The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is the largest organization of combat veterans in the United States. The VFW was founded for one, single purpose: to assure those who’ve protected our country are protected in return. This protection comes in the form of programs, standing up for veterans’ rights in Washington, D.C., and reaching out with help in our community.
The hard truth is the Glenn A. Warner Post 1371 Veterans of Foreign Wars can’t do it all and urgently needs more resources from all veterans who are eligible for membership.
The Owego VFW strives to continue to do good things for deserving people – our veterans, their families and their communities. VFW members work every day to make a difference. It’s the VFW’s strength as an organization. And, with each individual membership, the VFW grows stronger.
There are three primary requisites for membership in the VFW: 1) a United States Citizen or U.S. National, 2) Honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States, and 3) Those serving honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces in a foreign war or overseas operation recognized by a campaign medal.
Veterans are eligible if in Korea after June 30, 1949, and recipients of hostile-fire or imminent danger pay. Veterans of World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, Lebanon, Persian Gulf and Iraq, Kosovo, Afghanistan, and other smaller expeditionary campaigns, as well as occupation duty, qualify.
If you meet these requirements and wish to join, follow these few easy steps. Contact the Owego VFW to sign up. Go to the post located at 207 Main St. or call the Post at 687-1371 for an application. Quartermaster Dave Bensley will make sure it is mailed to your home and will follow up with you if you have questions. By joining now, the Owego VFW pays your first year dues and your new membership will be valid for a full calendar year.
A new Facebook Page is on line. Access VFW Post 1371 for updates.
Owego VFW Post 1371 has plenty of volunteer opportunities for you to consider. Among them a Post Officer, Honor Guard for Funeral Honors for deceased veterans’ wake, funeral or burial. March in veterans and community parades. Post Colors at dinners and ceremonies, and much more.
Nearly every day, American veterans arrive home from Iraq or Afghanistan. The environment they return to makes a real difference in how the transition home goes. War zone veterans, their families and their communities would benefit from everyone getting involved and creating a welcoming, thoughtful and helpful environment.
Tell us more what the community can do to make a difference in the lives of returning war zone veterans.
In your own words, write your ideas and email to VFW Post 1371 Memorial Day Chairman jraftis2@stny.rr.com.
