The American Legion recently welcomed Post 295 as a new chapter, comprised solely of incarcerated veterans at CoreCivic's South Central Correctional Center in Clifton, Tennessee.

Post 295—South Central Incarcerated Veterans, which officially charted on August 4, 2025, currently operates with 17 chartered members, each of whom hold an elected leadership position. Post 295 is the first active post within the Tennessee Department of Correction system.

Like all other American Legion Chapters, Post 295 is held to the same standards and structure, requiring leadership roles to be filled, annual membership dues paid, membership meetings held, and efforts made to support the local community.

Under the guidance of South Central Case Manager Renee Lutz, an American Legion Post 130—Waynesboro member and military veteran who served eight years in the U.S. Army, the post held its first official meeting on September 24 this year, complete with a color guard presentation, a powerful symbol of respect and camaraderie. Members have already engaged in meaningful activities, including crochet donations and leatherworking.

"It is very important not just to those who have served in the military, but for everyone to remember that no matter what these gentlemen may have done to require their stay in prison, they were still willing to put their lives on the line for our country and should be afforded the respect earned," said Lutz. "A three-year-long journey to be granted this American Legion membership was undertaken by staff to provide these new Legionnaires with the tools needed to remember their missions as veterans. Much like the world outside of prison, members of the military expect themselves to lead by example and to mentor people around them."

To support their efforts, the facility has arranged for outside donations to be accepted through a dedicated bank account. Every dollar raised by Post 295 will benefit its chosen philanthropy, the Butterfly Foundation, a Waynesboro, Tennessee-based organization focused on supporting children and their families impacted by a cancer diagnosis.

Members of Post 295 will wear distinct uniforms that feature their American Legion association, including the signature American Legion hat embroidered with their city, state, and post number.

"Within the prison walls, it is even more necessary to show the leadership needed to show other residents a different way of conducting themselves despite their circumstances," said Lutz. "We have seen a sense of self-worth return to these gentlemen that is absolutely needed not only for their stay here, but for when they return to society."

The post's mission statement, developed by its members, captures the aim of this unique chapter.

Serving each other, our brothers and sisters, our families, and our communities while serving our time.

Post 295 is redefining service—proving that even within the confines of incarceration, U.S. veterans find a way to carry out duty, honor, and devotion to their communities and country.