A Legacy of Valor and Advocacy

Advocating for Veterans Since 1899

About the VFW

As the nation's leading veterans' advocacy organization, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) holds a significant legacy of service. With over 1.4 million members nationwide and supported by 4.4 million patriotic Americans, the Department of Texas VFW specifically aims to gather and advocate for the veterans in the Texas state. Our essential support programs include:

Benefits Counseling: Expert VA benefits guidance from accredited officers.
Advocacy: Upholding veterans' rights and promises on Capitol Hill.
Emergency Aid: Financial help for essentials to struggling military families.
Welcome Home Celebrations: Honoring returned service members.

Mission

Foster camaraderie among U.S. veterans of overseas conflicts, serve veterans, the military, and our communities, and advocate for all veterans.

Vision

Ensure veterans are respected for their service, receive their earned entitlements, and are recognized for their sacrifices.

VFW's Impact By the Numbers

$13 billion

Recouped Veteran Benefits

$45 million

Annual Community Project Funding

$3 million+

Annual Educational Support

$1.6 million+

Awarded Academic Scholarships

$589,007

Crisis Financial Aid in 2023

Legislative Milestones

The VFW has significantly shaped veteran support through these specific legislative milestones:

Establishment of the Veterans Administration: Advocating foundational support structures for veterans.
Development of the National Cemetery System: Ensuring dignified resting places for veterans.
Advocacy for Compensation: Leading efforts for Vietnam vets affected by Agent Orange and those with Gulf War Syndrome.
GI Bill for the 21st Century (2008): Expanding educational benefits for service members active in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Veterans Access and Accountability Act of 2014: Pushing for reforms to improve access to VA services, including enhanced care for women veterans.

The VFW also significantly contributed to the creation and funding of several key war memorials:

Vietnam, Korean, and World War II Veterans Memorials
Women in Military Service Memorial
Disabled Veterans for Life Memorial (2005)
National Desert Storm War Memorial (2015) veterans.

Most recently, the organization was instrumental in passing the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act, a major legislative victory that expanded VA health care and benefits comprehensively.

See More Legislative Victories

Reach Out for More Information

If you have any questions about Texas VFW, please contact us.

WE WELCOME YOU TO JOIN US

Join the VFW by meeting two requirements: honorable service in the U.S. Armed Forces and participation in operations on foreign soil or hostile waters. Eligibility can be verified through campaign medals, Hostile Fire Pay, or service in Korea. For family members of eligible veterans, the VFW Auxiliary provides a membership option.

Check Your Eligibility