The question that I sometimes get from non-members is “What are the eligibility requirements for membership?” So let’s look at those requirements of membership eligibility.
In accordance with the Constitution of La Societe des 40 Hommes et 8 Chevaux, Article IV, section 1, “WHO MAY BECOME MEMBERS. No persons, other than honorably discharged U.S. military personnel, and active duty U. S. military, may become members of La Societe des Quarante Hommes et Huit Chevaux. No Grande Voiture, or Voiture Locale, may prescribe, or establish, any eligibility qualifications for membership in La Societe which are in conflict with the Constitution of Voiture Nationale.”
Article IV is quite explicit about who can be a member. There are no if, ands or buts about it. You cannot discriminate based upon gender or race. Also, did you notice there is no requirement to be a member of the American Legion? Also, there are no service periods that you must have served during to be eligible for membership.
Article V, section 1 forbids Honorary Membership in La Societe. You are either eligible or you’re not. Period! Section 6 of Article V describes the requirements for nomination for membership. This section outlines, in detail, requirements for membership.
What I am asking of you is, that we as the leaders of La Societe, read the Constitution of La Societe 40 Hommes et 8 Chevaux especially Articles 1 through 5 and then make absolutely sure that our members know, and understand, the eligibility requirements for membership.
Should you have any questions, or comments about this article, or would like copies of the Constitution Articles that I referenced, please feel free to email me at joestory@charter.net or call me at 715-966-0261.
For god and country and comrades,
Joseph Story
Directeur Membership-Nationale