What are the various veteran organizations and associations out there?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:25:57 -0400

Recently I asked a question about the pros and cons of joining the VFW and the American Legion. This brought up some other organizations, some I've heard of and others I have not.

Vietnam Veterans of America, the Marine Corps League, Disabled American Veterans, the National Guard Association of the United States, and a bunch of others. Some were even unit affiliated like the 82nd Airborne Division Association.

What groups have you joined and what spurred you into doing so? Have they had a positive impact on you or your community? In recent years have these groups challenged the good old boys club notion that younger vets seem to have?

I signed up for another six, so I'm not getting out anything soon. I have begun to wonder though, when it is time for me to leave are organizations like this worth putting time into. It's been easy to see that not everyone understands military culture, and there are stories you don't tell to people who just won't understand the context or meaning. So I can understand a desire to meet up with people who will understand that.

I can also understand the desire to continue serving outside of the uniform, doing something constructive that supports fellow veterans and your community.

That said I've seen more than a few people share their negative experiences with these kinds of organizations.

Response by LTC Stephan Porter made Apr 26 at 2021 12:30 PM

LTC Stephan Porter — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:30:53 -0400

So, the questions would first be do you want to know Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) and other Veteran Organizations (like unit associations)?

There ar 43,000+ VSOs out there.

One of the organizations that vets VSOs related to transition is http://www.Vets2Industry.com

Vets2Industry Home Page - Find resources for veterans

The free active-duty military, veteran, military-spouse, and dependent children resource library. Providing hope to the community through networking.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2021 12:50 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:50:06 -0400

Good list of orgs. And —-> in NOLA.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BSAuFJjQxog

The Legion of Mars Mardi Gras Krewe

The Legion of Mars involve themselves in Military philanthropy projects and honoring Veterans in any way they can. Their Mardi Gras floats highlight and hono...

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2021 2:23 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:23:07 -0400

I am a life member of the VFW and Vietnam Veterans of America. I donate money to these organizations along with DAV. I joined these organization because they helped with me Agent Orange claims. Do your research when you are ready to join and pay a visit to a Post to see if you want to join.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2021 2:32 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:32:57 -0400

I've used DAV with success.