I just became a lifetime member. Just wondering what experiences others have had to make it worthwhile.

I was a member. Joined right after my first tour in Iraq (03-04). The VFW post I went to was full of bitter, chain smoking guys and girls. I had to go to each one to introduce myself. No one came to me.

The first meeting I attended, I was "sworn in" and that was it. No congrats. No handshake. Nothing.

I never went back.

One of the Vet sites on FB had a good discussion going about the older members of many VFW posts not welcoming in Iraq and Afghanistan veterans very easily. Some posts were different but it appears quite a few did not give such a warm welcome.

Kind of makes you wonder if there was a similar issue with GAR vets and how to dealt with those returning from the Spanish American war that led to the creation of the VFW.

Here is a post by the National Commander, on their website.

http://www.vfw.org/News-and-Events/Articles/2014-Articles/VFW-NATIONAL-COMMANDER-PUTS-POSTS-ON-NOTICE/

quote:

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VFW NATIONAL COMMANDER PUTS POSTS ON NOTICE
THE FOLLOWING IS A MESSAGE FROM VFW NATIONAL COMMANDER JOHN W. STROUD
November 06, 2014

I am extremely disturbed by the recurring reports from the field as well as the media's portrayal of the VFW as an organization that is comprised of old and out of touch veterans who would rather drink in a dimly lit canteen than open their doors to our younger veterans. The VFW's mission is far too important; our objectives and causes for which we work far too critical; and the current situation of the veteran population far too dire to let the negativity of a few divide us and dilute our efforts. We must empower the younger veterans to be forces of change within our organization while lending them the institutional knowledge to be effective leaders for future generations of veterans.

The fact remains that the stereotypical, dingy, dark and smoke filled VFW Post and canteen do exist, but they have no benefit to our organization, provide no aid to our mission nor to the veterans we strive to help and serve. These Posts are in the minority of our organization, but in order to shift the paradigm we must challenge every member to hold their Post accountable. It's time for our membership to be emboldened into action and to push their Posts to strive for the high ideals that the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States was founded upon.

Accordingly, I am charging my current Department VFW Commanders to be advocates of change and to challenge the officers of the subordinate units within their command to be more than officers challenge them to be leaders cognizant of the current challenges today's veterans face. To do this, our VFW Posts must change their operational tactics to better reflect the modern crises younger veterans are facing on their new "battlefield" the homefront.

For those members and Posts who would rather serve themselves than the countless veterans who are in need, remind them that this organization exists for the benefit of all veterans rather than those of an entitled few. I want to make it clear that I will willingly provide my complete support to any of my Department Commanders who move to shut down any Post, or remove from our leadership rolls, anyone that is not committed to the goals of the organization. They simply don't belong here. The need is too great for a dynamic and modern VFW that can continue to advocate and respond unhesitatingly to the needs of all veterans in the 21st century and beyond. To do less, would be an unconscionable betrayal of our responsibilities as Americans and as veterans.

John W. Stroud
VFW National Commander

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No disrespect to the VFW, they've done some good work for vets in their time, but they're increasingly out of touch with modern veterans.

They've lagged far behind current era veterans organizations like Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and Student Veterans of America (SVA), both in community building and in legislative action.

If you're looking to connect with other veterans I highly recommend checking out IAVA. They have an excellent online community as well as monthly "VetTogethers" all around the country. They also sponsor and connect veterans with events like concerts, sporting events, and charity days.

A lot of current era vets are also more interested in giving back, rather than sitting around in VFW halls. Groups like Team Rubicon, The Mission Continues, and Wounded Warrior Project are all great opportunities for veterans to come together for service projects regularly.

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America
Team Rubicon
The Mission Continues

Thanks for the feedback.

I went to the fish fry at my local post last week and i was welcomed by a pretty good number of people. The post commander was especially excited to have some young blood there.

However i did notice a few of the older guys looking at me like, who the eff is this guy...

Overall it was a decent experience.

Invited but declined to join. Just doesn't seem like my thing. I've been to a couple of post for business / civic presentations -- CANNOT stand the smoke. It was everywhere. Will not go back.

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VFW as an organization that is comprised of old and out of touch veterans who would rather drink in a dimly lit canteen than open their
doors to our younger veterans.

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If the VFW Post shut down the bars, the organization would fold.

When I was discharged after Vietnam, I was looking for an organization to help me deal with the Veterans Administration.

I was helped the most by the DAV and the Texas Veterans Commission. I am very grateful for both of those organizations.

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Invited but declined to join. Just doesn't seem like my thing. I've been to a couple of post for business / civic presentations -- CANNOT stand the smoke. It was everywhere. Will not go back.

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A new vfw was built a few years ago in my hometown. The new commander, an oif veteran, instituted a no smoking policy in the new one. Pissed off a lot of the old folks. Ive hung out in there a few times. A bunch of old salts in there. Once we got pass the initial interrogation phase I enjoyed myself in there.

Case by case. I have been to great ones & terrible ones. On the whole I like mine.

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Invited but declined to join. Just doesn't seem like my thing. I've been to a couple of post for business / civic presentations -- CANNOT stand the smoke. It was everywhere. Will not go back.

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A new vfw was built a few years ago in my hometown. The new commander, an oif veteran, instituted a no smoking policy in the new one. Pissed off a lot of the old folks. Ive hung out in there a few times. A bunch of old salts in there. Once we got pass the initial interrogation phase I enjoyed myself in there.

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I asked my dad why he never joined the VFW. He was a Vietnam Vet and retired Army Chaplain and Southern Baptist Preacher. He said that the VFW was just an excuse for old NCOs to get together and fight. LOL

He wasn't a drinker.

Add Team Red, White and Blue to the list of great opportunities for veterans. It is a veterans group focused on fitness and sport, and has a goal of reintegrating military folks with civilian society, rather than insulating them from society. While booze may or may not be present at events, the goal is for community, athletic accomplishment, and working towards goals to help heal the wounds of war, rather than medicine from a bottle.

How about the post here in B/CS? Anyone been there before? I was thinking of heading over there when I have more time. I've never been to one and have no idea what's up. Do you just walk in and go straight to the Bar and get hammered? This is first thought.

I did read recently that the one in Bryan was raided by federal and state agents due to the morons of the republic of Texas issuing a subpoena to a state judge.

Evidently they're members of the Bryan vfw and feel they have the power to subpoena. Lol

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I did read recently that the one in Bryan was raided by federal and state agents due to the morons of the republic of Texas issuing a subpoena to a state judge.

Evidently they're members of the Bryan vfw and feel they have the power to subpoena. Lol

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This is what happens when you give a bunch of E-3's a bar, too much free time, and a pen.

Like any organization it is hit and miss when it comes to one's experience at the VFW. I joined when I got out in 2005 and went back to A&M to finish my degree, the local one wasn't too bad. Tried the one here in Florida a couple of times but it was too far from the house and it was always the same old depressing people. Since then I joined the AMVETS post and like it a lot better. The first year or two they kept pressing me to take on a leadership position but that isn't my thing. I just go there for the events they have, one or two meetings a year and meet up with the AMVETS Motorcycle Riders Club for some of their rides.

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Kind of makes you wonder if there was a similar issue with GAR vets and how to dealt with those returning from the Spanish American war that led to the creation of the VFW.

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Definitely a similar issue for Vietnam vets. I avoided VFW for about 25 years. After 9/11 I decided to try it and was an at-large member for years before I could find a non-smoking post. This one allows social members so I go with non-vet friends.

CBattBQ87 said:

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Here is a post by the National Commander, on their website.

http://www.vfw.org/News-and-Events/Articles/2014-Articles/VFW-NATIONAL-COMMANDER-PUTS-POSTS-ON-NOTICE/

Quote:

---

VFW NATIONAL COMMANDER PUTS POSTS ON NOTICE
THE FOLLOWING IS A MESSAGE FROM VFW NATIONAL COMMANDER JOHN W. STROUD
November 06, 2014

I am extremely disturbed by the recurring reports from the field as well as the media's portrayal of the VFW as an organization that is comprised of old and out of touch veterans who would rather drink in a dimly lit canteen than open their doors to our younger veterans. The VFW's mission is far too important; our objectives and causes for which we work far too critical; and the current situation of the veteran population far too dire to let the negativity of a few divide us and dilute our efforts. We must empower the younger veterans to be forces of change within our organization while lending them the institutional knowledge to be effective leaders for future generations of veterans.

The fact remains that the stereotypical, dingy, dark and smoke filled VFW Post and canteen do exist, but they have no benefit to our organization, provide no aid to our mission nor to the veterans we strive to help and serve. These Posts are in the minority of our organization, but in order to shift the paradigm we must challenge every member to hold their Post accountable. It's time for our membership to be emboldened into action and to push their Posts to strive for the high ideals that the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States was founded upon.

Accordingly, I am charging my current Department VFW Commanders to be advocates of change and to challenge the officers of the subordinate units within their command to be more than officers challenge them to be leaders cognizant of the current challenges today's veterans face. To do this, our VFW Posts must change their operational tactics to better reflect the modern crises younger veterans are facing on their new "battlefield" the homefront.

For those members and Posts who would rather serve themselves than the countless veterans who are in need, remind them that this organization exists for the benefit of all veterans rather than those of an entitled few. I want to make it clear that I will willingly provide my complete support to any of my Department Commanders who move to shut down any Post, or remove from our leadership rolls, anyone that is not committed to the goals of the organization. They simply don't belong here. The need is too great for a dynamic and modern VFW that can continue to advocate and respond unhesitatingly to the needs of all veterans in the 21st century and beyond. To do less, would be an unconscionable betrayal of our responsibilities as Americans and as veterans.

John W. Stroud
VFW National Commander

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This did not age well. If anything, I think the stereotype has gotten worse. I have since visited two Posts and one AL one. Awful experiences. Damn near triggering if I am being honest. And the online perception seems to be pretty overwhelmingly "Let the old farts hurry up and die and maybe we will try to make something of it" from the Grenada vets onward. As callous as that sounds. And that's for the ones who are even receptive to trying to salvage it at all. Strong support to just let it die on the vine from what I can tell.

Just got me thinking about all this after this horrific attack where a man was beaten near to death for a half hour while a couple people watched in a Post. Main assailant is still on the run.

https://www.post-gazette.com/news/crime-courts/2025/01/09/beaver-county-vfw-assault/stories/202501090056

What say yall. In this current day and age, how do yall fell about the VFW and AL and the state of them in general?

I have only been to the VFW post here in Pearland twice, and both were several years ago. However, judging by their social media presence, that places looks fun. Karaoke nights, themed nights, dance lessons, game nights and other fun looking events. Most of the crows appears to be younger, GWOT folks too. I played their golf tournament back in November and it was a great time. The post commander is a GWOT dude and really energetic and charismatic. I need to get over there and give it a shot. Definitely has my interest.

JABQ04 said:

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I have only been to the VFW post here in Pearland twice, and both were several years ago. However, judging by their social media presence, that places looks fun. Karaoke nights, themed nights, dance lessons, game nights and other fun looking events. Most of the crows appears to be younger, GWOT folks too. I played their golf tournament back in November and it was a great time. The post commander is a GWOT dude and really energetic and charismatic. I need to get over there and give it a shot. Definitely has my interest.

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Just looked up the one closest to me and it looks pretty modern and they had lots of pictures with young families which is a great sign to me. The ones I had tried were in AZ years ago and they were bad and pretty much the exact stereotype of the dingy old bars filled with insufferable *******s.

Might try out this one by me. Maybe.

My grandfather told the story of going off to WWI with his small Iowa farming community buds and being laughed at by GAR vets.

The allegations of Vietnam Vets treating OIF vets poorly was my experience as how Vietnam Vet were treated by WWII/Korea vets. I became a Life Member in the last 90s. I went to the post in Pearland a couple of times but the smoke was overpowering. Never went back. I transferred my membership to a new post in Bulverde. It is a good group, still looking for permanent location, and fastest growing post in Texas. I only participate with a few events, such as flags on Vets grave on Memorial Day

From Wiki: The VFW initially refused membership for Vietnam War veterans. At the time, most incumbent VFW members were World War II and Korean War veterans. Many of these WWII veterans were of the opinion that the conflict in Vietnam was a "police action" and in their minds did not qualify as a war, despite the Korean War also being a "police action" with no formal declaration of war. This rationale was used to deny membership to many Vietnam War veterans across the country. Many of these WWII veterans blamed Vietnam War veterans for losing the war. In the years since, many veterans of the Vietnam War have refused to join the VFW due to this, and many older posts now find themselves struggling to survive as WWII and Korea vets have either died or are no longer active, and younger Iraq and Afghanistan veterans do not feel comfortable joining a dying post.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veterans_of_Foreign_Wars#:~:text=The%20VFW%20initially%20refused%20membership,comfortable%20joining%20a%20dying%20post.

I joined the VFW shortly after Desert Storm, but I haven't visited any Posts lately. When I did visit, there always seemed to somebody ready to label me as a former officer, then ***** about a bad experience with an officer in their past chain of command.

Does anybody have any experience with the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)? There's a local chapter that advertises monthly meetings and quarterly dinners, and they appear to be plugged into virtual benefits seminars from the national organization. I'm just not sure if getting involved would be worth the time.

JA83 said:

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I joined the VFW shortly after Desert Storm, but I haven't visited any Posts lately. When I did visit, there always seemed to somebody ready to label me as a former officer, then ***** about a bad experience with an officer in their past chain of command.

Does anybody have any experience with the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)? There's a local chapter that advertises monthly meetings and quarterly dinners, and they appear to be plugged into virtual benefits seminars from the national organization. I'm just not sure if getting involved would be worth the time.

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I'm a life member, not sure why, but they do advocate for benefits and seem to do a good job there. Their magazine is better than a lot of other vet organizations.
I accidently visited a knife-throwing place a few months ago, the kid at the desk asked if I was a vet (discount). I said yes. He asked what I did, I said helicopter pilot. He said "Oh, an officer." And frowned. I told him most every pilot in the military is an officer. Then he told me about his General Discharge. No wonder he doesn't like officers.

I feel MOAA is a great organization. I'm a Life Member, but don't live near a local chapter. You ought to visit one of their events.

Oops - that was meant for JA83.