The American Legion National Executive Committee approved a resolution during its October 7–8, 2026, Fall Meetings authorizing the creation of a national ad hoc committee to explore establishing a Legion Esports and Video Gaming Club.
The resolution marks a significant step toward incorporating video gaming into the Legion’s efforts to foster camaraderie, strengthen connections among veterans and engage younger generations of servicemembers and their families.
Originating from the National Internal Affairs Commission, the resolution authorizes National Commander Jay Bowen to appoint a committee tasked with developing a concept for a national esports and video gaming club.
The committee will be responsible for developing a vision and mission statement while examining the proposed club’s purpose, organizational structure, activities, governance, resources and potential timeline for implementation.
The resolution acknowledges the growing popularity of video gaming among veterans, active-duty servicemembers and younger generations, recognizing its potential to create opportunities for fellowship and introduce new audiences to The American Legion’s programs and Four Pillars.
Organized gaming activities could also provide another avenue for connecting existing Legion members with prospective members who share an interest in recreational and competitive video games.
The resolution specifically distinguishes esports and video gaming from gambling, emphasizing that the proposed club would focus exclusively on recreational, competitive and social electronic gaming activities rather than wagering or games of chance.
Under the measure, committee members may meet virtually and, when appropriate, in person to develop recommendations for consideration by national leadership.
While the resolution does not immediately establish a national gaming club or program, its passage provides a formal framework for evaluating how esports and video gaming could become part of The American Legion’s broader membership engagement efforts.
The committee’s recommendations will help determine the potential structure and implementation timeline for a future national club.
The resolution is among 14 measures approved by the National Executive Committee during the October Fall Meetings.
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