Veterans Helping Veterans & Serving Our Community
ENHANCE THE WELL BEING OF LOCAL VETERANS, THEIR FAMILIES, OUR MILITARY, AND OUR COMMUNITY THROUGH DEVOTION TO MUTUAL HELPFULNESS.
More than 260 Post 543 members live the value principles of the American Legion. Those principles embody selfless service, American values, patriotism, community engagement, education and mentoring of new generations of Americans, and perpetual respect for all past military sacrifices. We are members of St James and the greater Brunswick County community and we are “The American Legion”!
Honor Those Who came Before Us
We preserve the memories of those who served by providing U.S. flags for local veteran funerals; participating in patriotic observances and events in St James and greater Brunswick County area; and by conducting honor guard services and memorial tributes for veterans within our community.
Build A Strong Youth Generation who Value Their Community And Their Nation
We provide multiple youth services and programs for local young children and youth by offering financial assistance for needy military and veteran families with young children; mentoring of youth through college scholarships like the Richie Hat Trick Scholarship or nursing student scholarship competitions , American Legion Boys and Girls State, and our Oratorical Competition; supporting programs and events for local youth such as Boy Scout projects, American Legion Baseball, Junior JROTC rifle teams, Civil Air Patrol Cadet excellence, and Youth Cadet Law Enforcement programs.
CONTINUE TO SERVE OUR AGING VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES
Through our Post 543 Service Officer/VAT and our Chaplain/Ministry Team , we connect veterans and their families with in-home and community-based care, respite care, caregiver education, and family support services including compensation, pension, health care and funeral benefits; medical claim support resources; North Carolina state benefits and services; and services that helps with physical, emotional or spiritual needs.
2026 Military Appreciation Fund Raising
St. James Military Appreciation Neighborhood Donations
Starting June 1st, 2026
American Legion Post 543 is committed to making a measurable difference in the lives of veterans, their families, and youth in our local community.
Most importantly, the majority of funds raised here, stay here to assist local veterans in need as well as the youth and programs in our local community.
Military Appreciation Golf Tournament
Save the Date
August 8, 2026
Where: The Clubs at St. James
Tournament and Sign-up Information to Follow
Our vison is to serve veterans under the four pillars of the american Legion and take care of one another.
Nurture a culture of service to veterans and their families.
Strive to meet the needs of our fellow Post members and local area veterans.
Provide support and assistance to veterans’ programs.
Grow membership participation in the ongoing efforts of our Post.
Partner with external organizations to improve Post programs.
Comply with Department, Division and District requirements.
Learn About Post 543 Programs & services
Remember Your Loved Ones
Order A Memorial Walway Brick
The St. James Memorial, and the brick walkway leading to it, pay tribute to all veterans who stood in defense of our great democracy. Order forms are available at St. James Town Hall.
Questions or need a form? Contact Tom Picinich phone: 201-218-8753 emai: tapicinich@ATMC.NET