36 U.S.C. § 140502 — Principles and purposes

(a) Principles.—The corporation is based on patriotic allegiance to the United States, fidelity to the Constitution and laws of the United States, the security of civil liberty, and the permanence of free institutions. (b) Purposes.—The corporation’s purposes are educational, fraternal, historical, and patriotic. They perpetuate the principles of liberty and justice that created the United States by—(1) commemorating all national patriotic holidays; (2) maintaining true allegiance to the United States Government and fidelity to its Constitution and laws; (3) preserving and strengthening fellowship and patriotism among members; (4) assisting, comforting, and helping needy and distressed members and their dependents; (5) providing needed hospital and service work through its Department of Veterans Affairs certified service officers; (6) cooperating with other civic and patriotic organizations that have worthy objectives; (7) keeping alive the achievements and memory of the country’s founders; (8) always honoring the memory of General George Washington, who founded the Purple Heart at his headquarters at Newburgh-on-the-Hudson on August 7, 1782; (9) influencing and teaching citizens to appreciate loyally the heritage of American citizenship, including its responsibilities and privileges; and (10) preserving and defending the United States against all enemies.