Women who had relatives in the 126th Infantry 32nd Division had organized themselves in 1917 after the Grand Rapids Michigan National Guard had left to contribute to the war effort. Two years later, the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Michigan was officially created as a Unit to the Carl A. Johnson Post Number Two on July 9, 1919 (the American Legion itself was organized at the close of World War One, prompting a request to assimilate into the official structure of the veterans organization).
The Auxiliary not only supports members of the American Legion, it is also a major source of volunteers working on behalf of veterans residing in Veterans Administration hospitals. Auxiliary members also contribute a great deal of time, effort and money to programs to help veterans, their community and especially children.1
The Department of Michigan began holding state annual conventions in 1921 to facilitate the administrative functions of the Auxiliary, documenting not only these conventions but the Executive Committee meetings as well. They also sponsor many programs, most of which are highlighted during particular months. Some of these programs include: Americanism, Girls State/Nation, Cavalcade of Memories, National Security, and Poppy Days.
From the guide to the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Michigan records, 1917-2008, 1933-2005, (Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan)
