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

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Department of Wisconsin (VFW-WI), is a state-level organization within the larger U.S. national veterans' service organization, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. The VFW-WI operates under the umbrella of the national VFW, which was formally established on September 29, 1899, in Columbus, Ohio. The VFW's primary mission is to foster camaraderie among veterans, serve those veterans and their communities, and advocate on behalf of all veterans.

History and Purpose

The VFW itself was formed by veterans of the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection. These veterans banded together to secure rights and benefits for their service, as there was no medical care or veterans' pension at the time. The movement gained momentum as chapters were formed in Ohio, Colorado, and Pennsylvania, eventually spreading across the U.S. Including Wisconsin, where local posts like Burns Post 388 in Wausau, Wisconsin, have played pivotal roles in forming auxiliaries and supporting veterans and their families.

Organization and Activities

The VFW-WI is part of a broader organization that includes over 1.4 million members and its auxiliary. The national organization is known for its legislative advocacy and community service. At the state level, the VFW-WI works closely with other Wisconsin veterans' organizations to ensure that veterans receive the benefits and support they are entitled to. This includes economic and education assistance, which is also a focus of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA), though the VFW-WI operates independently of state government.

Departmental Structure

The VFW-WI is structured similarly to the national organization, with local posts that organize community events, provide veteran support, and participate in patriotic activities. These local efforts are coordinated at the state level to ensure a unified approach to veteran advocacy and support.

Advocacy and Community Service

The VFW-WI participates in and supports national initiatives such as the Veterans Administration, national cemetery systems, and advocacy for specific veterans' rights, including compensation for veterans exposed to Agent Orange and Gulf War Syndrome. Locally, members engage in community service, support for families of veterans, and promote Americanism through educational programs.