Legion Year 2026 Membership Update

We made it — 101.04%!

American Legion Post 171 now has 291 paid members, exceeding our membership goal by 3 members. Thanks to everyone who renewed their 2026 membership. Post 171 is currently:

• 1st in the District
• 19th in the State

If you still have a 2025 membership card, please note it expired on December 31, 2025. You can still renew your 2026 membership at any time.

Renewal Options

By Mail

Send your $40.00 check or money order payable to:

American Legion Post 171
P.O. Box 171
Damascus, MD 20872

You may use the return envelope provided by National Headquarters.

Online Renewal

To renew online:

1. Visit Legion.org
2. Click “Renew Your Membership”
3. Enter your Membership ID Number and payment information

If you cannot locate your Membership ID Number, contact Sam Baughman using the information below.

Membership Assistance Fund

Post 171 maintains a confidential Membership Fund for members experiencing health or financial difficulties who may need assistance renewing their membership.

Questions?

Sam Baughman
Membership Chairman
Email: racecarman0711@comcast.net
Text/Phone: (301) 401-6479

Why Join Post 171

• Connect with fellow veterans and community members
• Support programs that serve veterans, youth, and families
• Participate in events, volunteer efforts, and local initiatives
• Continue a legacy of service beyond military life

Who Is Eligible

Membership in the American Legion is open to veterans who served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces.

If you are unsure whether you qualify, our Post is happy to help review your eligibility.

• Veterans who served honorably
• Current or former members of the U.S. Armed Forces who meet eligibility requirements
• Family members are eligible to join related American Legion programs – Sons of the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, and American Legion Riders

How To Join

Joining American Legion Post 171 is straightforward, and our officers are available to guide you through each step.

• Confirm your eligibility
• Complete a membership application
• Provide proof of service or eligibility
• Submit your application with annual dues
• Attend a meeting or visit the Post to get connected

Transferring from another Post

In accordance with the Post Adjutant’s Manual, membership transfer from one post to another is handled by completing the Member Data Form. The right to transfer does not include the right to be accepted by any post. Members still must vote upon acceptance of the applicant. Being the member of more than one post at a time is in violation of the American Legion Constitution. Formal transfer is the only method of transferring from one post to another so continuity of Legion membership is not broken, and it is available to members in good standing.

Please complete the form below and forward it to Sam Baughman, Membership Chairman, at racecarman0711@comcast.net for consideration at the next available full Membership meeting.

Questions About Membership?

We’re here to help. Contact American Legion Post 171 or visit during one of our meetings to speak with an officer in person.

Prospective members and guests are always welcome.