MEMBERSHIP

Join the VFW

The Veterans of Foreign Wars brings together veterans who understand the meaning of service, sacrifice and camaraderie. Whether you are currently serving or your military service is behind you, we invite you to learn more about VFW membership and become part of an organization committed to serving veterans, military families and communities across Oregon and throughout the nation.


Are You Eligible?

To qualify for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, you must meet both of the following requirements:

1. Honorable Service
You must currently serve, or have served, in the Armed Forces of the United States and have received an Honorable discharge or a General discharge under honorable conditions.

2. Qualifying Service
You must have served in a war, campaign or expedition on foreign soil or in hostile waters.

Qualifying service may generally be established through:

  • An authorized campaign medal or badge;
  • Receipt of Hostile Fire Pay or Imminent Danger Pay; or
  • Service in Korea for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days.

Eligibility information is generally found on the veteran's DD-214. If the DD-214 is unavailable or incomplete, military records may be requested from the National Archives.

Review the complete VFW eligibility requirements

Request military service records from the National Archives


Membership Options

Choose the membership option that works best for you.

Annual Membership

Annual membership connects you with the VFW's worldwide network of veterans and provides access to camaraderie, advocacy, member resources, assistance and benefits.

National Member-at-Large dues are currently$45 per year.

Apply for Annual Membership

Life Membership

Life Membership represents a lifetime commitment to serving fellow veterans and eliminates the need for annual renewals.

  • Avoid annual dues and renewals.
  • Maintain membership in any VFW Post you choose.
  • Never pay a future increase in annual dues.

Life Membership may be purchased with a one-time payment or through an installment plan. The total cost is based on the applicant's age at the time of enrollment.

Learn About Life Membership

Legacy Life Membership

Legacy Life Membership allows current VFW Life Members to make a lasting contribution to the organization. Three levels are available: Gold, Silver and Bronze.

Legacy Life Membership provides an endowment in the member's name benefiting the member's Post, Department and the national organization. Memorial Legacy Membership may also be purchased in honor of a deceased VFW Life Member.

You must be a current VFW Life Member before applying for Legacy Life Membership.

Learn About Legacy Life Membership

VFW Member Benefits

VFW membership offers more than camaraderie. Members have access to a nationwide network of support, advocacy, resources and benefits.

  • Camaraderie with fellow veterans;
  • Veterans' advocacy at the state and national levels;
  • Assistance connecting with veterans' services and resources;
  • Opportunities to serve veterans and local communities; and
  • Member discounts, insurance programs and other benefits.

Explore VFW member benefits


VFW Auxiliary Membership

If you are not eligible for VFW membership, you may qualify for membership in the VFW Auxiliary through an eligible family member. Eligible relationships may include a spouse, parent, grandparent, child, grandchild or sibling.

The VFW Auxiliary supports veterans, service members, their families, and local communities through volunteer service, advocacy, youth programs, scholarships, and patriotic initiatives.

Honoring the VFW Legacy

Learn more about the history of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its longstanding commitment to veterans, service members and their families.

Watch the History of the VFW

Questions About Membership?

A local VFW Post can answer questions about eligibility, membership options, and help you complete your application.

Find a VFW Post