CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – Hundreds of western Massachusetts veterans are affected by a new law signed by the president this past summer. All veterans, regardless of which years they served, may now join the American Legion and to enjoy all the benefits.

The Legion Act now permits all veterans, regardless of when they served, to become members of the American Legion and to enjoy all the benefits. Millions of veterans serving during non-war time years are affected.

The Legion Act covers everyone in the military since Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941.

“They will get veteran services. Officers from the American Legion will help them, plus discounts and volunteer help will also be available to them. Benefits like scholarships and anything else they have been missing,” said Jodie Pajak of the American Legion.

Just this past Friday during Military Appreciation Day at the Big E, local legionnaires began reaching out to veterans explaining the new law.

An estimated three to 500 western Massachusetts previously excluded veterans may now join the American Legion.