Welcome to Tom Powell Post#77

At the conclusion of World War I, a group of soldiers discussed the formation of a veterans organization before leaving France, March 15-17, 1919. Upon their return to the United States, a caucus was held in St. Louis, Missouri, where the permanent organization of the American Legion was founded, May 8-10, 1919. Among those present were Black veterans who helped lay the foundation of the American Legion. On September 17, 1919, a charter was issued to the very first Black post in America, located in St. Louis, MO and given the name – TOM POWELL POST #77.

Now in existence for more than one hundred years, Tom Powell Post #77 is both the oldest African-American post in the American Legion (circa 1919), and in the United States.

Additionally, Tom Powell Post #77 is the first all African-American Honor Guard Team in the State of Missouri, and has served in events from over 500 Military Funeral Honors to date, to include: ‘The Wall That Heals’ Vietnam Veteran’s Traveling Memorial; Mayor’s State of the Union Address; Re-Opening of Soldier’s Memorial; Missouri History Museum; Ceremonial Honors at Greenwood Cemetery and Bellefontaine Cemetery, as well as performing annually at the Annie Malone Parade and numerous other military and civic events in the St. Louis area.

Community Centric

We hope that you will be able to support one or more of the many exciting projects and events that we are offering this year and experience first hand the pride we take in our continued service to our YOUTH, VETERANS and COMMUNITY.

Membership

Join Tom Powell Post 77 to connect with fellow veterans and access exclusive benefits.

Honor Guard

Our 77 Honor Guard performs ceremonies honoring those who served with precision and heartfelt respect.

We provide services and projects to serve our neighboring communities, and for those in need.

Community Events