– our history & beliefs –
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
No One Does More For Veterans
Foundation
Our Beginnings
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) is a nonprofit veterans service organization comprised of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, guard and reserve forces. The VFW traces our roots back to 1899 when veterans of the Spanish-American War (1898) and the Philippine Insurrection (1899-1902) founded local organizations to secure rights and benefits for their service.
Our Emblem
Cross of Malta
The Cross of Malta is VFW’s emblem. The cross can trace its lineage back to the Crusades and the first brotherhood of warriors called the Knights of St. John. The knights represented all walks of life, but were united by a solemn pledge of unwavering courage and compassion. While they fought in numerous battles, they continued ministering to the sick, needy and poor.
Locations
Find a Post
With thousands of posts worldwide, there is likely one near you. https://www.vfw.org/find-a-post
Assistance
Assistance
Claims, Grants, & Support Youth, Community, Troop Support
The VFW offers a wide range of assistance programs aimed at helping veterans of every generation. Whether that means providing free, professional help filing or appealing a VA claim, offering scholarships for post-secondary education or providing emergency financial relief when times get tough, the VFW is there for America’s veterans.
VFW Assistance: https://www.vfw.org/assistance
Join our Ranks
Membership
We understand the unique bond you share with other veterans of overseas conflicts because we, too, have been there. Since 1899, the VFW has been the nation’s leading veterans service organization in the fight to better the lives of all those who’ve worn the uniform of the United States military. No matter which conflict called you to service, we invite you to join us. Stand strong with the more than 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary as together, we continue to fight for all that’s good FOR VETERANS.
VFW Eligibility: https://www.vfw.org/join/eligibility
VFW Benefits: https://www.vfw.org/join/member-benefits
Renew: https://oms.vfw.org/quickrenew.aspx
VFW Auxiliary: https://vfwauxiliary.org/join-us/
Core Values
Our Guiding Principles
- Always put the interests of our members first
- Treat donors as partners in our cause
- Promote patriotism
- Honor military service
- Ensure the care of veterans and their families
- Serve our communities
- Promote a positive image of the VFW
- Respect the diversity of veteran opinions
Our Mission
Camaraderie, Service & Advocacy
To foster camaraderie among United States veterans of overseas conflicts. To serve our veterans, the military and our communities. To advocate on behalf of all veterans.
Community
#stillserving
Claims, Grants, & Support
The true character of America is measured by her communities and the people who work to improve them. Whether at a national level or in their own backyards, our members dedicate millions of hours each year working to spread patriotism and honor our nation’s heroes. Here’s how you can get involved.
VFW Community: https://www.vfw.org/community
Our Impact
Legislative Accomplishments
The VFW voice was instrumental in establishing the Veterans Administration, development of the National Cemetery System, in the fight for compensation for Vietnam vets exposed to Agent Orange and for veterans diagnosed with Gulf War Syndrome. In 2008, the VFW won a long-fought victory with the passing of a GI Bill for the 21st Century, giving expanded educational benefits to America’s active duty service members, and members of the guard and reserves, fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. Again, the VFW was the driving force behind the Veterans Access and Accountability Act of 2014, and continually fight for improved VA medical centers services for women veterans.
Besides helping fund the creation of the Vietnam, Korean War, World War II and Women in Military Service memorials, in 2005, the VFW became the first veterans’ organization to contribute to building the new Disabled Veterans for Life Memorial, which opened in November 2010. And in 2015, we became the first supporter of the National Desert Storm War Memorial which is planned for construction at our nation’s capital.
Most recently, and perhaps the largest health care and benefit expansion in VA history, The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act.
VFW Advocacy: https://www.vfw.org/advocacy