Join the VFW, Join the First Post
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Membership Meeting is 2nd Sundays at 11am
VFW Membership Eligibility
To join the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), you must meet all three of the following criteria: 1. U.S. Citizenship or U.S. National Must be a U.S. citizen or a U.S. national. 2. Honorable Service Must have served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces. 3. Overseas Service in a Combat Zone Must have served in a foreign war, overseas operation, or expedition recognized by a campaign medal or service ribbon. Examples of Qualifying Service You may be eligible if you: Received a campaign medal, such as: Iraq Campaign Medal Afghanistan Campaign Medal Vietnam Service Medal Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Southwest Asia Service Medal Received Hostile Fire Pay or Imminent Danger Pay while serving overseas. Served in Korea for 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days. Important Notes General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions does not qualify. Only those who served in a recognized area of foreign conflict are eligible (not just overseas duty). Documentation such as a DD-214 is required to verify eligibility.
Why You Should Join VFW Post 1
Founded in 1899, VFW Post 1 in Denver, Colorado, is not only the very first VFW post in the nation, but also a living legacy of veterans supporting veterans for over 125 years. Being part of Post 1 means joining history, tradition, and a forward-looking community dedicated to service. 1. A Historic Legacy As the original VFW post, Post 1 is where it all began. Every member carries forward the vision of the founding veterans who created a voice for those who served overseas. 2. Camaraderie with Purpose Post 1 is more than a place to meet—it’s a community of veterans who “get it.” You’ll build lifelong friendships with others who share the same pride and sacrifices of service. 3. Impact in the Heart of Denver Post 1 leads community service initiatives, partners with local organizations, and provides a visible veteran presence downtown. Members help guide youth programs, provide scholarships, and honor the memory of our fallen heroes. 4. Advocacy That Matters Your membership strengthens the VFW’s voice in Colorado and in Washington, D.C. Together, we fight for the benefits, healthcare, and recognition veterans and their families deserve. 5. Support & Resources Post 1 connects veterans to employment, education, and VA assistance. We support one another in times of hardship, ensuring no member is left behind. 6. Tradition Meets Innovation Post 1 honors the traditions of service while adapting to meet today’s veterans’ needs. Whether you served in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, or elsewhere, you’ll find belonging here. 7. Be Part of Something Bigger Joining Post 1 means being part of the first and oldest VFW post in America—a true piece of veteran history. Here, every member helps continue the mission of service, advocacy, and community leadership. 👉 At VFW Post 1, you’re not just joining a post—you’re joining the very foundation of the VFW.
Benefits of VFW Membership
🎖 1. Advocacy & Representation The VFW is one of the most powerful voices for veterans in Washington, D.C. and at the state level. Membership directly supports efforts to protect and expand VA healthcare, disability compensation, education benefits, survivor support, and military family programs. 🤝 2. Camaraderie & Belonging Be part of a trusted community of veterans who understand your service and sacrifice. Local Posts provide a supportive, family-like environment where friendships last a lifetime. 🛠 3. Direct Support & Assistance VFW Service Officers help veterans navigate VA claims and benefits at no cost. Access to Unmet Needs grants and other financial assistance programs for veterans and their families. Transition and employment support for those re-entering civilian life. 📚 4. Education & Youth Programs Scholarships and contests like Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen help veterans’ families and inspire future generations. Opportunities to mentor and guide young people in your community. 🏡 5. Community Engagement Members actively serve their communities through volunteering, civic projects, and patriotic events. A chance to continue your service beyond the military. 💼 6. Professional Growth & Leadership Opportunities to hold leadership roles at the Post, District, State, and National levels. Develop organizational, public speaking, and project management skills. 💰 7. Member Discounts & Perks Access to exclusive travel, insurance, financial, and retail discounts through the VFW member benefits program. Savings can more than offset the cost of annual dues. 🕯 8. Honor & Legacy Membership preserves the legacy of those who served before us. You’ll help ensure veterans’ sacrifices are remembered, honored, and respected for generations to come.
Why VFW Life Membership Is Better Than Annual Dues
1. Save Money Over Time Annual dues = $50 per year. Stay a member for 20 years and that’s $1,000 out of pocket. A Life Membership often costs less than that total, meaning you save money in the long run. 2. One-Time Investment, Lifetime Membership Pay once and you’re a member for life. Never worry about dues notices, late payments, or membership lapsing. 3. Protection From Dues Increases Annual dues can (and do) go up. Lock in your membership cost now and avoid paying higher rates in the future. 4. Convenience & Peace of Mind No more paperwork or reminders. Always in good standing with the VFW, automatically. 5. Flexible Payment Options Life Membership can be paid in full or through a 12-month installment plan, making it affordable for any budget. 6. Extra Recognition Life Members receive a distinctive gold-embossed card and are often recognized at Post events. Many Posts honor Life Members with pins, certificates, or plaques. 7. A Lasting Legacy Life Membership shows your permanent commitment to veterans. Your support strengthens the VFW for future generations.