Legion of Valor of the United States of America facts for kids
Emblem
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| Formation | April 23, 1890 |
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| Founded at | Washington, D.C. |
| Type | 501(c)(19), war veterans' organization |
| Legal status | Federally chartered corporation |
| Headquarters | Fairfax, Virginia |
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Official language
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English |
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National Commander
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Justin Lehew |
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National Adjutant
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Donald Marx |
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Formerly called
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Army and Navy Legion of Valor of the United States of America |
The Legion of Valor of the United States of America, often called the Legion of Valor, is a special group for military veterans. It was created to encourage love for the country and loyalty to the U.S. Constitution. This group also supports important freedoms and lasting democratic ideas.
To join the Legion of Valor, a person must have received one of the highest military awards. These awards include the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Navy Cross, or the Air Force Cross.
Contents
How the Legion of Valor Started
In 1890, a group called the Medal of Honor Legion was formed. This group was created by soldiers who had received the Medal of Honor during the Civil War and the Indian Wars.
Protecting the Medal of Honor
By the late 1800s, many Civil War veterans wanted their bravery recognized. The Medal of Honor had been created in 1862. At the same time, other veteran groups began giving out awards that looked like the Medal of Honor. Also, many people were pretending to be war heroes.
Because of this, the Medal of Honor Legion was formed. Its main goal was to protect the honor of the Medal of Honor. They worked to create an official list of all recipients. They also investigated people who claimed to have received the award. This helped expose fake heroes and correct any mistakes in giving out awards.
Expanding Membership Over Time
After the Spanish–American War, the group welcomed new members. These were Medal of Honor recipients from that war and the Philippine–American War.
In 1910, some members left to form a new group. This happened because of a disagreement about who could join. The new group was called the Military Order of the Medal of Honor.
After World War I ended in 1918, the Medal of Honor Legion grew again. They started allowing military members who had received the Distinguished Service Cross to join.
In 1933, membership expanded even more. Recipients of the Navy Cross could now join. At this time, the group's name changed to The Army and Navy Legion of Valor.
Later, in the late 1940s, a new group became active. It was the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. This group was officially recognized by the government in 1958.
When the Air Force Cross was created in 1961, its recipients could also join. This led to the group's name changing one last time to the Legion of Valor of the United States of America.
How the Legion of Valor is Run
The Legion of Valor is managed by elected leaders. These include a national commander and two vice commanders. There is also a board of directors. Former national commanders stay on the board for life.
Annual Meetings
The Legion of Valor holds a meeting every year. During this meeting, the board of directors meets. They also elect new leaders and review their rules.
Special Programs
The Legion of Valor has several programs to recognize achievement and heroism.
Silver Cross for Heroism
In 1957, the Legion of Valor created the Silver Cross. This award recognizes brave actions that save or protect lives. Since 1989, people who receive the Silver Cross can become associate members of the Legion of Valor.
Bronze Cross for Achievement
The Bronze Cross for Achievement started in 1951. This award is given to cadets from the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC). It honors young people who show great skill in military, school, and community activities.
Legion of Valor Museum
In August 1991, the Legion of Valor opened its own museum. It is called the Legion of Valor Veterans Museum. The museum is located in Fresno, California. It displays military items, old artifacts, photos, and official award documents.
