In a big city, Legions, VFW, or other?

SGT Scott Fowler — Tue, 28 May 2024 14:01:38 -0400

I am a member of both (Legions and VFW) organizations. I live in a big city and feel when visiting there is a huge group of members that show up. I feel my calling is for a smaller group. Am I wrong to feel this way? I want to help the veterans in need. What should I do?

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made May 28 at 2024 9:58 PM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Tue, 28 May 2024 21:58:43 -0400

I avoid Big Cities anytime that I can. In our area, we have a somewhat active VFW post with nice folks, but kinda standoffish to visitors, and we have a couple of very active Legion posts that are always doing some type of community events. I work at the local live radio station and see all three when we have them in for the Morning show to talk about the events they are hosting. I have been a VFW member in the past and am leaning more to the American Legion, but the VFW is 3 miles from the house and they have a bar, so weigh your options. I would listen to the local live radio station to see which posts are most active in the area and go visit. Good Luck

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made May 28 at 2024 11:29 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Tue, 28 May 2024 23:29:51 -0400

I am a life member of a VFW, but have never attended - I live in Denmark, the VFW I am a member of is Post 3886 in Caldwell, Idaho, where I grew up. It is my "connection" to home. You are lucky, you get to attend a group, be with members, Vets, talk, swap stories, have a drink, get to talk. These are all the things I miss. I am here, no vets around where I live, no chance to be with others, talk, kick back, what ever. You need to be thankful you have such a problem, I wish I had that problem. Only thing I got is "online". Very impersonal, no contact. Once a year I go to Portugal, got a very good friend, VN Vet I became good friends with. For 10 days a year I get to have some of that contact. You should be so lucky to have to worry about what kind of VFW/Legion you want to join. Maybe you might want to dig in and lend a hand, man a booth, sell some poppies, get involved with some activities while you are deciding on if you want a big or little group.