The American Legion, the largest wartime veterans organization, is looking to open a new post in Farmingdale. The American Legion once had a post in Farmingdale several years ago but closed soon after membership started to diminish. Men and women who either have served the country in the past or are currently in active duty in any branch of the United States Armed Forces are welcome to join.

Those eligible to join the Legion must have served during the following dates: World War II (Dec. 7, 1941 to Dec. 31, 1945); Korean War (June 25, 1950 to Jan. 31, 1955); Vietnam War (Feb. 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975); Lebanon and Grenada Action (Aug. 24, 1982 to July 31, 1984); Panama Action (Dec. 20, 1989 to Jan. 31, 1990); Persian Gulf Action (Aug. 2, 1990 to present day).

According to Nassau County Commander John Marino, the American Legion decided to try to start a new post in Farmingdale after speaking to some local veterans who expressed an interest. He explained that the only local veterans group that those who served in the military can currently join is the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), which requires that members served overseas and have a campaign ribbon.

"The American Legion does have restrictions, you have to have served during wartime, but you didn't have to [necessarily] serve overseas," Marino said.

"What we're fighting for is to get young men and ladies to come in," he added. "We want to entice the young people to join so the American Legion can keep going. Anybody that's on active duty today can join."

Veterans who sign up early in forming the post will become charter members and their names will appear on the post charter. Marino explained that once many members show an interest in joining, a decision will be made as to the name of the post. He noted that it could be named after a deceased veteran who lived in Farmingdale or could be simply called "Farmingdale Post" and then the number.

To help reach local residents, the American Legion of Nassau County is sending a letter to every household in Farmingdale, hoping to pique interest from local veterans. Marino explained that although the post will be located in Farmingdale, any eligible veteran from any town or village is welcome to join.

The Legion is in the process of obtaining a suitable location to hold an initial informational meeting to explain how to proceed, what will be required in order to form a new post in the area and answer questions interested parties may have.

Anybody who is a veteran or knows a veteran who may be interested please call or have them call 694-9029 or 822-9355 Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. for more information.