History of the VFW
As America's oldest Major Veterans Service Orginization the Veterans of Foreign
Wars of the United States has a rich and notable history that has not only
served America' veterans but America as a whole.
From collecting millions of signatures to make the Star Spangled Banner our National Anthem to today's new G.I BIll for service members, the VFW has been the tip of the spear for America and those who serve her in uniform.
September 29, 1899 thirteen veterans of the Spanish-American War formed the American Veterans of Foreign Service (AVFS) that has grown into today's VFW with over 1.4 million members.
Cross of Malta
The VFW Cross of Malta dates back to the formation of the AVFS and symbolizes a society of warriors who have traveled to foreign countries to protect and advance the principles of freedom.
Origins of the VFW Cap
The overseas cap was America's first military uniform device denoting war time service and has been adopted by the VFW as it's official cap honoring those who have answered Americas call to arms. Click here for an article on the VFW cap.
Video History of the VFW - Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4 - Part 5.
Below are articles published in the National VFW Magazine in 1999 during the VFW's 100 year anniversary that provide specific details about the formation and history of the VFW.
Article 1 Article 2 Article 3 Article 4 Article 5
Article 6 Article 7 Article 8 Article 9 Article 10