In 1944 the Post supported the G.I. Bill S. 1767 pending at that time before the House Committee on World War legislation.
Of note is that at this time Merchant Marine veterans of WWII were not eligible for membership. The Post had to refuse membership for a membership application due to this restriction. Members of the Merchant Marines became officially veterans in 1988.
The American Legion had long opposed giving Merchant Marines veteran status. As National Commander John Comer stated on ABC News in 1988:
“Clearly they are not veterans.... They did not take the oath for four years like members of the Armed Forces did, and they did not wear uniforms.”
(Historical note: Why aren’t Merchant Marines who served in Vietnam not eligible?)
