HISTORY

HISTORY OF AMERICAN LEGION POST 21 - JONESBORO, ARKANSAS

The American Legion Post 21 in Jonesboro, Arkansas holds a rich legacy deeply rooted in honoring veterans and their service to the nation. Officially chartered on July 22, 1919, Post 21 was established shortly after World War I as part of the national American Legion movement,
which aimed to provide ongoing support to veterans and their families.

Originally, Post 21 followed the early American Legion tradition of meeting in a log cabin — a standard design for many posts during the Legion’s early years. Over time, as membership grew and needs changed, Post 21 relocated to a larger facility on Dan Avenue in Jonesboro. This location became well-known throughout the community, especially for hosting professional wrestling events, which were major fundraisers for the post for many years. Wrestling was a huge attraction and a memorable part of the post’s community engagement.

As interests shifted and wrestling events declined, the Dan Avenue property was sold in 2020. After careful planning, Post 21 found its current home in 2023 — a former house that underwent extensive renovations to become a fully functional commercial facility. Today, the post remains an active and vital organization with approximately 125 members, all united by their commitment to serving veterans, their families, and the broader community.

An important part of Post 21’s name comes from George Pickett, a local Craighead County resident who was the first from the area to give his life for liberty during World War I at Château-Thierry, France. In honor of his sacrifice, the post was named Pickett Post.

American Legion Post 21 remains a proud and active part of Jonesboro's history, continuing to serve veterans with dignity and honor for over a century.

OUR VISION & MISSION

To enhance the well-being of America's veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness. The American Legion's vision statement is "The American Legion: Veterans Strengthening America."
The American Legion's value principles are as follows:

A VETERAN IS A VETERAN

which means The American Legion embraces all current and former members of the military and endeavors to help them transition into their communities.

SELFLESS SERVICE

which means The American Legion celebrates all who contribute to something larger than themselves and inspires others to serve and strengthen America.

AMERICAN VALUES AND
PATRIOTISM

which means The American Legion advocates for upholding and defending the United States Constitution, equal justice and opportunity for everyone, no discrimination, youth education, responsible citizenship, and honoring military service by observing and participating in memorial events.