Who can join the veterans of foreign wars?

Who Can Join the Veterans of Foreign Wars?

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is a nonprofit veterans’ organization that was founded in 1899 to support and advocate for those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The organization has a long history of providing assistance to veterans, their families, and communities, and is dedicated to promoting patriotism and national security.

Eligibility Requirements

To join the VFW, an individual must meet certain eligibility requirements. The main requirements are:

• Honorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard)
• Served in a foreign war, insurrection, or expedition (including peacetime service)
• Served for a minimum of 90 days of active duty (except for Vietnam-era veterans, who only need to have served 60 days)

Foreign Wars and Conflicts

The VFW recognizes the following foreign wars and conflicts as qualifying service:

• World War I (1917-1918)
• World War II (1941-1945)
• Korean War (1950-1953)
• Vietnam War (1955-1975)
Check out the 50 Cheapest Guns Now


• Lebanon and Grenada (1982-1984)
• Operation Desert Storm (1990-1991)
• Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2011)
• Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-2014)
• Operation Inherent Resolve (2014-present)

Types of Service

In addition to combat service, the VFW also recognizes the following types of service as qualifying:

• Service in a foreign area, such as:

  • Peacekeeping missions, such as those in Somalia, Bosnia, and Kosovo
  • Humanitarian missions, such as those in Haiti and Rwanda
  • Security missions, such as those in the Balkans and the Middle East

• Service in a military hospital or medical unit in a foreign area
• Service in a military unit that was attached to or supported a unit that served in a foreign war or conflict

Special Circumstances

There are some special circumstances that may affect an individual’s eligibility to join the VFW:

• Vietnam-era veterans who served for 60 days or more are eligible to join the VFW
• Cold War veterans who served from 1945-1991 may be eligible to join the VFW if they served in a foreign area or in a military unit that was attached to or supported a unit that served in a foreign war or conflict
• Gold Star families (those who have lost a loved one in service) may be eligible to join the VFW

Application Process

To apply to join the VFW, an individual must submit an application and provide documentation of their military service. The application process typically involves the following steps:

1. Complete the application form: The VFW provides a downloadable application form that can be completed online or printed and mailed.
2. Gather documentation: The individual must gather documentation of their military service, including their DD Form 214 (discharge paperwork) and any other relevant documents.
3. Submit the application and documentation: The individual can submit the application and documentation online or by mail to the VFW.
4. Wait for verification: The VFW will verify the individual’s military service and contact them to confirm their eligibility.

Conclusion

The Veterans of Foreign Wars is a prestigious and respected organization that provides a sense of community and camaraderie for those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. By joining the VFW, individuals can connect with fellow veterans, participate in charitable activities, and advocate for the rights and benefits of veterans. If you believe you are eligible to join the VFW, we encourage you to apply and become a part of this esteemed organization.

Table: Eligibility Requirements

Table: Foreign Wars and Conflicts