The American Legion Post 474 has been in Half Moon Bay since April 20th 1934. On that date a charter was signed and the post came into existence. It is a dedicated post for Veterans who have served in all branches of the service during times of conflict. The American Legion Auxiliary Post 474 charter was signed in January 1962; these are the mothers, wives, daughters and sisters of the American Legion Members. The Sons of the American Legion charter was signed in 1987. All of the above continue their service to America by still serving their communities, by raising funds for local charities and to give support to our veterans nationally, and at our local Veterans Hospital in Menlo Park.

Throughout the year The American Legion Post 474 raises funds for local charities by all members working together. The Dream Machines and The Pumpkin Festival are two of the local charitable events that the American Legion Post 474 takes pride in participating. A booth selling food and drink is erected and the profits from these events are donated to local charities, the Coastside Opportunity Center, Coastside Adult Day Care Center, and the Senior Center are few local charities that benefit.

Breakfasts, bake sales, and raffles are put on by the Woman’s Auxiliary. These funds are used to help sponsor Girls State, and help local charities, and to provide assistance to our veterans in our local hospital in Menlo Park.

Each year The American Legion Post 474, and the Woman’s Auxiliary proudly sponsor four outstanding high school students to attend Boys State/Girls State. During the weeklong program, participants receive instruction on citizenship and experience first hand how their state and federal government function.

The American Legion, Woman’s Auxiliary, and Sons of the American Legion, all participate in the Forth of July Parade, dressing in the uniform that depicts their branch of service they proudly lead the parade down the Main Street.

Christmas is a time for giving at Post 474, members of the Unknowns, a Motorcycle Club who are all post members do a toy run to benefit a local charity that help coastside families who are less fortunate than others. The Woman’s Auxiliary makes many substantial donations to local charitable organizations that are in need during the holidays.

Veterans Day, and Memorial Day is a day we all work together to pay homage to those missing in action, and those who died for our country. Veterans from our local Menlo Park Veterans Hospital are invited to participate in services, a barbeque is held, it is a time of remembrance, this gives us the opportunity to reflect on those who fought so gallantly for God and our Country.

We are a non-profit 501 C-3 corporation. All contributions are tax deductible. Federal Tax ID number 51-0182162.

Beer Garden available for community events.

National Archives and Records Administration