American Legion
Post 3 History
By Doug Vig
Early in 1919, after the armistice ending of World War I was signed, veterans begin returning
to Ketchikan. In July of that year a group of these veterans banded together under the
name of "The Sons of Democracy" and elected as President A. H. Zeiglar. In October, the
men realized that the newly formed American Legion was the organization that they should
align themselves with. They subsequently disbanded and transferred all funds to the new
group with the anticipation of joining The American Legion.
The American Legion, Department of Alaska held its organizational convention in Juneau
April 23rd through the 26th, 1920. There was Post from eleven towns represented,
Ketchikan being one. These veterans were eager to preserve their memories of there
association in the Great War and to assist their fellow veterans.
On December 29th, 1920 the Ketchikan group was granted a Charter as Ketchikan, Post #3
on the Department of Alaska. There were 72 names on the Charter, with most of them being
future leaders of this community. Ketchikan Post #3 has proudly served Ketchikan for over
80 years, assisting veterans, their families and the youth of the area.