Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of Ohio

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of Ohio is a state-level department of the national Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organization. The VFW is a nonprofit veterans service organization with roots dating back to 1899, when it was founded by veterans of the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection in Columbus, Ohio.

History and Purpose

The VFW was established to support veterans, their families, and communities, with a focus on fostering camaraderie among veterans of overseas conflicts. The organization is dedicated to serving veterans, the military, and communities while advocating for veteran rights and benefits. The Ohio Department works within this framework, focusing on supporting local veterans and their families.

Activities and Programs

Like the national organization, the Ohio Department of the VFW is involved in various activities aimed at assisting veterans. This includes charitable work, advocacy for veterans' rights, and support for local community programs. The VFW of Ohio Charities, established in 2003, plays a significant role in fundraising and distributing charitable funds to assist needy veterans in Ohio, support food banks, schools, and homeless programs.

Structure and Membership

The VFW Department of Ohio operates as part of the larger VFW structure, with eligibility for membership requiring honorable service in the U.S. Armed Forces and participation in a foreign war, campaign, or expedition. The Ohio Department is one of many state-level departments that contribute to the national organization's mission and membership base.

Contributions

The VFW, including its Ohio Department, has been instrumental in influencing significant veterans legislation, supporting national memorials, and promoting Americanism through educational programs. The organization's efforts have contributed to major achievements in veterans' rights and benefits over the decades.