As yesterday's defenders of freedom, we want to welcome today's military service members into our ranks to become part of our elite group. Our common bond is the battlefield, whether it is service in the Persian Gulf, Korea, Kosovo, the Global War on Terrorism or peace-keeping expeditionary campaigns. Your courage and sacrifice have made a difference in preserving and defending world peace.
To qualify for membership in the VFW, you must meet the following two requirements:
1: Honorable Service – must have served in the Armed Forces of the United States and either received a discharge of Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) or be currently serving.
2: Service in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or in hostile waters*. This can be proven by any of the following:
- An authorized campaign medal (see a full list of qualifying medals and badges) - Receipt of Hostile Fire Pay or Imminent Danger Pay (verified by a military pay statement) - Service in Korea for 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days
*This information is usually available through a veteran’s DD-214. If other information is needed or if a veteran’s DD-214 is not complete, they cancontact the National Personnel Records Center onlineor at 314.801.0800 to request more information.
More detailed information on VFW eligibility can be accessed here.
If you are not eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars but you have a parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, sibling, or spouse who would be eligible then you may apply for membership in the VFW Auxiliary. You can learn more at vfwauxiliary.org.
Annual Membership: Membership dues and prices are dictated by individual VFW Posts. For more details, you can find your local VFW Post on FIND-A-PAGE. to get connected to a Post in your area.
Life Membership - Life Membership fees range based on the age of applicant.
The VFW appreciates your service, and so do patriotic businesses across the country. That's why we've teamed up to offer you -as a VFW member- and your family discounted pricing on valuable merchandise and services. It's just one more way we're able to say, "thank you" for all you've done to protect our freedom!
