Is VFW membership declining?

VFW membership is declining due to an aging base, younger veterans finding posts outdated (smoky bars, "old boys' club"), competing veteran groups, and societal shifts, leading to fewer members, less revenue for upkeep, and post closures, though the VFW is trying to modernize with family-friendly events, social media, and increased community involvement to attract newer vets.

Is American Legion losing members?

The American Legion, chartered by Congress in 1919, also has had a significant membership drop as members die and new generations do not replace them in the same numbers. The overall veteran population is falling, which contributes to the decline.

Did the VFW reject Vietnam vets?

Vietnam veterans membership controversy

The VFW initially refused membership for Vietnam War veterans. At the time, most incumbent VFW members were World War II and Korean War veterans.

How many members does the VFW have?

After chapters were formed in Ohio, Colorado and Pennsylvania, the movement quickly gained momentum. Today, membership stands at more than 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary.

Can you go to a VFW if you're not a veteran?

Yes, civilians can often go to VFWs, but usually as guests signed in by a member, though some posts are more public or have social memberships for non-veterans, so it depends on the specific VFW Post's rules, which you can check online or by calling. While full membership requires veteran status, many posts allow non-veterans to attend events or use facilities if accompanied by a member or by purchasing a social membership. 

VFW Membership Grows for First Time in 27 Years!

Is the VFW a good organization?

Ensuring that every donation is used as intended is a top priority, and our dedication to financial transparency has earned us a 3-star rating from Charity Navigator.

Is VFW for profit?

The VFW is a nonprofit veterans service organization comprised of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. Founded in 1899 and chartered by Congress in 1936, we are the nation's largest organization of war veterans and its oldest major veterans organization.

Is 77% unfit to serve?

Nationwide, 77% of youth between the ages of 17 and 24 cannot qualify for the military service.” Mission: Readiness Retired admirals and generals strengthening national security by ensuring kids stay in school, stay fit, and stay out of trouble.

How old is the youngest US WWII veteran?

In 1942, 12-year-old Calvin Graham became the youngest person to serve in World War II. After losing his father young and enduring an abusive stepfather, Calvin decided to join the war effort. He practiced a deep voice, shaved to appear older, and forged his mother's signature to enlist in the Navy.

What did John Lennon say about the Vietnam War?

John Lennon was a prominent anti-war activist against the Vietnam War, using his fame for peace campaigns like the "Bed-Ins" with Yoko Ono, popularizing the anthem "Give Peace a Chance," and running "War Is Over! (If You Want It)" campaigns, which led to scrutiny from the U.S. government. His activism, including protests and songs like "Imagine," made him a target, and the Nixon White House even tried to deport him for his anti-war stance. 

Can I join the VFW if I didn't deploy?

No, you generally cannot join the VFW if you never deployed or served in a qualifying overseas conflict, as VFW eligibility requires honorable service in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil/waters, proven by specific campaign medals, Hostile Fire/Imminent Danger Pay, or 30/60 days in Korea. If you don't qualify for VFW, but have an eligible veteran in your family (parent, spouse, etc.), you might join the VFW Auxiliary, or you might find other veteran organizations like the American Legion more inclusive of non-deployed service. 

What was the most feared unit in Vietnam?

The most feared U.S. unit in Vietnam, known for its covert, high-risk missions behind enemy lines, was MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group), a top-secret special operations force whose operators conducted secret reconnaissance, sabotage, and psychological warfare, earning a fearsome reputation for effectiveness and a legendary kill ratio. While other elite units like Navy SEALs and Green Berets were known, MACV-SOG's secretive nature and deep-strike missions made them especially terrifying to the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) and Viet Cong. 

Does a DD 214 mean you are a veteran?

But having a DD214 form doesn't automatically mean you are a veteran! What is truly bothersome is that people who have served but don't qualify as a veteran can request a DD214.

Who is the oldest WWII veteran still alive?

The oldest verified WWII veteran is generally considered to be Ilie Ciocan, a Romanian veteran who was 112 years and 207 days old as of early January 2026, though records vary slightly, with Eugene Baltes (US, 110 in late 2024) and Moses Eldridge (US, 108 in mid-2025) noted as very old survivors in America. Finding the single absolute oldest is difficult, but these individuals represent the upper ages among WWII veterans globally, with many centenarians still living.
 

Can you be kicked out of The American Legion?

A Post may suspend or expel a Post member from The American Legion only after providing the member due process and a proper showing of cause. Charges shall be based upon disloyalty, neglect of duty, dishonesty and/or conduct unbecoming a member of The American Legion.

What is the minimum IQ for the U.S. Army?

The reason the U.S. Army requires a minimum IQ of 83 is perfectly captured in the book "McNamara's Folly: The Use of Low-IQ Troops in the Vietnam War." The cohort routinely struggled to point and aim a rifle, throw a grenade and tie their boots to basic standards.

Do they give you $10,000 if you join the Army?

You could earn up to $10,000 just for reporting to Basic Training within 30 days of enlistment for certain in-demand jobs. This bonus can be combined with other enlistment bonuses to earn up to $50,000.

What is the new 540 rule in the Army?

In March 2023, the Army issued Directive 2023-08, creating a performance-based exemption: soldiers who scored 540 or higher on the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), with at least 80 points in each event, no longer had to undergo circumference taping if they were determined to be overweight.

Why did VFW reject Vietnam vets?

Posts were divided with some not accepting Vietnam War vets. Vietnam War veterans refused to join the VFW because of its support for the Vietnam War and the vets of the new-age generation with its counter-culture perspective that fought in an unpopular war.

Can a civilian drink at a VFW?

Yes any member can bring in 3 guests, your guests must be signed in and the member is totally responsible for their guests. Guests must leave when the member leaves. Guest can not at any point approach the bar or purchase alcohol.

Why do people join VFW?

Access to a vast network of resources. Assistance securing the benefits you've earned. Numerous discounts on a number of products and services. With a VFW membership, you'll find all this and more!

How much does the CEO of Paralyzed Veterans of America make?

The CEO (Executive Director) of Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), William Blake, received around $281,949 in total compensation for the 2023 fiscal year, based on Form 990 data, while other reports show his compensation around $237,659 in 2021 and ~$252,327 in 2022, with total compensation figures sometimes including benefits, but these numbers reflect salaries for top executives at the large non-profit. 

Which veterans charity is most reputable?

Homes For Our Troops receives the highest possible rating of 4 stars from Charity Navigator and has an A rating with Charity Watch. Additionally, HFOT is a platinum-level Guidestar participant, demonstrating its commitment to transparency, and meets all 20 criteria of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance.