Send us a text

Jerry Allhands sits down with Trish Ward, the 2024-2025 American Legion Auxiliary National President, for a compelling conversation that reveals the heart of the American Legion family's mission to support veterans across America.

At the Oxford VA Home in Mississippi, President Ward shares her remarkable journey from California transplant to national leadership. After relocating to Kansas in 1999, a simple invitation from her realtor—an Auxiliary member—changed the trajectory of her life. Eligible through her father's WWII Army service, Ward's 25-year journey through local and national leadership positions demonstrates how the Legion family thrives through personal connections and mentorship.

Ward expertly clarifies eligibility requirements for the American Legion family's different branches, including recent changes allowing spouses of female veterans to join the Auxiliary. She addresses a common concern with refreshing honesty: even those ”too busy” to attend meetings can make a profound difference through membership dues that fund critical programs supporting veterans, military families, and children.

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Ward discusses the ”Be the One” initiative targeting veteran suicide prevention. She shares the story of a Mississippi family who, after losing their veteran son, created ”Ronnie's Retreat” to help others struggling with mental health challenges. This work connects directly to the Legion's founding purpose—providing the camaraderie veterans often miss after service.

From junior Auxiliary members creating door decorations for VA home residents to the legislative advocacy that shapes veteran policy, Ward illuminates how the Legion family combines personal connection with national impact. Whether you're Legion-eligible or simply care about veterans' wellbeing, this episode offers a moving look at an organization still ”leading the way” after more than a century of service.

Subscribe to Veterans Sound Off to hear more stories of those supporting America's heroes, and call 662-902-6658 to learn how you can help keep these important conversations going.

Support the show

Don't forget to subscribe and share with your friends and family. Drop us a line today at [email protected]. If you'd like to become a sponsor of our show or advertise with us please send an email to [email protected] or call us at 662-902-6658.