The value of a post service officer increases with length of service. As the service officer’s reputation grows,
so will the value of the organization in the veteran community. The job requires a competent, dedicated
and organized person, preferably one is readily available to provide assistance. The post service officer is
responsible for bringing awareness to all veterans and their dependents the rights and benefits granted
them by law.
The post service officer also must know how to access and utilize the expert services available through
The American Legion, state and federal government agencies, and local community agencies. The job
requires timely submission of information to full-time professionals so veterans and their dependents are
adequately represented. The service officer’s report should be a standard part of every meeting.
The American Legion maintains a full staff of appeals representatives in the Washington, D.C., and
indianapolis headquarters offices. A small mobile staff of field representatives provides a constant flow of
information concerning conditions in VA hospitals, domiciles and regional offices. Other American Legion
representatives assist veterans who petition DoD boards for review of less than fully honorable discharges
or dismissal from the military. They also assist veterans in obtaining deserved decorations and medals.
Department service officers are certified and can provide necessary claims forms. Additional information
comes through department publications, National Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation bulletins,
memorandums and VA pamphlets. Many departments conduct training for post service officers to gain
knowledge and contacts, and all have trained and certified service officers in VA regional offices and
hospitals.
With most of today’s veteran population composed of those who served during the Vietnam War era and
after, the work of the post service officer continues to be vital. These former servicemembers are likely to

not be fully versed in veterans benefits and programs. Meanwhile, older veterans need advice on how to
integrate possible benefits into their retirement plans. Dependents should be contacted as soon as feasible
after a veteran’s death.
Every Congress considers legislative matters of importance to veterans and to The American Legion.
Working in cooperation with the post legislative committee, the post service officer can aid the national
organization’s legislative efforts.