ABOUT OUR POST
Honoring Service. Supporting Veterans. Strengthening Community.
ABOUT POST 171
Post 171 has a long history of dedicated service to the Crystal Lake community and greater McHenry County area. In recent years, Post 171 has reorganized its supporting activities to further its current mission: increasing community engagement with Veterans. A particular emphasis has been placed on suicide prevention and the underserved population of female Veterans.
National statistics indicate Veteran suicide rates are reaching epidemic proportions. Each day, 22 Veterans take their own lives. As a means of comparison, war casualties recorded after 9/11 are approximately 7,000. The number of veterans who have taken their own lives during that same period of time has reached 30,000.
Several area events assist local Veterans and connect them with resources to improve their quality of life after discharge. Here’s an example of past events Post 171 hosted /partnered:
Vets 4 Veteran Families and Blue Families This free, family-focused community event provided educational workshops and speakers dedicated to topics such as PTSD, Veteran suicide, and impact on families. Kids’ activities, music, food trucks, motorcycles/classic cars, and equine therapy organizations were also part of the event.
In August 2022, Walk a Mile in Her Boots brought together 50 female Veterans to decorate their combat boots. The boots were positioned on a mile-long path where event-goers walked a mile (or more!) to recognize and honor the women who have fought for our country. Walk a Mile in Her Boots is co-sponsored by Operation Wild Horse, a program of Veterans R&R in Bull Valley, which hosts the event.
Women Veterans Business Event: Women Veterans were encouraged to find like-minded sisters through various activities such as yoga, crafts, cooking, etc., and engage in conversation — female Vet to female Vet. Networking and business connections were also encouraged.
Keep checking Post 171 website for upcoming events and resources.
Our Mission
“The American Legion: Veterans Strengthening America”
Our Vision
“To enhance the well-being of America’s Veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.”
Our Namesake
Lieutenant William Chandler Peterson
William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 proudly bears the name of Lieutenant William Chandler Peterson, a Crystal Lake native who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country during World War I.
His service and sacrifice became part of the foundation upon which Post 171 was established. By carrying his name, our Post honors not only his memory but also the generations of American service members who have answered the call to duty.
More than a century later, Lieutenant Peterson's legacy continues through our commitment to honoring veterans, supporting military families, and serving the Crystal Lake community.
His name is our heritage. His service is our inspiration.
Our History
More Than a Century of Service to Crystal Lake
In September 1919, just months after the conclusion of World War I, William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 was chartered in Crystal Lake, Illinois.
Established by veterans who understood the importance of camaraderie, service, and mutual support, the Post became a place where those who served could come together while continuing to make a difference in their community.
As the organization grew, so did its impact. The establishment of the American Legion Auxiliary in 1927 expanded opportunities for families and community members to participate in the Legion's mission. In 1946, the Post reached another important milestone with the establishment of its Post home.
Throughout the decades, Post 171 has remained committed to honoring those who served, supporting veterans and their families, participating in patriotic observances, and contributing to the Crystal Lake community.
From the veterans who founded the Post following World War I to those serving today, each generation has helped carry forward a tradition of service, remembrance, and fellowship.
Founded in 1919. Rooted in Crystal Lake. Committed to Service.
1919 — Post 171 Chartered
William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 is established in Crystal Lake following World War I.
1927 — American Legion Auxiliary Chartered
The Auxiliary expands opportunities for families and community members to support veterans and the Legion's mission.
1946 — Post Home Established
An important milestone in the Post's growth and its connection to the community.
Today — Continuing the Legacy
Post 171 continues to support veterans, recognize military service, and strengthen the Crystal Lake community.
September, 1919
The Crystal Lake American Legion Post #171 was chartered
June, 1927
43 women chartered The Crystal Lake American Legion Auxiliary Post #171
Wives, mothers, and daughters of servicemen organized together to help needy families, engage in Red Cross endeavors, and aid any project benefiting the community. Members also helped returning Veterans by making lap robes and scuffies for them, and entertaining Vets at VA hospitals.
August, 1946
Post #171 acquires a home
In August, 1946, the American Legion Post #171 purchased the former Randall property at the corner of Woodstock and Oak Streets. The house was described as, “one of the finest in the community and is large and spacious. It will provide a meeting place, club rooms and space for other needs.”
1986
Membership swells to 471
In the mid-1980s, Post #171 membership reached nearly 500, as Vietnam War Veterans began participating.
June, 2021
Vets 4 Veterans’ Families and Blue Families takes place
Post #171 hosted 300 individuals, including 150 veterans, at this family-focused community event to connect local Veterans with resources for post-deployment, including equine therapy organizations, VA hospital personnel and more.
To Become a Member
If you have served at least one day of active military duty since December 7, 1941 and were honorably discharged or you are still serving active military duty honorably, you are eligible for membership with The American Legion. Crystal Lake American Legion Post 171 enthusiastically welcomes new members. Come join our post for camaraderie with fellow Veterans and to participate in a variety of community activities in support of Veterans causes. To join our post, you can apply for membership here or email legionpostcl171@gmail.com and we will send an application form to you. If you use the online application, please note that you wish to join Crystal Lake Post 171.
The Crystal Lake American Legion meets at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. New members are requested to contact us prior to their first meeting.
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