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Why Join

Since our charter in 1983, our American Legion Post 647 has been welcoming Veterans from all branches of our Armed Forces. Today, we continue to welcome all military personnel serving our country. Joining our Post enables you to continue serving your God, Country and Community.

Our Legionnaires participate in many community activities such as parades, memorials, dedications, etc. We have a funeral honor guard detail ready, willing and able at the family's request. Our funeral detail is available to all veterans. When requested, we are also available to help other veteran organizations with their memorials.

We sponsor local students to participate in the State oratorical contest, we sponsor scholarships to better educate our children, and we support our local high schools marching bands.

Post 647 Members Share Why They Joined

Greg Owens

I retired from the U.S. Navy in 1999, after 20 years of active duty as a Senior Chief Petty Officer. I missed the comradery of my fellow sailors and marines as I pursued the next chapter of life. In civilian life I was working with one of my past shipmates who assisted me acquiring the civilian job that employed me for the next 21 years. She also introduced me to the American Legion Post in San Leandro, CA. I was living in San Lorenzo at the time and only attended a couple of their meetings. Upon moving to Alameda in 2012, I found American Legion Post 647. Post 647 meets at the Veterans Memorial Building in Alameda, and I found it convenient. I soon realized that this organization was the thing I had been looking for and had not realized how much I had longed for the comradery with my fellow veterans. Interacting with those who understand where you are coming from is heartening. Of course, since we have members from all the branches of service, the jokes and BS are plentiful but respectful.

What I soon discovered is that American Legion Post 647 strives to ingrain itself in the Community. We Legionnaires can be found in Alameda events such as the 4th of July Parade, Memorial Day, Veterans Day to name only a few. We also provide a scholarship and sponsor High School Juniors who attend Alameda High Schools to attend the Boys and Girls State Event in Sacramento annually. Of highest importance, is the support Post 647 and the American Legion provide to Veterans with open arms. The American Legion has access to many programs and counseling regardless of the needs of our fellow veterans. Being a Legionnaire with American Legion Post 647 has helped me in many ways including filling that piece of my heart that belongs to the military service to this great Country and to the community I live in.

Sam Moriana

This is my second go around as a member of the American Legion. I was looking for a way to give back now that I am older, and the Alameda Post 647 has given me that. I have enjoyed the new friends that I have made. I have really enjoyed my involvement with a charity that the Post supports that helps homeless veterans come back into society.

Being a member of the Post has given me the outlet I was looking for to interact with other people in a meaningful way. I am hoping we can recruit younger veterans to carry on the programs such as Boys and Girls State, and our scholarship and oratorical program for local high schoolers. If you are a veteran and are looking for a rewarding experience, this is the place you want to be.

Joe Loparo

I am honored to share my experience as a member of American Legion Post 647. My journey with this remarkable post began after engaging with them as a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America. From the very start, I was deeply impressed by their unwavering commitment to our community.

American Legion Post 647 stands out for its active participation in community events and its steadfast support for the needs of our youth within the community. Their dedication to fostering a strong, visible presence in our community is truly inspiring. This post is not just an organization; it's a family that continually strives to make a positive impact.

I speak from the heart when I say that joining American Legion Post 647 has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. Their passion for service and community betterment resonates in everything they do. I am proud to be a part of such an extraordinary group, and I look forward to continuing our shared mission of support and visibility in the community.

Michael Sullivan

My name is Michael Sullivan. I served in the U.S. Coast Guard for 32 years. I am a third generation sailor - my grandfather was in the U.S. Navy and my father was in the Coast Guard. We proudly served on numerous ships and operational assignments in our over 80 years of combined service. I have been with the Legion for several years now and greatly appreciate the camaraderie, support, and community engagement that we practice and share. The Legion provides numerous avenues to support fellow veterans as well as to give back to the public. I encourage veterans to seek out and join the Post to build a sense of awareness and community, contribute to the network of support for fellow veterans, and to provide a social foundation in our area.

Jack MclLvain

As I neared my Retirement date, fellow shipmates and I wondered what we could do that was beyond “God and Country”? Due to our unique skills base, we had no problem becoming gainfully employed. Now we had to figure out how to utilize our Community Service talents and with whom?

I was invited to attend an American Legion Post 647 meeting comprised of very senior Legionnaires. It didn’t take long for me to make a decision. Paid my dues, was sworn in as the Sergeant-at-Arms and assigned a location for Poppy Sales. Busy three days. By the third month I had been sworn in as their new Finance Officer with just $900 in the bank account and I now manage approximately 13 times the original balance. I’m entering my 19th year. This Post continues to be very popular not only with the City but also with the Alameda High School Band where they play on Veteran’s Day. Crowd pleasers.

This Post continues to provide financial support to: Boys and Girls State and High School Scholarship(s). Operation Dignity is supported by a variety of private Post 647 members.

I enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded Veterans. Honor, Courage and Commitment.