Soldier's Wish Partners with The American Legion and Provides Emergency Supplies to Victims and First Responders of Tornado Devastated Areas

MOORE, Okla., May 21, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The American Legion announces it is allocating $1 million from The American Legion National Emergency Fund to aid veterans and their families affected by the deadly Oklahoma tornadoes. Veterans can use money provided from The American Legion Emergency Relief Fund to cover relocation and emergency expenses.

Executives from Soldier's Wish and The American Legion National Office have already arrived in Oklahoma and spent Monday evening loading trailers with needed supplies.  They are in position now, waiting for authorities to allow them into the devastated town of Moore to provide water, food and other critical items to help the community as they work through this crisis.

"The American Legion is committed to the welfare of all service members and has been on the front lines with veterans and their families in times like these since 1919," said James E. Koutz, National Commander of The American Legion.   

Veterans in need of emergency assistance should call 1-800-504-4098 or go online to www.Legion.org to complete The America Legion National Emergency Fund application.

Any veterans that have legal custody of minor children can seek help though the Legion's Temporary Financial Assistance Program.

Individuals, who wish to donate to The American Legion National Emergency Fund, should call 1-800-253-7000, donate online at www.Legion.org/Emergency/Help or mail checks to The American Legion NEF, PO Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

The National Emergency Fund has provided over $6,000,000 in direct financial assistance to Legion family members and posts.

The American Legion Post 184 located at 207 Southwest 1st Street in Moore, OK took a direct hit from the tornadoes but will still serve as the hub for The American Legion relief efforts.   The trailers of emergency supplies are in position and will be at The American Legion Post 184 as soon as authorities permit access to the devastated area.  Until that time, they are at the Command Center to cook and provide supplies to first responders.

About The American Legion

The nation's largest wartime veteran's organization, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veteran's affairs, Americanism, and patriotic youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through nearly 14,000 posts across the nation.  www.Legion.org

About Soldier's Wish

Soldier's Wish is a Virginia not-for-profit organization, dedicated to honoring veterans, active duty members of the United States Armed Forces and their families. Soldier's Wish says "thank you" by providing acts of kindness to meet unmet needs for the unwavering sacrifice made by the brave men and women who served — and continue to serve — our country.  www.SoldiersWish.org

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