American Legion

The American Legion service cap belonged to Lieutenant Donald C. Jefferson, a World War I veteran. American Legion is an organization founded in 1919 and composed of the veterans who dedicated their lives to service during World War I, World II, and the Korean War. It is considered the largest veteran organization in history. The organization is mainly headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana in addition to other main offices in Washington D.C. and New York. The Legion operates under the principle of a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. Lt. Jefferson served as an officer of the 371st Field Artillery Regiment during World War I. While in the Army, Jefferson protested the discrimination against African American servicemen, which prompted the Army to establish the 351st. After the war he resumed his education at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Pharmacy and from 1923-1967 was president of the Lincoln Drug Company. He became a member of the Angell-Rolen Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Phillips, James. “King-Sized American Legion to Celebrate 44th Anniversary.” Elizabethtown Chronicle, Newspapers.com. p. 12. 14 March 1963.