Awards and Nominations

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The American Legion recognizes employers, organizations, public safety professionals, and employment-service representatives whose work improves opportunities for veterans and strengthens their communities.

Recognizing Outstanding Service

Supporting meaningful employment for veterans has been part of The American Legion’s mission since its earliest years. As public and private programs have changed, the Legion’s work has expanded to include job fairs, employment advocacy, community recognition, and awards honoring those who provide exceptional service.

American Legion members and Posts are encouraged to submit nominations in the appropriate award categories. Department winners may be recognized at the Department Convention and forwarded for national consideration.

Important: Nomination deadlines and eligibility requirements are established by the American Legion Department of Kansas. Review the current nomination form carefully and confirm all requirements before submitting a nomination. Late nominations may not be considered for national recognition.

Veterans and Employment Awards

Employer of Veterans Award

Department deadline: December 31

This award recognizes Kansas private-sector employers with outstanding records of hiring and retaining veterans.

Posts may nominate one employer in each category:

Small employer: 50 or fewer employees
Medium employer: 51 to 200 employees
Large employer: 201 or more employees

Nominees must meet the eligibility requirements listed in the form.

View Nomination Form

Employer of Older Workers Award

Department deadline: December 31

This award recognizes employers that hire and retain older workers and value their proven skill, stability, knowledge, and experience.

The Department winner may receive a plaque, while other nominees may receive certificates of recognition.

View Nomination Form

Employment Service Awards

Department deadline: December 31

This group includes three recognition categories:

Local Veterans Employment Representative of the Year
Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialist of the Year
Outstanding Employment Service Office of the Year

These awards recognize exceptional job counseling, placement, testing, outreach, and employment assistance provided to veterans.

View Nomination Form

Award to Enhance the Lives of Disabled Persons

Department deadline: December 31

This award recognizes organizations, projects, and programs that improve quality of life and expand opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in community activities.

Legion projects or programs that provide meaningful support, accessibility, inclusion, or community participation may be considered.

View Nomination Form

Public Safety Awards

Firefighter of the Year Award

Department deadline: January 15

This award recognizes an active firefighter who exceeds the normal expectations of the position and demonstrates a strong record of professional achievement, community service, and, when applicable, heroic action.

Nominees must be active firefighters and United States citizens. Emergency medical technicians are eligible only when they are also certified firefighters.

View Nomination Form

Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award

Department deadline: January 15

This award recognizes a well-rounded law enforcement officer who exceeds duty requirements and demonstrates exceptional professional achievement and community service.

Nominees must satisfy the citizenship, employment, certification, residence, and duty-assignment requirements listed in the nomination form.

View Nomination Form

Submitting a Nomination

Before submitting a nomination, carefully review the applicable form and collect all required supporting documentation. A strong nomination should clearly explain how the nominee exceeds normal expectations and benefits veterans, individuals with disabilities, or the broader community.

Questions about local nominations or assistance identifying the correct award category may be directed to Post 47 through our Contact page.

Contact Post 47 Explore Our Programs

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