mocratic Speaker of the House of
Representatives. Colonel Roosevelt is sufficient authority for
the assurance that the movement is neither partisan nor
political. He calls it "an association which will keep alive the
principles of justice, freedom and democracy for which these
veterans fought." Viewed in that sentimental, ethical and
patriotic light, it is a commendable undertaking. The American
people will wish it well, and be glad to see it flourish....

_Norfolk_ (Va.) _Dispatch_, April 9, 1919.--If the American
Legion now in process of organization by young Colonel Roosevelt
and his associates, clings to the principles of foundation and
holds by the purposes proclaimed by its founders, it may become
a mighty force for good in the land. It will be composed of
several millions of comparatively youthful Americans, a large
percentage of whom will be voters, while virtually all will have
demonstrated their readiness to fight their country's battles
with weapons far deadlier than bullets.... This assumes the
legion will fulfill the part it has undertaken to play in the
country's life. If it should degenerate into a selfish
protective body, it will be worse than useless. But there is
little reason to fear it will fall so far below its ideals while
there is every reason to hope it will be a powerful factor in
helping the country to find itself again.

_New Orleans Item_, April 14, 1919.--The American Legion through
the tremendous influence and mighty power of 3,000,000 organized
fighting men, is certain to shape and control the destinies of
the nation in years to come to an extent of which the wise will
refrain from even suggesting a limit. With the announcement by
Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roosevelt that the "Legion will be
interested in policies, but not in politics," the opinion may
safely be hazarded that the great political parties of the
country are due to have new mentors, from whom they may be
forced to look anxiously for their cues.

Primarily among the announced purposes of the Legion is the
perpetuating of those principles of justice, freedom and
democracy for which its members either fought or stood ready to
fight. On the field in France or in the training camps at home,
the millions of America's best manhood have learned intimately
and well a new lesso