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

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Department of Pennsylvania, is a part of the nationwide Veterans of Foreign Wars organization, which is dedicated to U.S. war veterans who have fought in wars, campaigns, and expeditions on foreign land, waters, or airspace. The VFW has its roots dating back to 1899, when veterans of the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection formed local organizations to seek better medical care and pension rights for veterans.

History

The VFW’s origins trace back to several independent organizations formed by veterans of different conflicts:

• American Veterans of Foreign Service was established in Columbus, Ohio, in 1899.
• Colorado Society, Army of the Philippines was organized in Denver, Colorado, in December 1899.
• In Pennsylvania, the Philippine War Veterans were formed in both Pittsburgh and Altoona, while the American Veterans of Philippine and China Wars were established in Philadelphia.

These groups eventually merged, with the final name change to Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States occurring in 1913. The name was formally adopted in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1914.

Purpose and Activities

The VFW's purpose is multifaceted, focusing on:

• Camaraderie: Fostering association among U.S. veterans of overseas conflicts.
• Veteran Support: Advocating for veterans' rights, ensuring they receive earned entitlements, and providing support for both veterans and their families.
• Community Service: Engaging in local community service and promoting patriotism through educational programs.

The organization has been instrumental in various legislative efforts, including the development of the GI Bill and the Veterans Administration. It continues to support veteran-related causes and memorial projects across the U.S.

Membership and Structure

The VFW is open to eligible veterans and military service members from the active, guard, and reserve forces. Membership includes veterans who served in foreign conflicts, their dependents, and supporters.

The organization is divided into departments at the state level, with the Department of Pennsylvania being one of these. The national organization is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, and has been federally chartered since 1936.

Impact

The VFW plays a significant role in advocating for veterans' welfare, participating in charitable activities, and promoting patriotic values. Through its departments across the U.S., including Pennsylvania, the organization continues to support community service initiatives and spearhead legislation benefiting veterans nationwide.