The American Legion, commonly known as the Legion, is an organization of U.S. veterans headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. It comprises state, U.S. territory, and overseas departments, in turn made up of local posts. It was established in March 1919 in Paris, France, by officers and men of the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF). It was subsequently chartered by the 66th U.S. Congress on September 16, 1919.

The Legion played the leading role in drafting and passing the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, commonly known as the "G.I. Bill". In addition to organizing commemorative events, members assist at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals and clinics. It is active in issue-oriented U.S. politics. Its primary political activity is lobbying on behalf of veterans and service members, including for benefits such as pensions and the Veterans Health Administration.

The American Legion is the only veterans' organization that is chartered by the United States Congress. The West Ashley South Carolina Post 179 was chartered on December 15, 1987 in honor of (Major) First Lieutenant Charles Quincy Williams, a Medal of Honor recipient.