Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of Oklahoma

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of Oklahoma is part of a larger national organization known as the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW). The VFW is a nonprofit veterans service organization composed of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, guard, and reserve forces[2][4].

Overview

The VFW is established with the purpose of fostering camaraderie among United States veterans of overseas conflicts, serving veterans, the military, and their communities, and advocating on behalf of all veterans[2]. The organization was founded in 1899 by veterans of the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection, with its national headquarters located in Kansas City, Missouri[3].

Purpose and Activities

The VFW focuses on supporting veterans through various programs and services, including legislative advocacy to ensure veterans receive their earned entitlements and recognition for their sacrifices[2]. The organization has been instrumental in several key legislative victories, such as the development of the GI Bill for the 21st Century and the Veterans Access and Accountability Act of 2014[2].

Membership and Reach

While specific details about the Oklahoma Department's membership are not provided here, the national VFW boasts over 1.4 million members across the United States[1][2]. The VFW has a significant presence at both state and local levels, with departments like Oklahoma contributing to the organization's broader mission.

Notable Efforts

The VFW is known for its role in establishing the Veterans Administration and advocating for issues such as compensation for Vietnam vets exposed to Agent Orange and veterans with Gulf War Syndrome[2]. Additionally, the VFW supports the construction of memorials, including the Vietnam, Korean War, World War II, and Women in Military Service memorials[2].

Tax Status

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of Oklahoma operates as a tax-exempt organization under the Internal Revenue Code, with its Employer Identification Number (EIN) being 237389595. This aligns with the VFW's broader structure as a 501(c)(19) war veterans' organization[3].

Relationship to the National Organization

As part of the national VFW, the Oklahoma Department works to fulfill the organization's mission locally by engaging in community service, hosting events, and supporting veterans within the state. This includes participating in national campaigns, such as advocating for military veterans' rights and providing support services to families of veterans.

Conclusion

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of Oklahoma is an integral part of the national organization's efforts to honor and support military veterans. Through its participation in advocacy, community engagement, and veteran support activities, it helps ensure that veterans receive the recognition and care they deserve.