08/21/2026
To Our Ohio American Legion Family,
Our hearts are with every member of the American Legion Family and every Ohio community affected by the recent severe storms, heavy rainfall, and widespread flooding.
We recognize that many families may be facing flooded homes, damaged property, closed roads, power outages, evacuations, and the difficult task of cleaning up and rebuilding. Others may be worried about loved ones, temporarily displaced from their homes, or waiting to learn the full extent of the damage. During such an uncertain and overwhelming time, please know that you are not facing these challenges alone.
The American Legion Family is built upon service, compassion, and a commitment to caring for one another. We ask our posts and members throughout Ohio to check on fellow Legionnaires, veterans, and their families, especially those who are elderly, live alone, have limited transportation, or may need help finding temporary shelter, meals, clothing, or other essential resources. Even a phone call or a simple offer of assistance can provide comfort and reassurance during this difficult time.
To everyone whose home, property, livelihood, or community has been affected, we offer our deepest concern and unwavering support. We are thinking of the families who have been forced to leave their homes, the first responders and volunteers working in dangerous conditions, and all those beginning the long process of recovery.
If the affected areas receive an applicable natural disaster declaration and National Emergency Fund (NEF) assistance is activated, eligible Legionnaires and American Legion posts will be able to submit NEF applications through Department Headquarters. Additional information, eligibility requirements, and instructions for submitting applications will be shared as soon as they become available.
In the days ahead, please continue to follow the guidance of local emergency officials, avoid flooded roads and unsafe areas, and reach out for assistance when needed. Recovery will take time, but no member of our Legion Family should feel that they must walk through it alone.
To all those affected, you remain in our thoughts and prayers. May you find safety, strength, comfort, and hope in knowing that your American Legion Family stands beside you now and throughout the recovery ahead.
For God and Country,
The American Legion
Department of Ohio