The Beginning: 1953–1957
The story of American Legion Post 275 began in 1953, when Glenarden Mayor Cousins, supported by the Town Council, called a special meeting at the Municipal Hall. Veterans from Glenarden and nearby communities were invited to discuss creating a local American Legion post.
The meeting reflected a shared need for veterans to stay connected after military service, support one another, and build a lasting organization that could serve the wider community. Local leaders recognized that a strong veterans' post could also strengthen civic pride and create a place for fellowship, advocacy, and service.
That effort led to the establishment of American Legion Post 275 in 1954. The post then worked toward permanent recognition, which it pursued through its permanent charter in 1957. The American Legion's official centennial history identifies James D. Cousins III as the post's namesake.
A Legacy of African American Veterans
Post 275 developed within Glenarden, one of Maryland's historically significant African American municipalities. Glenarden was incorporated in 1939 and became one of the state's early predominantly Black incorporated communities. The post's creation reflected the importance of military service, local leadership, and civic participation within this community.
For generations, Post 275 has provided veterans with a place to maintain friendships, advocate for military families, remember the sacrifices of servicemembers, and take part in community activities. Its story is closely tied to Glenarden's own history: a story of Black civic leadership, perseverance, and neighbors working together to build institutions that serve future generations.
Founding Leadership and Early Challenges
First Commander (1954): Roland C. Brownlee
First Adjutant (1954): Legaunt Banks
Permanent charter issued: August 28, 1957
Original meeting location: Glenarden Municipal Hall
During the early 1960s, Post 275 experienced membership difficulties that resulted in the suspension of its charter. However, a major membership campaign in 1965–1966 rebuilt the organization to 49 paid members.
A temporary charter was approved in 1966, and the post applied again for permanent recognition on October 20, 1968. That application was approved, establishing the charter identified in its historical account as No. 23,194.
Continuing the Mission: 1970s to Today
Post 275 continued its commitment to veterans and the Glenarden community.
2018 — POW/MIA Remembrance
The post documented a POW/MIA ceremony on March 1, 2018, reflecting its commitment to remembering missing and captured servicemembers.
2021 — Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The post's amateur radio team, operating as N3TAL, conducted a special two-day radio event recognizing Dr. King and his legacy.
2024 — Supporting Veteran Mental Health
Under Commander Willie Maxent, Post 275 organized a Be the One awareness event focused on preventing veteran suicide and connecting veterans with resources.
Preserving the Legacy
In 2025, a Maryland legislative bond initiative requested $105,000 for improvements to Post 275, including roof replacement and a new air-conditioning system. This was a funding request, not confirmation that the work was completed.
Today, American Legion Post 275 Glenarden is located at 8201 Martin Luther King Jr Hwy, Glenarden, MD 20706, United States.
A History Worth Preserving
From a 1953 meeting called by Mayor Cousins to its establishment in 1954, charter restoration in the 1960s, and continued veteran and community service, Post 275 represents more than seven decades of perseverance, fellowship, and service.
The post's history is particularly meaningful because it connects military service with the civic leadership and heritage of Glenarden.
Post 275 Milestones
1953 — Glenarden Mayor Cousins called a special meeting at Municipal Hall to discuss creating a local American Legion post.
1954 — American Legion Post 275 was established. Roland C. Brownlee served as the first commander, and Legaunt Banks served as the first adjutant.
August 28, 1957 — The post received its permanent charter.
Early 1960s — Membership challenges led to the suspension of the post's charter.
1965–1966 — A membership campaign rebuilt the organization to 49 paid members, leading to approval of a temporary charter in 1966.
October 20, 1968 — Post 275 applied again for permanent recognition. The application was approved, establishing the charter identified in its historical account as No. 23,194.