Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Delaware

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Delaware (VFW Department of Delaware) is a state-level division of the national Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organization. The VFW, established in 1899, is a nonprofit veterans service organization dedicated to fostering camaraderie and advocating for veterans' rights and welfare.

Mission and Activities

The VFW Department of Delaware shares the national mission of promoting comradeship among veterans who have served overseas and advocating for their rights. It supports local veterans through various community activities and charity work, aligning with the broader VFW goals of serving veterans and promoting patriotism.

History

The VFW traces its origins back to the late 19th century, with its foundation rooted in efforts to support veterans of the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection. In Delaware, the establishment of local VFW posts reflects a similar desire among veterans to build a supportive community, particularly evident in the founding of VFW Post 7234 in Sussex County, which was established by World War I and World War II veterans in the mid-1940s[1].

Structure

The VFW Department of Delaware operates as part of the larger VFW structure, which is organized into state departments and local posts. The national VFW has over 1.4 million members, including those from the VFW Auxiliary, which supports the work of the posts[4].

Advocacy and Community Work

Like other VFW departments, the Delaware chapter focuses on advocacy, legislative work, and community service. It supports national initiatives aimed at improving benefits for veterans, enhancing healthcare services, and constructing memorials to honor military service[4]. Locally, it partners with other veterans' organizations and state bodies, such as the Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs, to address veterans' needs and improve policies affecting them[5].

Key Projects and Contributions

The VFW Department of Delaware contributes to various national and local projects, including lobbying for veterans' benefits and participating in community events that raise awareness about veterans' issues. While specific projects may vary, the department aligns with broader VFW efforts, such as supporting memorial construction and advocating for improved healthcare services for veterans[4].

[1] http://www.vfw7234.com/posthistory22.pdf [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veterans_of_Foreign_Wars [3] https://www.delgazette.com/2020/11/12/history-behind-veterans-of-foreign-wars/ [4] https://www.vfw.org/about-us [5] https://vets.delaware.gov/dcva/