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

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 17:51:24 -0500

There is no basis to believe that the American Legion and VFW will be able to reverse their membership decline. We've heard this old story before, yes. Average age in many of these posts is 72-74 years old (VFW's own data). We all know younger veterans generally don't care about being a member in either of these orgs. When these VSOs do die off, will it really matter to the larger vet community?

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Nov 23 at 2016 6:26 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 18:26:40 -0500

Oh boy...I came for the fireworks.
*question followed*

Will reply when I'm on the ground in Seattle.

Response by SP5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2016 7:00 PM

SP5 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 19:00:56 -0500

CPT Aaron Kletzing Our Legion post in Brevard NC is facing the issue common to the AL nationwide. We face an end to a 90 year old post without new members and their active involvement. That said, the Legion doesn't seem to offer what the current generation pf veterans are seeking, whatever that might be. The canard that "the AL and VFW consist of a group of old men in funny hats sitting around drinking beer and telling stories" has a ring of truth. It could be that the current crop of vets are in no mood for war stories since they have experienced their own adventures too often too recently. In any case, the existing model needs to change to attract new members.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2016 8:08 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 20:08:11 -0500

I'm not sure these organizations have a lot to offer Veterans who are still working and raising families. That will probably change once they can afford to retire and all the kids have left the nest.

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Nov 23 at 2016 8:12 PM

MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 20:12:20 -0500

Considering many current post members have the "you were not in MY war so you aren't important" mentality, it doesn't surprise me the Posts are (literally) dying off and passing into history.

Response by SFC George Smith made Nov 23 at 2016 8:15 PM

SFC George Smith — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 20:15:40 -0500

there is a new generation coming Up...

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2016 8:53 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 20:53:58 -0500

CPT Aaron Kletzing I am a member at large of the VFW, but have never been to a Post. I joined because a VFW VSO helped me with my VA claim. I have never felt the urge to go to a Post.

Response by SPC Britanny Winnie Balthaser made Nov 23 at 2016 9:08 PM

SPC Britanny *Winnie* Balthaser — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 21:08:39 -0500

CPT Aaron Kletzing I am a member of the American Legion and shortly the VFW. I find it hard because the older generation pushes us the younger ones away with our ideas and technology. I understand it is a different way but if they don't let us in it will be the end. Gotta keep up with the time. All other industries, food, hospitality, automotive even agriculture is changing... I am happy to help and bring in more people as I can, and I was just told by the Auxilary ladies at the VFW here that they need more of us (younger, energy) We need to work on ways to work together and bring the younger generation into the mix and have them more involved. I love working service projects and helping...

Response by CPT Nicholas D. made Nov 23 at 2016 11:01 PM

CPT Nicholas D. — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 23:01:09 -0500

I am sure the population participating in VSO's will continue to decline, but I doubt they will die completely. Part of that is the growing differential in the US population and the percentage of those that serve. With that said, that doesn't mean Veterans are not active. In fact, look at the number of Veterans Organizations that have been started during the GWOT years. Most of them focus on niche issues versus being broad Vet Representation, but they are doing good things for the community. I think one of the big things affecting VSO participation is where the "millennial" veteran generation is at in their lives. The ADVON of the generation are full swing parents and plugging away at careers. The main body and the REARVON are still trying to put together the life they want to have (going to school, finding a spouse, lock in a career, etc). I think as "our" generation (I guess I'm on ADVON), gets closer to retirement, we'll have more time for activities such as VSOs.

I've been a member of the VFW for 10 years, but been a member at large for the above stated reasons. I've only slept in my own bed 5 months out of the last 24... so participation is going to have to wait. I do think the culture is going to have to adjust to the new crowd, but that doesn't mean we can't learn a little about organization, civics, or fraternity (sorority) from our predecessors. We at times have different goals for our VSO's but I think the legislative lobbying is important (and effective).

A final consideration, I think we have such differing experiences, it's tough to lump us all into one "veteran" basket. Just because we wore uniforms with pins and brass doesn't mean we've all walked in the same shoes. Social Media has made it easier for Veterans to stay in touch with their particular group with common background. (Even places like Rally Point allow vets to plug into what they are interested in and disregard the rest.) We are inclined to gravitate towards people with shared experiences. The range of perspectives is pretty wide. We also have a much better records system to identify the PX Rangers. There are more than we would like to admit who have "generated histories", and unfortunately, these organizations have attracted quite a few of that ilk. I think times are changing... but the AL and VFW still have an important roll to play with advocacy to the US Government for taking care of us.

And few things make me beam with pride as much as when a VFW color guard goes trooping by at the Memorial Day Parade!

Response by SGT Jerrold Pesz made Nov 23 at 2016 11:34 PM

SGT Jerrold Pesz — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 23:34:18 -0500

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.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Nov 24 at 2016 12:18 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 00:18:14 -0500

When I returned from Viet Nam I was looked down on by their WWII members, and I never went back.

Response by SSgt Bill Trevor made Nov 24 at 2016 12:32 AM

SSgt Bill Trevor — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 00:32:47 -0500

As a member I hope not but will admit I'm not as active as I could be. Is it an unfair and incorrect assumption that many are more bars than than Veteran organizations?

Response by SSG Laurie Mullen made Nov 24 at 2016 1:17 AM

SSG Laurie Mullen — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 01:17:24 -0500

It may be that the reason so many men were active in those organizations was so that they could stay connected to their brothers. Today's new generation of veterans stay connected through the internet now. How many of us joined this site to connect with others who understand us? How many of us have joined veteran's Face Book pages to connect with other veterans? In addition to this site, I am a member of at least five Face Book pages for veterans only.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Nov 24 at 2016 2:11 AM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 02:11:34 -0500

Problematic to say the Least. Respectfully Past Commander VFW Post 10299 Prairie Village, KS, Past Chaplain, Jr Vice and Vice Cdr. We folded out Post into a County wide Post of Shawnee Mission. The Identity of Veterans is Changing to say the Least. I was an Obama Supporter most of my Post loved using the N word for him. Welcome to the New World. Dynamics are a Changing. I am a Cold War, El Dorado Canyon, Desert Storm, Desert Strike Veteran. My Son-in-Law is a GWOT Veteran. My Son has a Love of his Confederate Heritage even though He Married into a Liberal Family. Easy Answers are out the window at this Point.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Nov 24 at 2016 10:01 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 10:01:40 -0500

If either of these two organizations die not only will a major part of our history die with them but the "bargaining chips" for the younger generation will die with it. The men and women who are VSOs are the people who know the ins and outs of the VA and are most instrumental to getting claims filed on behalf of the veteran. Will it matter? You can bet your disabilities it will.

When you lose your voice(s) in DC, there will be nothing to stop the erosion of care, disabilities and benefits. You need look no further back than Vietnam. The late Col. George "Bud" Day, a Medal of Honor recipient, fought tirelessly for one primary benefit. Those of us serving even as late as the 70s were told that if we signed up and served for 20 years honorably, we would be given lifetime medical care. This promise was later reneged on by our elected representatives in DC...and allowed to stand by the courts!

That is just one example of how our government is screwing us. Another example is the fight over Agent Orange exposure for those who served in Thailand, Guam, Korea and some other places. The prevailing attitude among those vets is: deny, deny, deny until we all die. IF you allow the VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, DAV and any other service organization to die off, you will die off with no one to speak for you.

I'm 64 years old. My health is deteriorating in part due to my service. I paid my nickle and took my chances. I would rather have my health but the money helps a little. VA disability benefits must be increased so that those veterans with service connected disabilities can have some semblance of a normal life. IMO, the rates of compensation for the disabled veteran MUST be increased by a minimum of 25%. The VA Health Care System mus be revamped. To his credit, Sec'y Bob McDonald has been trying but his efforts are being stonewalled. Again, the elected representatives in DC are to a major extent are responsible.

In less than 60 days a new Commander in Chief will take office. One of Mr. Trump's campaign promises was to take care of the Veterans. Let's make damn sure he keeps that promise. You need to do your part too. You need to join a service organization...several if you can to assure our voices are heard by the bureaucrats in DC.

Response by 1SG Al Brown made Nov 24 at 2016 10:14 AM

1SG Al Brown — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 10:14:26 -0500

Will it matter? Nope. Younger veterans meet on blog sites, via their cell phones. The location and organization changes, but the intent remains.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Nov 24 at 2016 11:11 AM

COL Vincent Stoneking — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 11:11:08 -0500

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.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2016 1:30 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 13:30:18 -0500

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.

Response by SSG Drew Cook made Nov 24 at 2016 3:35 PM

SSG Drew Cook — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 15:35:14 -0500

Most of the folks I know who've gone to a Legion or DAV report that they don't feel like they fit in. As for me, I'm not really sure how they benefit me personally, and really could care less.

Response by SPC Edward Lavoie made Nov 24 at 2016 6:35 PM

SPC Edward Lavoie — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 18:35:31 -0500

It's so sad but from my personal experience(A.L. Since 94) they truely just don't want to be involved. With the bar aspect,yes, but that's it. SO SAD.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2016 6:38 PM

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 18:38:05 -0500

We shouldn't just view this through the lens of veterans' organizations. Participation in fraternal societies is diminishing in general. This has less to do with vets and the military than it does with society as a whole. The KoC, Elks, Masons, and probably even Ralph Kramden's Raccoon Lodge are all shrinking. I do think part of the problem is that VFW and the Legion could do a better job of communicating to younger vets why they're relevant.

I'm a fairly active life member of my regimental association. One thing I've seen through the years is that when guys get out, they don't consider joining. But after a few years of missing the boys, they join up. Perhaps if the VFW and Legion survive they'll see an increased membership once vets become nostalgic.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Nov 24 at 2016 7:56 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 19:56:22 -0500

Life member, VFW, Caldwell, Idaho

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Nov 25 at 2016 12:48 PM

SGT Dave Tracy — Fri, 25 Nov 2016 12:48:22 -0500

I'm a Generation Xer, not a Millennial, but that means I'm still a good standard deviation or two lower than the mean age of most members. Obviously generational differences come into play, but how exactly, I don't pretend to know. I just know in my case, I considered joining the local Legion, but in reality, I'm just not a "joiner" kinda guy.

I don't want to see these things pass into history, but I do not see myself belonging with them either.

Response by CPT Richard Riley made Nov 26 at 2016 12:47 PM

CPT Richard Riley — Sat, 26 Nov 2016 12:47:04 -0500

All I can contribute is: different time, different perspective, different attitude. I know many (especially here in these walls) who are members and whole-heartedly believe in the principals. I have tried to interact ... in all fairness only a hand full of times ... with little success. All that stated, I do not want it to fade into oblivion.

Response by CPL Dan McCready made Nov 26 at 2016 8:19 PM

CPL Dan McCready — Sat, 26 Nov 2016 20:19:14 -0500

Two years ago, my Legion post was facing closure, due mostly by mismanagement by the former commander. I joined after we elected a new commander, and have been one of the youngest members to date. We have now seen a steady increase in membership, especially with younger veterans. I hadn't even thought about joining when I left the Army in 2005, but after talking to the current commander (prior to joining) I have found what I had been missing for the better part of a decade. Within a few months of joining, I was asked to join the honor guard, and have been recently elected/ appointed as finance officer for my post. For the most part, I think it is up to the post members to help recruit younger vets into the organisation. All in all, I feel and have felt nothing but welcome at our post from all members.

Response by SPC Darren Koele made Nov 26 at 2016 11:55 PM

SPC Darren Koele — Sat, 26 Nov 2016 23:55:00 -0500

Well, I decided to read all the responses instead of repeating what's already been said a dozen times. So I'll just say, I agree with the most of the posters. The million dollar question then becomes, what can we do about it? Are we really that powerless to stop it? Sure, we may have to bide our time until the "old guard" is gone, but what is to stop us from becoming members, toughing it out until the older folks are unable to resume their duties in the positions of the organization. I hate to sound so cruel but sometimes it has to be that way. We all respect the older members; WW2, Korea, Vietnam, but they need to realize that times have changed. If the VFW is to be, or remain, a respected organization they have to lose the "good old boys" club perception. The younger people, whether it's a Desert Storm vet or GWOT terror vet need to step up and take control. But that swings us back to, "do us younger (basically 50 and under) people care enough to put forth this effort.? Do we care enough about tradition and our fellow veterans?" Is something we can even commit to? I mean, it's not an internet based group where you can pop in and out and take an active part when it suits you. It's a real group with a real purpose in the community.
I say all this because I would consider taking part. But my VFW is like many others, old guys sitting around drinking, swapping stories, and talking about the good old days. Hell, I remember looking for a place to bring some badly damaged American flags for "proper" disposal. I walked up to the VFW, and had to ring a bell and talk on an intercom to gain access. The bar was open for business but God help you if you wanted information about what they do. There were about 6 guys inside, 2 at the bar 4 at a table. None of them said a word to me but I felt like I was being dressed down for interrupting their afternoon pity party or whatever was going on. I talked to the bartender about the flags. My pride in thinking I was doing the right thing was greatly diminished when she said "just put them over there, we'll take care of them" and she walked away. Getting the sense she didn't care, I left with the flags and turned them over to the Boy Scouts.
To put it mildly, my experience with the VFW and the members has not been positive. I wonder if the older members feel this is all they have left and younger people are a threat to them getting their last hooray before they fade away.

I've made a lot of assumptions and generalizations in this post. All I can say is, if the shoe fits... Is the VFW something we veterans should just allow to fade into oblivion? Or do we root out the problem and fix it? Whether it's the old guys, the millennial, or those of us in between, the problem lies in one or all of us and the resolution lies in some of us.

Response by SGT David T. made Nov 28 at 2016 9:41 AM

SGT David T. — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 09:41:30 -0500

Organizations that refuse to adapt die. I can't speak to the American Legion but my VFW experience was not a good one. After I got back from my last tour to Iraq I joined the VFW. I was asked for my membership card several times during a single visit to the posts. The look of contempt in the older veterans' eyes and general rudeness was intolerable. So I never went back. Of course when my membership was about to expire they had their hands out looking for me to renew. Seems they wanted my money but not me. That aside, the majority of activities that the VFW does is not geared towards younger veterans. They need to reinvent themselves to be more welcoming to younger members as well as be relevant. If they change, I may give it another chance. If not, then they will fold and it wont matter to me in the least.

Response by SFC William Stephens made Nov 28 at 2016 1:26 PM

SFC William Stephens — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 13:26:34 -0500

I currently live near a POST legion like right down the street. I walked in the other day and I nothing but older members, no young members belong to the group and to belong to the group it was like I had to show my DD form 214 and a whole wrap sheet of combat tours and everything else and they were asking for money or dues already, no thank you for your service or a beer on the house, What kind of VFW have I just walked in to. So do I really want to give my money to this veterans organization? I know their are others out there but I would to belong to one someday for community involvement. Somebody got to help me out on this one. I'm on train track but the train is going nowhere.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Nov 28 at 2016 4:09 PM

CSM Richard StCyr — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 16:09:36 -0500

This is cyclic, I remember in my youth the old guys (WWII/ Korea) complaining that they couldn't get the Vietnam vets to join or participate. It was pointed out then and I think it holds true now that the guys were busy with work/ family events and would become more active as their families grew older and they had less obligations with their kids to attend to. Fast foreword... look at who the active older members are today...... Vietnam vets and who are they having a hard time getting enrolled and participating.... Us Gulf War, and OEF/OIF vets.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2016 9:44 AM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 09:44:21 -0500

Judging from the age of average members, both organizations are comprised of people who no longer have jobs. Perhaps that's part of the appeal - with nothing else to do, it's nice to have someone to meet with regularly and tell war stories with.

It really isn't up to younger veterans whether the organizations survive or not. It's up to the organizations. If they can find a way to be relevant, they'll survive. If not, they'll die out.

I visited the VFW once, and I have to say, it appeared to me to be mostly about drinking. I don't drink much, and when I do it is never beer, so it's hard to feel like I fit in.

Response by SFC Charley Chester made Dec 9 at 2016 7:51 PM

SFC Charley Chester — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 19:51:46 -0500

Between WWI and WWII. There were only 500,000 VFW members. Yes, we will take a hit on size. I feel we will prevail because there will be enough veterans that will carry the baton into the next era after us Vietnam Veterans are gone.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Dec 8 at 2017 2:57 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Fri, 08 Dec 2017 14:57:35 -0500

The only thing the accomplish is getting their pictures taken with the President and blindly endorsing the same VA they complain about. Let them die

Response by CW4 Jim Webb made Mar 22 at 2018 11:36 AM

CW4 Jim Webb — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 11:36:10 -0400

I have read most of the posts in this thread with interest after having recently attended a local American Legion post monthly meeting with my wife who could join either the Legion or the Auxiliary herself. Note: This meeting was the first one since October of last year because many of the members are "Snow Birds" who spend the cold Minnesota winter in places like Arizona and Florida.

Here is my two cents worth (three cents after adjustment for inflation):

I had been discharged from Active Duty for several years before even thinking about joining the American Legion and/or the Veterans of Foreign Wars. As a Vietnam veteran, I felt the cold shoulder offered by the WWII and Korean War vets who were in the leadership positions at the time. Meanwhile, I received a post card in the mail directing me to what hot dog stand I was assigned to work for the annual Fourth of July observance. No discussion, no phone call, just a post card in the mail that reminded me of a duty roster posted on the unit bulletin board. As a result, I became a very inactive member but retained my membership because of the lobbying efforts of the American Legion and VFW in support of veterans.

Fast forward thirty years. My wife and I both retired and built a home "up north" on a former dairy farm. Life in the country is good; we are blessed.

Recently one of my friends with whom I had served in an Army National Guard unit many, many years ago passed away and, at his funeral, I noticed several mature gentlemen in
American Legion uniforms. I approached them to thank them for the military honors they had performed at my friend's funeral. He had been a member of their post. After some discussion, I agreed to attend their next monthly meeting with the possibility of changing my membership to their post. My old post was 150 miles away, so it just made sense even though I had no incentive to do so in the 12 years after we had retired and moved.

I should mention that my old post was in a bedroom community of a major metropolitan area, the Twin Cities - Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN. Despite my negligible contribution, the post was very active and a highlight of their year's activities was the Annual Fourth of July Parade. Both the Legion and the local VFW Post had very nice facilities, a bar, banquet room, etc. and drew substantial income from liquor sales and pull tabs. Their profiles in the community were quite large, they had very professional websites and contributed to the local police department and fire department.

My experience attending the monthly meeting at our new location was quite different. A point of fact: Not all AL or VFW posts have bars, or even buildings. Some, especially in the "outstate" (read "rural") areas, don't even have buildings and conduct their meetings in community centers. Some which once owned structures have divested themselves of the buildings due to the decline in membership and thus revenue.

My wife and I arrived at the community center promptly at 7PM. The Legion post was having their meeting on one side of the building and the Auxiliary usually meets on the other side but cancelled
their meeting altogether for this month. When we arrived attendance jumped from six people to
nine. The Commander of the post and the Adjutant (his brother) were wearing their Legion hats.
We all sat around and introduced ourselves as we waited for at least one more officer to appear
(or they would not have been able to conduct a meeting). A few minutes later the Treasurer appeared and the meeting began.

We learned that the post had 26 members although 7 were past due in renewing their membership. Two members had passed away in the past year and two new members had joined. The Boy's State applications had been received and the $200 scholarship competition consisted of one essay although there was some talk about another one being on the way. The Girl's State applications were handled separately by the Auxiliary. Four funerals were attended by military honors representatives.

As for future activities, the post will have Poppy distribution on Memorial Day, maintain veteran's
markers and flags at the local cemetery, and have a spaghetti dinner as a fundraiser. Last year's proceeds were used to buy a motorized wheelchair for a local nursing home. I inquired about having a booth at the County Fair for recruiting and was told it was too expensive. My wife asked about a monthly newsletter or having a website and got a similar response.

We left that evening scratching our heads. As outsiders, it seemed to us that the post was clearly dying and the reason was there was absolutely no effort being made to recruit new members. They seemed to be doing exactly the same things in exactly the same ways that they had always done. We are still discussing whether or not to join. Any input or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 24 at 2018 5:26 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Sat, 24 Mar 2018 05:26:15 -0400

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.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Mar 24 at 2018 6:52 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Sat, 24 Mar 2018 06:52:59 -0400

Our little post is actually increasing, currently we're at 120% of intended goal.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Mar 24 at 2018 7:03 AM

SSgt Jim Gilmore — Sat, 24 Mar 2018 07:03:22 -0400

The younger folks must realize that the service organizations are their only voices being heard in the halls of DC. If they are allowed to die out who will speak for you then? When I and may others returned from Vietnam We were met by a bunch of grumpy old bastards telling us Vietnam wasn't a damn war. Well, we got over it and now it is time for the younger folks to understand you are not going to make change one voice at a time. It has to be many, it has to be loud and most of all it has to be for the benefit of ALL Veterans.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2018 8:24 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 24 Mar 2018 08:24:32 -0400

I just recently joint the American Legion after thinking about it for years. What are my expectations. Maybe a yearly reunion, virtual contact, comradeship.

Response by SFC William Harris made Apr 4 at 2018 11:06 PM

SFC William Harris — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 23:06:12 -0400

I am currently resigning from the VFW and have no desire for the legion. I have found, through the hard way, that the VFW has gotten somewhat corporate and cares for it’s higher officials while ignoring the lower posts. My posts suffered some damage in the recent storm, and were told by our higher VFW authority that they could not help us but that we could apply for grants else where, Yet the organization gives money to other organizations outside of the VFW. That is not a way to take care of your own people, we are veterans too.

Response by SCPO Norman Copeland made Apr 22 at 2018 5:53 PM

SCPO Norman Copeland — Sun, 22 Apr 2018 17:53:12 -0400

This year as VFW State Commander I have seen many posts struggle to be more relevant to the new generation of vets and I have seen great success. I have seen failures in congress to get the right bills passed for our troops and veterans. A larger membership would help that but if the younger vets don't care to help in that respect we older ones will still fight to do what is right for all veterans. I have seen young veterans getting involved in the VFW and doing great things. We stood up two new VFW posts and resurrected 4 Posts from the dead this year. These are posts with current generation vets in charge and running the posts. Locally my district has 8 posts only one has a canteen(bar) and it is fading away. The others are either ahead in membership from last year or holding steady the ones that are growing continue to grow. We continue to do the right things. My post delivered 30,000lbs of relief supplies to Texas this year with a total cost of less than one hundred dollars to the post and we don't even have a post home. We are just active in the community and the community filled the needs when we asked. The cash that was donated was used to rent Uhauls and pay for fuel and meals on the trips. We drove straight thru to save on lodging. Our local government calls us when a veteran needs help and we help. I don't see the VFW going away anytime soon those Vets with an attitude of service to others will keep us around for years to come. All that said there are several posts that don't do the right thing we are working on it and if you would like to help remember the membership runs the VFW not the commander... get enough votes on the floor of the meetings and great things can happen. Make the VFW meet your needs it can happen and does all the time.

Response by SSG Dave Rogers made Jun 4 at 2018 8:19 PM

SSG Dave Rogers — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 20:19:07 -0400

It will matter, many people do not realize all that the VFW and American Legion do not only locally, but on a National Level. Most benefits veterans have today are because of these groups, and if they die off there will be no larger legislative group to fight the way that they do, or help local veterans the way that they do.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Jun 4 at 2018 9:16 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 21:16:02 -0400

I've never been a member but I looked into it in the early 70s at my hometown's American Legion and the VFW in the next town over.
.
VFW It was the 3 Rs from 3 different members w/n 10 minutes.
Rude - "Yer shouldn't even be allowed in here since you never fought a 'real war'".
Racist and I mean "I know yer daddy. Isn't he that half-breed from Oklahoma?" kind of racism.
Rich - "Yer got to support everything we tell you to and that costs money. Hope you got deep pockets because here's the list of what you have to donate this amount this month.
.
American Legion - Took my money and wouldn't talk to me afterward when I dropped by. Never gave a membership card.
.
I became part of the 'Hey! You're a Vet? Mind if I sit with you and have lunch? Thanks. So what service were you? Club'. Works better for me that way.
.
Did I say that I was real glad when Rally Point came online?
.
Here's a follow-up on the problem that might help since I like to provide solutions, not just have a whine and cheese party. Here's my advice.
1. Recruit younger members.
2. Teach them the different club leadership positions, having them mentored in those positions for 3-4 months.
3. After they're proficient - let them run the jobs while their predecessor are still able to enjoy things without the responsibilities.
4. Elect officers not by the rank they held in the service.
5. After 6 months to a year, step aside and let the new guys keep the posts 'alive'.
.
TRUST THEM.

Response by PO3 John Wagner made Jun 4 at 2018 10:46 PM

PO3 John Wagner — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 22:46:20 -0400

VFW’s problem. You must be a veteran of a foreign war. If being a veteran were enough they could thrive. That particular bit of exclusion is costing them all.
That’s all right if they don’t mind I suppose,

Response by Cpl James Mayo made Aug 9 at 2018 8:45 PM

Cpl James Mayo — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 20:45:39 -0400

I'm a member of the VFW and served in Enduring Freedom, but don't find a warm welcome or a lot of commonality with the Vietnam guys, who don't welcome the younger crowd very openly and have tried to insult me as not a real combat veteran. I've noticed some MOS snobbery too.

The point of the VFW and AL is supposed to be fraternity but if there is no fraternal behavior the entire raison d'etre disappears

Response by COL John McClellan made Aug 21 at 2018 9:39 PM

COL John McClellan — Tue, 21 Aug 2018 21:39:56 -0400

I'm 54, a Veteran and a VFW Post Quartermaster. 47% of our Post is 75 years old or older, but we now have 3 officers in our Post that are under 55, one under 40. My membership recommendation this year was "50 under 50" -- go find 50 new members under 50 years old. 6 weeks in, we have 5 so far. I don't know that this generation of Post-911 warriors won't join... the internet can't replace everything. I do think though that these organizations will have to adapt To the 21st Century) if they want to survive!

Response by SPC David S. made Sep 26 at 2019 8:14 AM

SPC David S. — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 08:14:10 -0400

As a member that is one of the issues I'm working on - attracting younger people - however it is a hard sale with all the competing social media platforms. Instead of connecting with strangers, veterans are able to stay in touch with the individuals that they served with regardless of proximity. I myself was reluctant to join but did so I as I didn't like the idea of not having these services organizations around. I feel they can serve as an advocate for veterans' benefits.

Response by SPC Ernie I⁹ Amsden made Nov 12 at 2023 7:35 AM

SPC Ernie I⁹ Amsden — Sun, 12 Nov 2023 07:35:35 -0500

The American Legion has a membership crisis because it has a leadership crisis. I will address the local post, but from what I have seen, the situation exists throughout.
The people who sit in positions of leadership (they are most assuredly NOT leaders) are stuck in the past. They are unwilling to even hear, much less consider, suggestions that might attract the younger generation of veterans.
For the first 40 or so years after I separated from active duty, my service wasn't good enough to qualify me for membership. My service didn't fall within those magical dates to make me "special". After the rules were changed, I joined the local post and, within just a few months, was advised that I don't have anything of value to offer.
You might ask what I did to merit such a response, and rightly so. My offense: I had the temerity to suggest that attracting new members would require a new approach; that having a dingy hall offering cheap beer isn't enough.
Interestingly enough, it was ONLY those people it the "leadership" chairs that took exception to my "bad attitude"; nearly ALL of the rank and file members agree that I am on the right track.
I might (emphasis on "might") decide to keep membership at the state level, but I wouldn't give a damn if the local post evaporated today. I got through 40 years without being a member, and I have no doubt that I can survive the rest of my life.

Response by SPC Matt Ovaska made Aug 3 at 2024 8:43 PM

SPC Matt Ovaska — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 20:43:57 -0400

I have fond memories of the VFW, before it closed.

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

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

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Nov 23 at 2016 6:26 PM

Response by SP5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2016 7:00 PM

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2016 8:08 PM

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Nov 23 at 2016 8:12 PM

Response by SFC George Smith made Nov 23 at 2016 8:15 PM

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2016 8:53 PM

Response by SPC Britanny *Winnie* Balthaser made Nov 23 at 2016 9:08 PM

Response by CPT Nicholas D. made Nov 23 at 2016 11:01 PM

Response by SGT Jerrold Pesz made Nov 23 at 2016 11:34 PM

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Nov 24 at 2016 12:18 AM

Response by SSgt Bill Trevor made Nov 24 at 2016 12:32 AM

Response by SSG Laurie Mullen made Nov 24 at 2016 1:17 AM

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Nov 24 at 2016 2:11 AM

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Nov 24 at 2016 10:01 AM

Response by 1SG Al Brown made Nov 24 at 2016 10:14 AM

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Nov 24 at 2016 11:11 AM

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2016 1:30 PM

Response by SSG Drew Cook made Nov 24 at 2016 3:35 PM

Response by SPC Edward Lavoie made Nov 24 at 2016 6:35 PM

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2016 6:38 PM

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Nov 24 at 2016 7:56 PM

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Nov 25 at 2016 12:48 PM

Response by CPT Richard Riley made Nov 26 at 2016 12:47 PM

Response by CPL Dan McCready made Nov 26 at 2016 8:19 PM

Response by SPC Darren Koele made Nov 26 at 2016 11:55 PM

Response by SGT David T. made Nov 28 at 2016 9:41 AM

Response by SFC William Stephens made Nov 28 at 2016 1:26 PM

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Nov 28 at 2016 4:09 PM

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2016 9:44 AM

Response by SFC Charley Chester made Dec 9 at 2016 7:51 PM

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Dec 8 at 2017 2:57 PM

Response by CW4 Jim Webb made Mar 22 at 2018 11:36 AM

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 24 at 2018 5:26 AM

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Mar 24 at 2018 6:52 AM

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Mar 24 at 2018 7:03 AM

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 24 at 2018 8:24 AM

Response by SFC William Harris made Apr 4 at 2018 11:06 PM

Response by SCPO Norman Copeland made Apr 22 at 2018 5:53 PM

Response by SSG Dave Rogers made Jun 4 at 2018 8:19 PM

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Jun 4 at 2018 9:16 PM

Response by PO3 John Wagner made Jun 4 at 2018 10:46 PM

Response by Cpl James Mayo made Aug 9 at 2018 8:45 PM

Response by COL John McClellan made Aug 21 at 2018 9:39 PM

Response by SPC David S. made Sep 26 at 2019 8:14 AM

Response by SPC Ernie I⁹ Amsden made Nov 12 at 2023 7:35 AM

Response by SPC Matt Ovaska made Aug 3 at 2024 8:43 PM

Response by SPC Britanny Winnie Balthaser made Nov 23 at 2016 9:08 PM