1939: Let’s start with our charter…
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
The required number of persons duly qualified for membership having applied therefor and such application having been approved in due form.
Now therefore, pursuant to the powers conferred by the Constitution of The American Legion, this Charter is granted and those applying together with such others as may unite with them, are hereby authorized to establish and maintain a Squadron of
THE SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION
at Reisterstown, to be attached to Reisterstown Post No. 116, Department of Maryland, and this instrument, unless revoked or suspended, shall be conclusive evidence of the lawful existence thereof.
By the acceptance of this Charter, the said Squadron acknowledges irrevocable jurisdiction and declares itself to be in all things subject to the Constitutions of The Sons of the American Legion and of the Department of Maryland, and the rules, regulations, orders and laws promulgated in pursuance thereof; and further the said Squadron pledges itself, through its members, to uphold, protect and defend the Constitution of The United States and the principles of true Americanism, for the common welfare of the living and in solemn commemoration of those who died that liberty might not perish from the Earth.
In Witness Thereof, this charter is given under the hand and seal of the National Commander, duly attested by the National Adjutant, at Headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana, this 1st day of December, 1939; and countersigned by the Commander and the Adjutant for the Department of Maryland, at Baltimore the <blank> day of <blank>, <blank>.
Countersigned:
James D. Fitzguard (Department Commander)
J. Nelson Gibby ( Department Adjutant )
Attest:
Raymond J. Kelly (National Commander)
Frank E. Samuel (National Adjutant)