services, was founded in Paris, France, March 15-17, 1919. It has grown to a membership of 2,600,000 in 16,500 posts in this country and abroad.
"Born in the crucible of war but dedicated to peace, the American Legion has been an integral part of the fabric of American life throughout most of the 20th century. From the beginning its objectives have included the strengthening of our way of life, maintenance of the national security, care for the children of America, and aid to those who have fallen in battle and to their widows and orphans."Patman continued extolling the virtues of the organization and summarizing some of its historical and current activities. He concluded his remarks with:
"As plans go forward to celebrate its 50th anniversary the American Legion continues as a strong, vigilant, and responsible organization of patriotic Americans dedicated to maintenance of law and order and service to the community, State, and Nation, an organization which has contributed immeasurably to the advance of freedom."(Note: In 2024, the American legion claims a membership of "nearly 2 million" and over 12,000 posts. Both numbers are down from what Patman reported in 1967.The House moved quickly after Patman concluded his statement, passing the bill without further discussion or objection. The bill was sent to the Senate where it was referred to the Senate Committee on Banking and Currency. The Committee mirrored the House Committee, and reported the bill favorably with a recommendation to pass; the Senate passed the bill without objection.
The passed bill was examined and signed in each chamber, then presented to the President for approval. US President Lyndon Baines Johnson signed the bill into law on November 4, 1967.
The story continues here: What If? 1969 American Legion 50th Anniversary - Part II / The Medal
Posted 10/14/2024 10:37 am
