There are two major veteran organizations that exist in the United States. These organizations are the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Both of these organizations are nonprofit entities that exist to benefit veterans of the United States Armed Forces. However, even though they share some common goals and objectives, they also have some differences that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between the American Legion and VFW in detail.
American Legion:
The American Legion is an organization that is dedicated to serving veterans of the United States Armed Forces, as well as the community. It was founded in 1919, with the aim of providing support to veterans, promoting patriotism, and preventing the spread of communism. The organization grew rapidly and now has over 3 million members throughout the United States.
The American Legion is focused on advocating for veterans’ rights and benefits, as well as promoting the values of democracy and citizenship. It also provides a variety of services and programs to veterans, such as education, employment, healthcare, and housing.
One of the key differences between the American Legion and VFW is the eligibility requirements to become a member. In order to join the American Legion, you must have served in the military during a time of war or conflict, or have received an honorable discharge from the United States Armed Forces. This means that eligibility requirements are more stringent for the American Legion as compared to the VFW.
The American Legion has a number of programs and initiatives that it supports, including the Boys State and Girls State program. This program is designed to help young people develop leadership skills, as well as learn more about the principles and values of American democracy.
Another key initiative of the American Legion is the American Legion Riders program. The program is a motorcycle enthusiast group made up of military veterans who ride to promote patriotism, while also supporting different charities, such as local VA hospitals and homeless shelters.
Veterans of Foreign Wars:
The Veterans of Foreign Wars, also known as the VFW, is another organization that is dedicated to serving veterans of the United States Armed Forces. The VFW was founded in 1899, with the aim of providing support to veterans who had served in foreign wars or conflicts.
The VFW is an organization that advocates for veterans’ rights, provides resources and services, and also promotes programs aimed at community support. One of the key differences between the VFW and the American Legion is the eligibility requirements to become a member. In order to join the VFW, you must have served in a foreign conflict or war. Eligibility requirements are more relaxed as compared to the American Legion.
The VFW also provides a variety of services and programs to its members, such as assistance with VA claims, providing scholarships for education, and support for family members of veterans. The VFW also advocates for legislation and policies that benefit veterans, and assist veterans in accessing government programs, benefits, and services.
The VFW also has several programs and initiatives that it supports, including the VFW Buddy Poppy program. This program is a fundraiser that helps to raise funds to support veterans and their families. The funds raised are used to provide assistance and support for veterans, as well as their families.
Another key initiative of the VFW is the VFW National home for Children. This program provides a place for the children of veterans who have lost their lives, have been injured or disabled, or are unable to care for them for any reason.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, both the American Legion and VFW are organizations are dedicated to serving veterans of the United States Armed Forces, as well as promoting patriotism, and advocating for the valor of military service to protect freedom. Both organizations provide a variety of services and programs to their members, as well as promoting initiatives aimed at community support. However, there are some differences between the two organizations, specifically when it comes to the eligibility requirements for membership.
The American Legion is aimed at serving veterans of war or conflict, while the VFW is focused on foreign service and veterans of foreign wars. Despite these differences, both organizations are focused on serving the needs and interests of veterans, while promoting patriotism in a variety of ways. Therefore, if you are a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, join the organization that fits more with the service in which you have experienced, supporting the values of truth and liberty expressed by the nation.