Origins of the American Legion Movement

In the aftermath of World War I, discussions swept across the United States about forming a national organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. Linglestown, a small community in Pennsylvania, was no exception. Even before the official end of the war, residents engaged in conversations about creating a post-war veterans' group that would serve their needs and honor their service.

Establishing the Linglestown Legion Post

These early Linglestown conversations culminated in a pivotal moment on August 27, 1919, when a group of dedicated patriots applied for a temporary American Legion Charter. In just twelve days, their efforts were rewarded with the issuance of this charter. A permanent charter followed swiftly, granted on October 24, 1919. The newly formed organization became known as the Linglestown American Legion Post 272, boasting fifteen charter members.

Honoring Robert H. Hoke

On February 7, 1922, the Post was renamed in memory of Robert H. Hoke—the first man from Linglestown to lose his life in World War I. From then on, the organization carried the name Robert H. Hoke American Legion Post 272, ensuring that his sacrifice and the service of all local veterans would not be forgotten.

The Growth of Auxiliary Organizations

The spirit of community involvement continued to flourish. In 1924, a Ladies' Auxiliary to Post 272 was established with eighteen charter members. Notably, Linglestown was the smallest Pennsylvania community at the time to support both an American Legion Post and a Ladies' Auxiliary. The tradition of service extended further: a Junior Auxiliary was organized in 1954, followed by the creation of a Sons of the American Legion Squadron in 1958.

Patriotic Days

MEMORIAL DAY has always been an important occasion in this community. The goal of every Veteran is to keep MEMORIAL DAY sacred to the memory of our war dead of all of the wars of the country; and all graves are decorated on this National Holiday. Annually the Post sponsors the Memorial Day Parade.

Memorial Flags for Graves of Vets

Since it's inception American Legion Post 272 has been a leader in the area of placing Flags on the graves of our Veterans. The placing of Grave Flags enables all interested parties to locate the sites of the graves of our Veterans. American Legion Post 272 is proud of our service work in this important endeavor. Each year, active members of Post 272 place a flag on each Veteran's grave in our local cemetaries.

Scholarships and Community Projects

American LegionPost 272 sponsors various scholarships for the further education of our children. We also sponsor and financially assist many worthy community projects and programs initiated by the National American Legion.

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