The American Legion and VFW will almost certainly die off. Will it really matter to younger veterans?

The question cites the average age in the assumption that these organization will die off, but hasn't the average age been pretty old for a really long time? It makes sense because it is much easier and more worthwhile to be part of something like this when one is retired. There's not as much extra time for meetings and such when one is working, raising a family, etc.

No. I am, technically at least, a member of both organizations. One a life member, the other I renew whenever the renewal comes in the mail. I have never felt any interest in actually participating in either. A review of their magazines and marketing materials show that they are focused on a demographic that doesn't include me.

The only reason I am even a "technical" member is because I believe that they do do a lot of good, and are worthy of support. I was also a Flexcar member for over a decade when I didn't live in a flexcar footprint.

I have been hearing that the American Legion is doomed since I first joined in the late sixties. This time maybe it really will happen. I am sure that some posts will close but I doubt that all will. I think that a major problem is the fact that so few join the military today and many who do just do it for a paycheck and are not very patriotic to start with.

So since these groups, demanded and got GI Bill, Montgomery Bill, disability, pay raises, VA funding- what will the new kids do- sit on their ass and watch it go away? Recruiting is hard, life is hectic. If the young ones are not sold on the story of the progress these groups have made for all, then down the road they will be like the Civil War or WW1 veterans h=who had and got nothing, except burnt out of DC by McArthur and Pershing.