If you’re a veteran seeking camaraderie, support, and meaningful ways to stay engaged, American Legion Post 143 in Post Falls offers a vibrant community. With over 700 members, this post delivers programs, services, and social events that make it a cornerstone for veterans and their families.
1. Become a Proud Member
Eligibility requires honorable military service; membership costs $35 per year . As a member, enjoy exclusive benefits, resident voting rights, and access to veteran-only areas like the lounge.
2. Volunteer Locally
You don’t need to be a member to help. Opportunities include supporting events, Honor Guard duties, the “Be The One” suicide-prevention program, and outreach initiatives like Veteran Stand Down.
3. Join Affiliated Groups
Post 143 hosts several volunteer branches:
- Sons of the American Legion: for male descendants of veterans
- American Legion Auxiliary: for female relatives
- Quilts of Valor, Honor Guard, Guitars 4 Vets—offering healing, ceremony, and camaraderie
4. Attend Community & Social Events
Activities for all include Steak Nights, Taco Wednesdays, and Open Grill Fridays, drawing both veterans and locals.
5. Support Youth Programs
Strengthen future leadership through:
- Legion Baseball (Prairie Cardinals teams)
- Oratorical contests with scholarships ($500‑$25,000)
- Boys & Girls State/Nation
- Scouts Troop 143 mentoring young men aged 11–17
6. Use Veteran Services
Free expert support, including VA claims assistance, mental health resources, housing aid, and career guidance, is available through accredited service officers.
7. Honor Ceremonies with the Honor Guard
Join the Honor Guard to perform flag ceremonies and military funerals. Members wear dress uniforms and receive training for dignified services .
8. Enjoy the Dining & Lounge Areas
Every week, the post opens its dining room for community meals and the members‑only lounge for veterans—great spaces to socialize and relax .
9. Attend Monthly Meetings
Stay informed by attending the general membership and auxiliary meetings, typically held on Mondays at 6:30 pm .
10. Donate & Sponsor Initiatives
Not ready to join? You can still donate to support:
- Youth scholarships
- Emergency aid for veterans
- Quilts of Valor and community events like Veteran Stand Down
At-a-Glance Table
| Opportunity | Who Can Join | Frequency / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Membership | Veterans & Active Duty | $35/year, includes lounge access |
| Volunteer | Everyone | Ongoing events, Stand Down, suicide prevention |
| Affiliated Groups | Relatives & Veterans | SAL, Auxiliary, Honor Guard, Quilts, G4V |
| Social Events | All | Weekly BBQs, taco nights, community meat & grill |
| Youth Programs | Youth + Mentors | Baseball, Oratorical, Scouting, Boys/Girls State |
| Veteran Services | Veterans | VA support, mental health, job assistance |
| Honor Guard | Veterans | Ceremonial duties, burials |
| Dining & Lounge | Members & Community | Members-only lounge; community dining |
| Monthly Meetings | Members + Family | Mondays, 6:30 pm |
| Donation & Sponsorship | All | Fund scholarships, events, and programs |
From membership and volunteer activities to youth mentorship, Honor Guard, and veteran services, American Legion Post 143 offers 10 meaningful paths for veterans and community members to connect and serve.
Whether you’re seeking fellowship, giving back, or advancing veteran causes, Post 143 is a cornerstone for North Idaho veterans and families.
FAQs
Who can volunteer at Post 143?
Everyone—no military service required. Volunteers help at events, with Honor Guard, and veteran resource programs.
What benefits does a $35 membership include?
Veterans receive access to the members‑only lounge, voting rights, VA support, discounted events, and community connection.
How can youth participate?
Through Baseball teams, Oratorical contests (up to $25,000 scholarships), Scouts, and Boys/Girls State/Nation programs .