American Legion Post 86 stands as a testament to the commitment and camaraderie of Nacogdoches veterans. Our Post was founded in 1919, the very year the National American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress. This makes Post 86 one of the first Posts in the nation, established by World War I veterans who had just returned home from the “war to end all wars.

• Founded on Four Pillars: The veterans who established this Post acted on the American Legion’s core mission: to serve their fellow veterans, their community, their state, and their nation. In 1919, this meant immediately focusing on:
  • Veteran Rehabilitation: Working to ensure Nacogdoches veterans received the medical care and vocational training they needed after the war.
  • Americanism: Promoting patriotism, responsible citizenship, and flag etiquette in the community.
  • Youth Programs: Beginning the support of local youth programs, a tradition that continues today with scholarships and sponsoring students to attend Texas Boys State.
  • National Security: Advocating for strong national defense and a continuous focus on preparedness.

American Legion Post 86 proudly honors the life and sacrifice of a Nacogdoches native and true American hero: Private First Class Oscar P. Austin, USMC.

PFC Austin gave his life while saving a fellow Marine in Vietnam—an act of extraordinary bravery that earned him the Medal of Honor.

Legacy: PFC Austin’s courage and selflessness embodies the “mutual helpfulness” spirit upon which the American Legion was founded.

Honors: His name and service continue to inspire members of Post 86, and he is further memorialized by the U.S. Navy destroyer, the USS Oscar Austin (DDG-79).

Commitment: Our Post is dedicated to upholding the legacy of PFC Oscar P. Austin by remaining deeply involved in veteran support and youth mentorship in the Nacogdoches area.

Today, Post 86 remains a vital force in Nacogdoches County. Our mission is to provide compassionate outreach and maintain a welcoming environment for all veterans and their families.

• Key Activities
  • Direct Veteran Assistance: Providing support for struggling veterans with essentials like food, rent, utilities, and emergency repairs.
  • Community Engagement: Sponsoring students for Texas Boys State, offering scholarships, and participating in local events like the Pineywoods Fair.
  • The Legion Family: Our strength comes from the entire Post 86 family, including the Sons of the American Legion (SAL), the Legion Riders, and the Legion Auxiliary, all working together to support our veterans and their families.
  • A Place of Camaraderie: We strive to maintain a safe environment of camaraderie and belonging—a place where veterans can connect “soldier to soldier, sailor to sailor, airman to airman.