VFW / American Legion Younger Veterans?

Question

I'm a 24 year old veteran of OIF. Since transitioning back to civilian life I find my closest friends I've got besides my buddys from growing up have been other veterans my age. I've gone to a few VFW's and American Legions but really didn't feel at home and welcome with the Vietnam, Korea, and WWII Veterans. Any other veterans out there been to a legion or VFW latley and experience something positive or know of any new organizations started by our generation?

Answer 1

I am a member of the VFW, and I have to say that I know there are a lot of older members. It stems from what many consider to be a lack of interest among people of our generation. There are recruiting drives going on now for vets who are eligible, but the impact of that is months away perhaps years. See what your post is doing to reach out to vets in our age group, and how you can help. Also be as active as you can in the organization, dont just show up to drink a beer every other week, be proactive and get your friends to join. When I first joined I was a little put off by the way people were, but within a week or two I was just as big a part of the post as anyone else was, even the crusty guys who had been there for 30 years or more.


Shoot me an email if you want to know more.

Answer 2

This is always an issue.

Depends on the state, city and more.

If you do not feel comfortable then it may be a lousey chapter-post or "wrong night".

Cities that have several chapters likely have one that it more Iraq/Gulf vets.

If the "membership" official is a dork, well he will likely not tell where the Iraq vets go. Ask at the Vets Center with the VA.

As to how I feel reading this? I want to lock & load on any that cause any Iraq vet ill feelings. After all the grief I and many Vietnam Vets recieved from what we called "The Class of 1945", well it is sad.

San Antonio my home for years before I retired back to Colorado had great VFW's. But I was from Southern Colorado and fit in with the Latino posts. I am very "white bread".

Now, I will get off my tail and check out what is going on in my small city. Not that it will help you but at least I can ensure that vets in town know what vets places are ok.

They will have to change the music, diversions, again i will let the folks know as to what is up at places that will spread the word.

Do let the DAV know if a DAV Chapter is on your list: email them Nationally. I hope that is one you do not belong to :-)

At Fort Carson, the first year of Iraq the VFW and such had a table at the PX, not seen one in several years. That tells me something. I am retired so I volunteer via a few units and such.

Anyway I thought the VFW was a joke until I found the "right" Post in my towns. I know more than a few Vietnam vets are going to be saddened by your question.

All My Best! "Doc'

Answer 3

It will be that way for a while. The VFWs are usually populated by older men - mostly because there hasn't been a large influx of veterans until recently. Over time I feel that we OIF Veterans will have larger numbers within the VFW. I've been wanting to check out our local post, but haven't yet. Its doubt that there is any animosity towards you...and I would listen to those guys a lot - wealth of wisdom

Answer 4

I'm a OIF Vet too and it looks from your name your from Chicago too. I've had a hard time finding a place here but my hometown in Michigan had a great VFW... I'm going to post a question about Chicago VFW / Am Legions keep an eye out for it maybe we'll find a place otherwise you can E-mail me maybe we should go check some out together.

Answer 5

I am a member of the VFW and am looking for a post that is more than a bar.

I joined up expecting to get involved in community service type events and not to drink in a smoke filled bar.

Answer 6

Yes and once you get to know the older Vets, you'll love it! They are the ones fighting to keep the standards and help those still in Boots! Stick with it and participate in the process!