Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of South Dakota

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of South Dakota is a state-level division of the national Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organization, operating within South Dakota. The VFW, a nonprofit veterans service organization, is dedicated to serving U.S. war veterans who have fought in foreign conflicts, as well as their families and communities.

History and Purpose

Established on the foundation of the national organization, which was founded in 1899, the VFW's South Dakota department supports and welcomes veterans from a wide range of conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and more recent engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq. The organization aims to foster camaraderie among veterans, provide support services, and advocate for their interests at both state and national levels.

Programs and Initiatives

The South Dakota VFW is involved in various programs aimed at promoting patriotism and supporting local communities. It focuses on creating fellowship and leadership opportunities, particularly for youth through initiatives like VFW Baseball, which is one of the few states to conduct this program. Additionally, the organization supports veterans dealing with PTSD and other post-service challenges by connecting them with peers who have shared similar experiences.

Advocacy and Impact

The VFW, including its South Dakota department, plays a significant role in advocating for veterans' rights and benefits. Nationally, the VFW has been instrumental in pushing for legislation that improves services for veterans, including the development of the Veterans Administration and the creation of national memorials. Locally, the South Dakota department continues this mission by supporting state-specific initiatives and advocating for South Dakota veterans within the broader VFW framework.

EIN and Tax Status

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of South Dakota operates under EIN 46-0229-000, classified as a 501(c)(19) organization, which denotes it as a war veterans' organization. This status reflects the organization's nonprofit nature and its commitment to serving veterans and their families across South Dakota.