The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) was founded in 1899 by veterans of the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection. At that time, wounded and disabled veterans returned home to a nation that offered little support, no organized healthcare system, and few benefits. Determined to care for one another and advocate for those who served, these veterans formed what would become the VFW.

What began as a handful of local organizations quickly grew into a powerful national movement. Today, the VFW and its Auxiliary have more than 1.4 million members in nearly 6,000 Posts worldwide.

For more than a century, the VFW has been a leading voice for veterans, helping secure many of the benefits service members rely on today. The organization played a key role in the creation of the Veterans Administration, now the Department of Veterans Affairs, the original GI Bill, national veterans cemeteries, compensation for veterans affected by Agent Orange and Gulf War illnesses, and expanded education benefits through modern GI Bill legislation.

The VFW continues to advocate for quality healthcare, earned benefits, and support for veterans and military families. Through youth scholarships, community service programs, veteran assistance, and legislative advocacy, the VFW remains committed to its founding mission.

For over 125 years, one thing has remained unchanged: veterans helping veterans and serving their communities.