Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Department of Washington

Overview

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Department of Washington, is a part of the larger Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organization. The VFW is a nonprofit veterans service organization that focuses on supporting veterans and advocating on their behalf.

Parent Organization

The parent organization, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, was established on August 1, 1914, following the merger of several national war-veteran societies founded in 1899. These societies were primarily composed of veterans from the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection. The VFW is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, and operates as a 501(c)(19) organization.

Mission and Purpose

The mission of the VFW is to foster camaraderie among U.S. veterans of overseas conflicts, to serve veterans, the military, and communities, and to advocate on behalf of all veterans. The organization ensures that veterans are respected for their service, receive their earned entitlements, and are recognized for the sacrifices they and their loved ones have made.

Programs and Activities

The VFW has been instrumental in several legislative victories, including the establishment of the Veterans Administration, the development of the national cemetery system, and the fight for compensation for veterans exposed to Agent Orange and those with Gulf War Syndrome. The organization also supports memorials to honor veterans and offers various programs and services to support service members and their families.

Department of Washington

The Department of Washington is one of many state-level departments within the VFW structure. Each department is responsible for implementing the national mission at the local level, providing support for veterans in their respective regions, and overseeing the activities of posts within their jurisdiction.

Membership and Eligibility

Membership in the VFW is open to U.S. citizens who have served in the armed forces and have been honorably discharged or are currently serving. Eligibility also requires service in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or in hostile waters. The Department of Washington, like other departments, works to recruit and serve eligible veterans, promoting camaraderie and advocating for veterans' rights.

Financial Information

The VFW as a whole is financially supported through donations, membership dues, and other fundraising activities. Local departments and posts often engage in community events and charitable initiatives to support local veterans.

Conclusion

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Department of Washington, plays a vital role in supporting veterans and their families within the state of Washington. By adhering to the VFW's national mission and values, the Department of Washington continues to advocate for veterans' rights and provide essential services to those who have served overseas.