The chaplain need not necessarily be a clergyman, but must be a person capable of moral and intellectual
leadership and one who gives dignity and respect to the office. The chaplain should be in close touch with
the commander and other post officers, and should attend all meetings of the post executive committee.
The leadership in many post activities belongs by right to the chaplain, and when this office is filled by the
right person, the post’s usefulness to the community greatly increases.
The Manual of Ceremonies gives an important place to the chaplain in the conduct of
meetings, the observance of patriotic occasions, funeral services and dedication ceremonies. At all these
events, the chaplain is the moral leader.
The chaplain should work with the post historian on grave registration work and inspire the post to
decorate veteran graves, especially on Memorial Day. Besides officiating at post members’ funerals when
requested, the chaplain can serve their bereaved families. The chaplain may also chair the post’s Veterans
Administration Voluntary Services (VAVS) Committee, which coordinates volunteer work at nearby VA
facilities. The American Legion Chaplain’s Handbook, available online and through department headquarters,
offers guidance for the post chaplain and religious emphasis committee.