Mission Statement: In the spirit of service, not self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace, and security.
Once the flags were all retrieved, the group met at the Legion for social time with light snacks and refreshments.
Ely American Legion Family Scholarship
The Ely American Legion Family is offering scholarships for high school seniors. The application period opens annually on January 2 (and closes March 31).
The 2026 scholarship application opens on January 2, 2026. The online application allows students to answer questions about their academics, background, and extracurricular activities.
Applicants will be reviewed by a committee of Auxiliary members who will read and score utilizing a private / “blind” analysis process. Once six award finalists are determined, the Ely American Legion Family will decide on the three (3) final award recipients, who each will receive a one-time $555 scholarship award.
The Scholarship recipients are announced in mid-April; the award will be given directly to the winner.
Eligibility and selection criteria:
- Be a high school graduating senior, showing academic promise, with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale.
- Applicants are recommended to reside in Linn or an adjacent county. (Benton, Buchanan, Cedar, Delaware, Iowa, Johnson, Jones, Linn)
- Applicants must be a child, sibling, grandchild, great-grandchild, niece, or nephew of a military service member. Details of an applicant’s service member relative should include the following: Name, Branch of Service, and Status of Service Member (deceased or living).
-or-
A person pursuing military service post-graduation without family ties to the military. These applicants must provide documentation of that status (official communication from the United States Government/military) - What makes you the best candidate for this scholarship?
- How do you see your future career helping your community?
- Please list your community outreach, volunteer activities, and academic and non-academic honors.
- What extracurricular activities or hobbies do you plan to participate in while in the military/trade school/college/university?
The application process is strictly online. Include all sources of evidence:
1. A copy of your high school transcript.
2. A copy of an upcoming fall academic schedule (screenshot is acceptable) OR a copy of a letter of acceptance.
3. Two letter(s) of recommendation.
Fundraising
The Ely American Legion Auxiliary fundraises by selling special treats throughout the year. Let us do the prep work by preparing and baking cookies, and YOU can have quality time decorating!
Watch the Ely American Legion Facebook page for the next opportunity to support our group!
Girls State (annually in June, mid to late June for 5 days (see Iowa American Legion Auxiliary Girls State site for details and dates))
The Iowa American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program:
• Develops leadership and pride in American citizens.
• Educates citizens about our system of government.
• Instills a greater understanding of American traditions.
• Stimulates a desire to maintain our democratic government processes within our republic.
• Network with fellow students your age, and the experience looks great on your resume!!
If interested in completing an application for consideration, please contact the Ely Auxiliary at unit555auxiliary@gmail.com or Stephanie Johnson at sjohnson92@me.com before the preceding October* of the year before the June Girls State.
(*= please validate that dates work for you, review the Iowa Girls State website).
Auxiliary Membership
As a membership-driven, nonprofit patriotic service organization, the American Legion Auxiliary could accomplish very little without its members and their dedication to our mission. Through our programs, our dedicated members impact the lives of veterans, military, their families, and the general public. In short, without our members, the ALA could not exist.
If you are interested in joining the Ely American Legion Auxiliary Post 555, please contact Marlene Mertens, Membership Chairperson, 4000 Vista Road, Ely, IA 52227, phone: 319.329.7356 or by email unit555auxiliary@gmail.com.
For your convenience, join by using this link: American Legion Auxiliary Membership Form. Please complete the form and send it to: Marlene Mertens, Membership Chairperson, 4000 Vista Road, Ely, IA 52227.
Links:
Iowa American Legion Auxiliary
American Legion Auxiliary
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Do you have a student who is interested in learning more about firearms?
The Ely American Legion can help!
We offer an annual Basic Marksmanship Class, click here for details.