Catholic War Veterans of the United States of America, Inc.

Overview

The Catholic War Veterans of the United States of America, Inc. (CWV) is a nonprofit organization founded on May 19, 1935, in the State of New York. It was established primarily to support military veterans and their families, while emphasizing Catholic values and principles. The CWV has been recognized for its unique blend of faith and service, advocating for veterans' welfare and promoting community development.

History

The CWV's inception was motivated by Reverend Edward J. Higgins, a former Army chaplain, who responded to Pope Pius XI's call to address the increasing threats to Christianity. Higgins traveled to Rome in May 1935 to secure the Pope's blessing for the organization, which he received along with a private audience. The organization officially became a Veterans Service Organization in July 1940 and received a Congressional Charter on August 17, 1984, under President Ronald Reagan[1][2].

Mission and Activities

The CWV's mission focuses on providing support to all military veterans and their families, regardless of religious affiliation. It operates in the gap between secular veterans' organizations and general religious charities, offering a wide range of charitable programs and community services. Activities include advocating for veterans, organizing educational scholarships, participating in commemorative events, and engaging in community initiatives such as food drives and shelter volunteer work[2][3].

Membership and Auxiliary

Membership in the CWV is open to baptized Catholics who have served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces for at least 90 days. The CWV Auxiliary, initially known as the Ladies Auxiliary, was the first of its kind to open membership to men. It is available to relatives within two degrees of any veteran or active-duty member, regardless of faith[1][3].

Recognition and Impact

The CWV holds a distinctive position among Veterans Service Organizations for receiving both the Apostolic Blessing of Pope Pius XI at its founding and a Congressional Charter. It is one of only three U.S. Veterans Service Organizations with a distinctly religious membership to be chartered by Congress[2]. Through its actions and initiatives, the CWV exemplifies a commitment to Catholic values, patriotism, and community service.

Legal Status

The CWV is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization. Its primary mission is to support veterans and their families through various charitable activities and advocacy efforts[2].

[1] http://cwvohio.org/about-us/ [2] https://thecwv.org/about-cwv/ [3] https://thecwv.org [4] http://www.cwvpost1974.com/about.html [5] https://cwvpost370.com/national-cwv