Emblem Use

Emblem Use and Copyright Information

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The possession of these emblems in this format does not constitute permission to reproduce them. Permission to reproduce the emblems of The American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion is confined to those activities as listed in the current Post Officers Guide which is quoted below:

"The American Legion emblem is fully copyrighted and patented in the name of the National Organization. The emblem is also protected by federal legislation which makes it a criminal offense to use, without formal approval of the National Organization, the patented insignia of any veterans' group chartered by Congress, one of which is The American Legion."

The use of the emblem by an individual Legionnaire is limited to the wearing of the official insignia and to the possession of authorized jewelry or merchandise bearing the insignia. Posts are confined to using the emblem or reproduction of the emblem on stationery, post publications, notices, posters or placecards, or matters of similar character used in the ordinary routine and conduct of legitimate post business. Departments are similarly limited. Any other use of the name "The American Legion" or the emblem shall be subject to the approval of the National Adjutant."

The above restrictions apply equally to the emblems of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion.

Emblem Use F.A.Q.'s

Click on question to expand and collapse corresponding answer

1. Why do I need permission to use The American Legion Name or Emblem?
The Name and Emblem of The American Legion are registered service marks in the U. S. Trademark Office and are protected by criminal and civil enforcement provisions of federal law (18 USC S705 and 36 USC SS44 & SS48). However, by authority of National Executive Committee May 1947 Resolution Number 71, the National Organization may grant permission to use the name and emblem in accordance with that resolution, other resolutions and U. S. Trademark law.

2. When do I need permission to use The American Legion Name or Emblem?
The use of The American Legion Name or Emblem is confined to stationary, publications, notices, posters or similar correspondence items for official Legion business only. An application for permission needs to be submitted for any other merchandise intended to bear the name or emblem of The American Legion.

3. Who has the right to give permission to use The American Legion Name or Emblem?
The National Adjutant or his appointed representative, The National Emblem Sales Director, has the sole right to grant permission on behalf of The National Executive Committee. No Post, County, District, State or other unit of The American Legion, and no officer or member thereof, has authority to grant the right to manufacture, reproduce or deal in items bearing the name and/or emblem of The American Legion.

4. What criteria need to be met for permission to be granted?
The design of all products must clearly identify the Post, District, or Department number and/or name.

5. How do I apply for permission to use The American Legion Name or Emblem?
You may download the form by clicking here (If you don't have Microsoft Word, download the word reader to view the file). This form must contain all of the information sought. Missing information will delay any action on the request.

6. Where do I send the completed form?
In order for permission to be granted, your request must be submitted to your Department Adjutant for approval. Once approved, your Department Adjutant will forward your request to National Headquarters for final review.

7. How will I know if my request was approved or denied?
A letter of permission or denial will be mailed to the manufacturer as well as to the member making the request.

8. How long does this process take?
Once your Department Adjutant approves the request and it is received by National Headquarters, a response will be available within one business day.

9. What if I would like to re-order an item from my manufacturer?
Any permission given will be granted on a one-time basis for a given quantity. Additional orders will require new authority, and the manufacturer must not produce more items than that being ordered.

10. Where can I obtain approved Legion Emblem artwork files?
Please provide an e-mail address with your request and artwork will be provided once permission is granted.

11. Are there any pre-approved licensed manufacturers where I can submit my order?
The manufacturers that are licensed to use The American Legion Name and/or Emblem can be found on the Emblem Sales web site

Additional Questions?

If you need more information, questions may be directed to The American Legion National Headquarters, Emblem Sales.

Toll Free: 1-866-632-7131
Fax: 317-630-1381
E-mail: Contact the Special Orders staff