Should Cold War Veterans be allowed to join the American Legion and the VFW?

SGT Nathaniel Hiller — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 00:00:23 -0400

Response by SSG John Bacon made Aug 7 at 2014 12:14 AM

SSG John Bacon — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 00:14:19 -0400

Any Veteran can join the American Legion. It's just the VFW you would have to have deployed in a Campaign Ribbon deployment.

2014/12/19 **Correction** Any veteran can Join AMVETS ---I was mistakng them with American Legion.

Response by CMC Robert Young made Aug 7 at 2014 12:15 AM

CMC Robert Young — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 00:15:24 -0400

I would say yes to the American Legion, but no to the VFW. The logic being that everybody who served during that period contributed to our national success; but the VFW remains the hallow hall of those who have actually experienced hostile fire.

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Aug 7 at 2014 2:43 PM

CPO Jon Campbell — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 14:43:28 -0400

Even if someone doesn't qualify for a campaign ribbon, they may still be able to join the VFW as long as they received Imminent Danger pay.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Aug 8 at 2014 7:50 AM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 07:50:54 -0400

I would say yes to the American Legion but no to the VFW, namely because it's named Veterans of Foreign Wars and while there were small instances off and on, there is a reason it was called the "Cold War". However, I do know that while I was stationed in Korea, there was a VFW chapter located there in country that would allow those who served in Korea to join, do not know the full ins and outs of either organization stateside though.

Response by SGT Thomas Lucken made Aug 8 at 2014 1:08 PM

SGT Thomas Lucken — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 13:08:21 -0400

I say depending on duty locations! Korea is already there for the VFW, but not the Legion.

I did not serve border duty on the E. German and Czech borders. Their incidents were alot less common then we had on the DMZ before 1991. But still was hazardous duty and dangerous if stepped the wrong way........

Vehicles were always uploaded with ammo and ready to go over there, as Korea was and still is.

And if you never served duty there during the Cold War, don't be so quick to judge. You don't know!!!!

Response by SFC Benjamin Parsons made Aug 8 at 2014 1:20 PM

SFC Benjamin Parsons — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 13:20:11 -0400

I could be wrong here. The VFW has always welcomed all vets - at least in my experience.
The American Legion didn't open it's doors to all vets until they began hurting for membership.
I respect any members of either, but my favor will always be VFW.
Not a member of either - but I think on it from time to time.

Response by 1SG Brad Crosslin made Aug 8 at 2014 1:20 PM

1SG Brad Crosslin — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 13:20:12 -0400

For SSG Bacon:

Here are the Legions membership requirements. It is for wartime veterans, not necessisarily combat veterans like the VFW.

Eligibility Requirements for American Legion Membership

If you are currently on active duty, serving the United States honorably, anywhere in the world, or have served honorably during any of the following eligible war eras, we invite you to become a member of The American Legion. National Guard and Reservists having been Federally activated (including basic training) during these same war eras also meet the eligibility requirements.
•Aug. 2, 1990 to today (Gulf War / War On Terrorism)
•Dec. 20, 1989 to Jan. 31, 1990 (Panama)
•Aug. 24, 1982 to July 31, 1984 (Lebanon / Grenada)
•Feb. 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975 (Vietnam War)
•June 25, 1950 to Jan. 31, 1955 (Korean War)
•Dec. 7, 1941 to Dec. 31, 1946 (World War II)
•April 6, 1917 to Nov. 11, 1918 (World War I)

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2014 2:20 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 14:20:08 -0400

I think the thing that bothers most vets is the dead space between 1975 and 1990. Most vets who served during this time are not eligible to Join the AL. I think any vet should be able to join the AL. Being "in" (but in many cases not actually being in a war zone) during times of war (as defined by congress) is not any bigger deal than having served during the cold war. Some could argue Cold War service (DMZ, Fulda Gap, etc.) was more intense/dangerous than serving state side during a declared war (which is an AL qualifier). I definitely don't think VFW criteria should be changed.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2014 2:57 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 14:57:48 -0400

VFW allows for a lot of veterans to join. Even submariners who earned their deterrence patrol pin meet eligibility. Should all veterans who served during the era of the cold war be allowed to join? Not the VFW in my opinion. I'm a Legion member myself so I can't speak for the VFW.

Here is the actual eligibility requirements.

http://www.vfw.org/uploadedFiles/VFWorg/Join/sept2012%20ElgibilityFolder2.pdf

Response by CPO Don Dunn made Aug 9 at 2014 5:03 PM

CPO Don Dunn — Sat, 09 Aug 2014 17:03:01 -0400

I am a member of both. Normally any veteran can join the legion, you must meet certain other criteria ( periods of service/ campaign medals, CAR, etc) to join the VFW.

Response by SPC Richard White made Aug 10 at 2014 4:30 PM

SPC Richard White — Sun, 10 Aug 2014 16:30:48 -0400

My answer is yes, because there are those who have served in hot places such as along the German border and Alaska.How many times have you had to stand to due to an imminent threat.Those who enlisted during this time period signed a blank check payable up to and including their lives.Speaking of which there were those who did lose their lives during this time period doing things for the US which are unspoken of.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Aug 16 at 2014 3:45 PM

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 15:45:56 -0400

Cold War veterans are allowed to join the American Legion.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2014 4:24 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 Aug 2014 16:24:37 -0400

SGT Hiller. We lost a lot of very fine highly committed people during the supposedly "cold" war. Most accepted their efforts would not be disclosed for many years - if they may ever be openly acknowledged. Some were lost while in uniform. Others were lost while undercover, out of uniform and/or seconded to a civilian agency. Some were lost at home while standing watch in their missile silos. Others were lost underwater, in the air, on land, or in between while stimulating the enemy to react, monitoring enemy response, shadowing enemy weapons platforms, or evading enemy weapons platforms, running a blockade, infiltrating or exfiltrating high value assets, foraging for crypto and/or nuclear materials on the deep sea floor, splicing into remote secure communication cables, on active assignment, or simply walking down the street while minding their own business between missions. Most were not seeking any recognition or awards for their work. Most were only acknowledged even after death by an anonymous star on a wall or a classified note in a file. In this sense, I would wonder about whether anyone may want to be a member of an organization that excluded officers and/or enlisted personal who put their lives on the line every day during the supposed "cold" war with no backup and no hazardous duty pay. Warmest Regards, Sandy

Response by SSG Jim Handy made Aug 17 at 2014 4:35 PM

SSG Jim Handy — Sun, 17 Aug 2014 16:35:23 -0400

We already do qualify in some situations, depends on when and where you served. For instance, anyone who has served in Korea for at least 180 days qualifies for membership in the VFW.

Response by SPC David S. made Aug 20 at 2014 2:39 PM

SPC David S. — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 14:39:51 -0400

No to the VFW as it is a special group for individuals that were in a combat deployment. The War in Cold War was politically and financially managed as apposed to a traditional armed combatants conflict. Also while there is a Cold War Victory Medal the Cold War Victory Medal is both an official medal of the National Guard and an unofficial military medal of the United States. It is awarded by the States of Louisiana and Texas, and in ribbon form only by the State of Alaska. However in the medal's unofficial capacity it can be purchased, but not worn in uniform (LA National Guard can were it in uniform but not on federal property). It may be worn by any member of the United States military, or civilian employees of the federal government, who served in their positions honorably during the years of the Cold War, specifically September 2, 1945 to December 26, 1991. There are no devices or attachments authorized for the Cold War Victory Medal. So while we recognize the victory it is not a service ribbon of the uniformed solider.

Response by CPO Dan Devlin made Aug 20 at 2014 3:56 PM

CPO Dan Devlin — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 15:56:27 -0400

I belong to the Legion and have for 30 years. Back then I tried to join the VFW. For proof of eligibility I brought in my DD214 which showed that I had a Navy Expeditionary Medal, which is one of the decorations recognized for membership. The person I was giving the application to asked what I had received the medal for. I told him it was a classified operation (which was true). He insisted I tell him, or he couldn't let me join. I told him I wouldn't breach national security to join his foolish organization and I left. I see VFWs closing all over the place, and it doesn't bother me a bit. They put themselves out of business.

Response by CPO Dan Devlin made Aug 20 at 2014 4:00 PM

CPO Dan Devlin — Wed, 20 Aug 2014 16:00:45 -0400

I have been a member of the American Legion for 30 years. Back in the 80s when I tried to join the VFW; I brought in my DD214 which listed the Navy Expeditionary Medal as one of my award, making me eligible for membership in the VFW. The person I turned my application into, asked what the medal was for. I told him that it was for a classified operation (which was true). He told me if I didn't tell him what the medal was for, I couldn't join. I told him that I would not breach national security to join some foolish organization. I then turned and left and joined the Legion. I see VFWs closing all around, and all I have to say is; they brought it on themselves.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2014 5:23 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 17:23:36 -0400

An alternative to those organizations would be to join AMVETS. Just my .02

Response by CW4 Dan Cady made Aug 31 at 2014 12:45 PM

CW4 Dan Cady — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 12:45:55 -0400

I believe that everyone that served honorably in one of the armed forces of the US should be eligible for the American Legion, period! That said, the VFW is an organization of those that served in a combat theater. I have been a member of both since 1972 and re-qualified twice more since then, not that I needed to :)

In 1972, the VFW was similar to the descriptions I have seen on this discussion, some good and some bad. I have received a great deal of support from my brothers and sisters in both organizations I recommend giving it a try and getting involved it one or the other, both if you have the time.

Response by MSG John Wirts made Sep 1 at 2014 11:43 PM

MSG John Wirts — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 23:43:20 -0400

VFW was established and chartered for Veterans Of Foreign Wars, not since the Civil War has there been a War on American soil. One qualifier for membership, is assignment to a combat theater.
The American Legion does not require combat zone assignment, so Cold War Veterans are welcome there.
I do not know about the requirements for AMVETS.

Response by SSG Maurice P. made Sep 19 at 2014 7:15 PM

SSG Maurice P. — Fri, 19 Sep 2014 19:15:34 -0400

YES THEY CAN JOIN THE AMERICAN LEGION...

Response by Maj Kim Patterson made Oct 31 at 2014 2:06 PM

Maj Kim Patterson — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 14:06:35 -0400

I walked into the local AL/VFW (they are combined in my small town) and was offered an application to be a waitress before I even opened my mouth.

Response by PO2 Steven Erickson made Oct 31 at 2014 6:20 PM

PO2 Steven Erickson — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 18:20:57 -0400

USN 1983 - 1989, Submarine Service

I am eligible for the American Legion, but not for VFW. I think that's appropriate. Closest I ever came to combat was as a "near site witness" to some Udaloys and Sovremmenys performing "hydro-acoustical mapping" off the Kamchatka Peninsula...

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 12 at 2014 2:57 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 14:57:37 -0500

Cold War Veterans can join the American Legion, unless this is some sort of exclusion...the difference I thought was no combat experience, you're stuck with the American Legion. VFW is for combat vets only.....Am I incorrect?

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Dec 13 at 2014 11:52 AM

CPT Jack Durish — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 11:52:13 -0500

Your question is very political. The truth is that war is hell, be it hot or cold. The Cold War was not ended until President Reagan fought it like a "real" war and won it (Oh, I can't wait to see how people jump on that observation). Maybe, the VFW should acknowledge that fact and accept those who served in the Cold War the same as they accept those who fought in hot wars.

Politically, it seems similar to the conundrum of those who were killed and wounded during the Fort Hood shooting. Initially branded "workplace violence", these victims were denied Purple Hearts. Now they are receiving them because of a change in the political climate.

I wonder if, by the same reasoning, we will return to the War on Terror after the Administration passes into new hands, and the same question asked here of Cold War service will apply to those who serve during the War on Terror.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2014 12:33 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 12:33:27 -0500

Yes and they should only be served Cold Drinks! No Vodka! Just American Beer and English whiskey.

Response by SFC Boots Attaway made Dec 14 at 2014 12:41 PM

SFC Boots Attaway — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 12:41:46 -0500

I say that those who served with the Berlin Bde, any unit that served ON the border between the East (USSR) and the West (NATO) or North of the Im Jim River in Korea should qualify for the VFW and any SM that served over seas should qualify for the American Legion.

Response by SSG Peter Muse made Dec 14 at 2014 6:54 PM

SSG Peter Muse — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 18:54:33 -0500

Lot's of interesting responses in this thread. I can see it was easy to get sidetracked from the original question and digress to the quality of the organizations, their practices and their local influences. I never joined the AL but am a life member of the VFW. My home chapter is in Germany and I haven't joined one since coming back stateside mostly because I do want to connect with a local group that is really working to help vets personally and professionally. As for should they open their doors to Cold War vets, I would say they are a private organization and their charter is their right to have and hold. Those who served from 1975 to 1990 don't fall within the scope of the organization and that's that. We can't call it war if it isn't and that's that. As for the quality of the organizations, I am sure there is another discussion out there or someone will start it soon enough!

Response by SA Harold Hansmann made Dec 14 at 2014 7:59 PM

SA Harold Hansmann — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 19:59:46 -0500

Don't see why they shouldn't be.

Response by COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM made Dec 15 at 2014 12:10 PM

COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 12:10:23 -0500

Member eligibility critiera for the American Legion and the VFW is something that both organizations are going to have to critically look at. A few data points:
- Organizations that do not grow will die. A good example Grand Army of the Republic (GAR). Very influential in the 1870s and 1880s but influence diminished as its members died off.
- Organizations that do not adapt will die. Many good examples of this but look at any top tier business that is no longer in business.
- The US population is about 322M as of 2014. The percentage of this population with military experience is generally less than 1%. Therefore there is a very small eligibility pool to begin with without making the pool even smaller and shallower.
- The "so what" of the above is that the American Legion and VFW should both expand their membership eligibility without losing their core identify or purpose. They both should also make an effort at both the strategic and tactical levels of recruiting younger members (read GWOT veterans) into their leadership in order to get new ideas and maintain relevancy. I do not currently sense that this is the case.
- I have been a member of both organizations since about 1998.

Response by SFC James Billings made Dec 16 at 2014 12:55 PM

SFC James Billings — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 12:55:23 -0500

I don't see why not as long you have honorable discharge. I am a member of both, the Legion, and VFW really need some new blood, and members. James Billings Retired US Army

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Dec 18 at 2014 6:10 PM

SSG Tim Everett — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 18:10:57 -0500

Yes, absolutely.

Response by A1C Noah Parr made Dec 20 at 2014 9:36 AM

A1C Noah Parr — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 09:36:53 -0500

Yes

Response by SSG Steve Vincent made Dec 22 at 2014 12:07 AM

SSG Steve Vincent — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 00:07:01 -0500

YES, I do not think it makes a difenance a warrior is a warrior . We a warriors must think about that in the U.S. Only 1 persent volenter in this country so if you have more than 6 months the yes I think so.

Response by SGT David Liles made Dec 26 at 2014 8:05 AM

SGT David Liles — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 08:05:26 -0500

Absolutely!

Response by SGT Edward Thomas made Dec 26 at 2014 9:52 AM

SGT Edward Thomas — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 09:52:11 -0500

I am a Cold War era veteran as well as post Cold War. I have been deployed to several hot locations. The VFW is Veterans of Foreign Wars. It must have been recognized as campaign ribbon/medal tour for VFW or CIB/CFMB.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2014 10:13 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 10:13:33 -0500

This makes me asks more questions. I am reading the comments and wonder many different things. I can't help but to get a sense of inclusion from this. I understand that the Cold War was not a tradition war but would military service during such an era be on par with service in Vietnam?

In addition to this would a soldier serving right now, during the GWOT and never deployed, also be able to join the VFW? What is the difference?

I understand there are many veteran groups out there. Some are more targeted than others. I don't see much of an issue with AL. But if the VFW wanted to limit those who are members to those who actually served in the military in a Foreign War I don't see an issue with it. I don't think that serving in the military is the same as serving in a combat area. It doesn't mean on is any less honorable but the nation ask more from those who are in a combat area in a war zone.

It reminds me of the Ranger Association. They have a regular membership and a associate membership. There are different levels of membership. I think that is a good way to put it to rest.

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Dec 26 at 2014 11:48 AM

LTC Paul Heinlein — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 11:48:53 -0500

SGT Nathaniel Hiller,

Yes. But, I'm pretty sure any veteran is eligible for the American Legion.

Response by SSG Mark Payton made Dec 26 at 2014 12:30 PM

SSG Mark Payton — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 12:30:46 -0500

to respond to SSG John Bacon - no - not everyone can join the legion because you have to have served during specific time periods. I served IN BETWEEN those and am not able to sign up with them so - yes I do believe cold war vets should be able to join the legion. the VFW on the other hand I understand their rules and believe they are correct

Response by CPO Bernie Penkin made Dec 26 at 2014 3:43 PM

CPO Bernie Penkin — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 15:43:54 -0500

I am a cold war veteran and Legion member. I once was told that I could join the VFW because I earned an expeditionary medal at Beirut.

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Dec 26 at 2014 4:07 PM

SGT Craig Northacker — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 16:07:03 -0500

I have no desire to join any organization that qualifies itself as an "elite" group (from VFW website). I grew up in Berlin in the 1960's. There was gunfire outside my school in Zehlendorf after the dogs barked and sirens went off indicating an escape attempt. Communists fired into West Berlin - they cut off food and water at will, had their Soviet bloc students at the Free University riot downtown, turning it into a combat zone. The Russians fired artillery periodically and drilled their tanks for lengthy periods to harass us, and their Migs would perform mock strafing missions or fly low at supersonic speeds so we were the recipients of sonic booms. My school was a haven for political refugees, including people who had escaped from the East and were in danger of being kidnapped and brought back into the DDR. They threatened us with invasions periodically, and performed a large number of kidnappings including in broad daylight in shopping areas. We had units deployed that went into the East - walking around a communist country while looking to blend in is harrowing and not for the faint of heart. I have been chased by communist soldiers with evil intent, and listened as Pan Am changed the story surrounding the shooting down of a new Pan Am 727 by the Russians in retaliation for the US not returning a late model Mig from a defecting Soviet pilot. We watched as Russian Migs buzzed our planes for the pure fun of it, watched their massive displays of military power, and rooted for our military and other intelligence units when they were performing missions under war conditions. Berlin when I was there was a hot Cold War - make no mistake on that. For people to be excluded from being involved at that location while a PX clerk who gets a campaign ribbon is welcomed is just plain stupid. The Russians displayed their extensive collection of WMD's in support of their stated intention to take over the world. We had biological and chemical warfare extensions from Nazi and Jap research during WW2, and threw in nuclear threats at the same time.
I was at the call-up of a National Guard unit when it being readied to be shipped to Afghanistan. We were there to help with legal or other problems, and VFW was only interested in signing up Guardsmen before they went overseas. I have the same problem when WWF decided to ignore all veterans pre 9/11. I was asked to meet with AL executives in DC to work on a national employment initiative. I finally found the individual in charge, and his only interest was in asking me what unit I served in and that he was in the toughest unit in Viet Nam. Watching hard-earned dues support intransigence is just not acceptable to me in any form.

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Dec 26 at 2014 4:08 PM

SGT Craig Northacker — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 16:08:29 -0500

Why would we want to? VVA and IAVA developed their own groups for their own needs-what kind of statements are those?

Response by Sgt Dale Cusack made Dec 27 at 2014 7:03 AM

Sgt Dale Cusack — Sat, 27 Dec 2014 07:03:31 -0500

As a life member of both organizations, more active in the AL and recent member of the VFW, I see problems for both organizations with membership if they do not change they requirements. Both organizations have problems attracting current active duty and recent veteran's of Afghanistan and Iraq wars. This was a problem with Viet Nam era veteran's while WWII veteran's were the majority of both organizations and has continued, what is the saying about history repeating itself?

A comrade in arms has suggested that the major organizations, AL and VFW specifically should merge as there is a large number of dual members between them, I am sure even the AMVETS and Marine Corps League has the same issue.

Our veteran's deserve a strong voice no matter when they served, we would not have the freedoms we have without a strong military whether they served during actual combat eras or in the times in between and a lot of the cold war veteran's are left out. I would like to add them to our organizations so we can help provide them the recognition they deserve.

Response by SPC Dean J. Thompson made Dec 28 at 2014 2:26 AM

SPC Dean J. Thompson — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 02:26:13 -0500

I believe that all cold war era veterans should be allowed membership in the American Legion. I also believe that if you served overseas during the cold war that VFW should open membership to them also. I was hoping that the military would of authorized a Cold War Defense Service medal by now. That Cold War certificate was such a slap in the face to all of the Cold War era Veterans.

Response by SFC John Mikelson made Dec 28 at 2014 11:09 AM

SFC John Mikelson — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 11:09:41 -0500

If you have a National Defense Service Medal you qualify for the Legion otherwise the AmVets

Response by SrA Larry French Sr made Dec 28 at 2014 11:27 AM

SrA Larry French Sr — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 11:27:33 -0500

Yes, indeed they should. I am a PUFL member in the American Legion, but was told that I could only be a Social Member of the VFW because I did not serve 30 days in an overseas combat zone. I served 3 years in Germany which supposedly doesn't count.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Jan 1 at 2015 12:18 AM

LTC Stephen C. — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 00:18:53 -0500

SGT Nathaniel Hiller, I think these organizations are free to set up their eligibility criteria and if one meets the criteria, then the individual can join.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2015 11:42 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 11:42:51 -0500

Cold war veterans? yes, The American Legion ... check out their site http://www.legion.org/join
VFW? you had to go to war... check out http://www.vfw.org/Join/Eligibility/
otherwise... No.
note, these are the OFFICIAL sites, anybody who tells you differently is selling you Lokshen.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 1 at 2015 12:43 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 12:43:03 -0500

I believe that if they served honorably they should be allowed to join. They served voluntarily when they didn't have to. We are all brothers and sisters

Response by 1SG Petet Barreto made Jan 1 at 2015 9:02 PM

1SG Petet Barreto — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 21:02:21 -0500

Cold War veterans are
Allowed to join the American Legion. The Legion is
Open to any honorably discharged veteran. However the VFW Was
charted by Congress to be a veterans organization specifically for those who served the nations wars overseas. That is a paraphrase of the charter. You must have received a expeditionary medal to include the Berlin service medal and the Korea service medal to be eligible for
Mbership in the VFW

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Jan 21 at 2015 1:05 PM

SGT Craig Northacker — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 13:05:44 -0500

I am not into organization politics, so I see no need to waste my time with silliness. I can join the AL but have not mostly because I am so busy with Vets-Help.org. VFW has rules I disagree with on a fundamental basis.

Response by Cpl Rick West made Feb 2 at 2015 5:11 PM

Cpl Rick West — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 17:11:58 -0500

Yes we should. The cold war was not as "cold" as people think.
As Marines we do things that people don't and won't know
were done.

So I say again. The "Cold War" wasn't as "Cold" as people think.

So yes they should. I served Marine Corps from "79/85".

Response by SGT Steven Eugene Kuhn MBA made Feb 2 at 2015 5:31 PM

SGT Steven Eugene Kuhn MBA — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 17:31:42 -0500

I believe all vets should be permitted to join the American Legion and anyone stationed outside CONUS should be permitted to join the VFW.

I am a combat vet but I went to war with my unit that I had been in since 86 in Germany, we had been pulling border duty on the East German Border, some ETS'ed in the 10 months between the wall falling and the Invasion of Kuwait by Iraq.

They are all brothers...(I was combat arms, we had no females, to explain the lack of "sisters")

Response by SPC Robin Price-Dirks made Feb 11 at 2015 1:00 AM

SPC Robin Price-Dirks — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 01:00:52 -0500

Yes they should but it really depends on the unit and the command staff they have. I served in Germany when Bader-Meinhof gang was active as well as some communist subversive organizations. I was threatened for being American, told we were locked down for our protection and was on duty and alerted when Gen. Haig was bombed in Frankfurt. I was told with absolute certainty in our local VFW (Calhan, Co) that if I didn't serve in Korea during my years of service (1978-1984) I couldn't join as I didn't serve in a conflict area. Yeah Right being told you had a life expectancy of 5 minutes because you were a lance missile base in the event of the cold war going hot isn't close to conflict.....sheeesh!!!

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 11:27 AM

GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad — Sun, 15 Feb 2015 11:27:02 -0500

Cold War Veterans can join the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars providing they meet the eligibility criteria.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 11:54 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Feb 2015 11:54:58 -0500

I definitely think they should be able to join the American Legion. I also think there should be a Cold War Victory Medal. You can't help it that there was no shooting war when you joined. But you offered you service to you country.

Response by SSG Leonard Johnson made Feb 15 at 2015 12:00 PM

SSG Leonard Johnson — Sun, 15 Feb 2015 12:00:42 -0500

I think it depends. Yes if you are in direct contact with the enemy during the Cold War, then of course you should be allowed to join.for example the bombing in the night club in Germany in the eighties. Whatever soldier was in that nightclub received purple hearts we had one in my unit that had one.
Just like today with the operations, you should not be allowed to join VFW unless it is a support role such as the auxiliary.
as far as I know, you are allowed to join the American Legionjoin

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 1:05 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Feb 2015 13:05:02 -0500

Nope, VFW has a different membership base and should stay that way.

Response by SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. made Feb 15 at 2015 7:51 PM

SFC Dan Sorrow, M.S. — Sun, 15 Feb 2015 19:51:51 -0500

I like the language used to describe the VFW...The Hallow Halls? LOL!!!

Only if "hallow halls" is defined as smoke filled bar with drunk veteran's. Wasn't impressed. Can see why so many are closing down. Plus, they're not changing to meet the needs and desires of the younger combat veterans.

Response by CPO Michael Callegri made Mar 17 at 2015 7:55 PM

CPO Michael Callegri — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 19:55:18 -0400

Yes. Just because it was the Cold War doesn't mean that you were not sent to areas where there was trouble. Just because they didn't call it a war or combat doesn't mean that it was not difficult or dangerous.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2015 8:27 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 20:27:58 -0400

I think so. You go where you are sent do what you're told. I encourage all Cold War vets to visit coldwarveterans.com. You can join the Cold War Veterans Association.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2015 10:59 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 22:59:25 -0400

Really....

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 17 at 2015 11:31 PM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 23:31:16 -0400

Legion yes. I think VFW requires service in a foreign war or action.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2015 10:06 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 22:06:36 -0400

Depends on how you define cold war veterans. In most cases they can join the Legion. They have a bunch of dates; but you don't need to have gone overseas and you only need 1 day inside those dates You do not need to be overseas for that. VFW requires you have been in specific overseas campaigns; that's a tradition that they don't want to compromise and what makes them unique from other vet organizations. I'm not even eligible-with 28 years reserve duty including 3 years active states. Question now is should VFW open it ranks to more; perhaps if they have an overseas cold war assignment (ie Germany) they should accept that.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 1 at 2015 6:11 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 18:11:06 -0400

Yes we should allow all Veterans to be in the American Legion. I am a member of post 507 and I believe that the VFW does a great job with war vets the legion should be for all others when never steeped foot in a theater of combat. there should be no wartime mandate. I was in 1991-1994 I was never in desert storm because it ended prior to me delayed entry program time. Why should I be allowed but not a colr war vet?

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made May 12 at 2015 2:37 PM

PO1 Glenn Boucher — Tue, 12 May 2015 14:37:29 -0400

So we should classify veterans based on the time and place they served and limit what organizations they can join? I mean I do understand if the organization is a retired officers association, sure no enlisted can join for obvious reasons.
The American Legion and VFW should be embracing Veterans who want to join.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 1:25 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 13:25:55 -0400

Since the organizations, (A.L. and V.F.W.), don't actually decide what constitutes "eligible service", yes, allow those who have served during those time periods that Congress has decided upon for eligibility to join.

I am personally eligible to join the A.L. but not the V.F.W. due to service dates that included two eligible periods, one in the R. A., the other in the Army Reserve, but no service, in combat on foreign soil during either period.

Response by SGT Thomas Lucken made Jun 28 at 2015 9:14 PM

SGT Thomas Lucken — Sun, 28 Jun 2015 21:14:49 -0400

If your eligible to be in the VFW, you should be able to join the Legion also! But that is not true!!! Legion does not recognize service in Korea, except for the actual Korean War 1950 to 1955!!!! And that is it! I know people who are in the VFW and can NOT join the Legion!!!!!!

Response by PFC William Slater made Sep 30 at 2016 5:57 PM

PFC William Slater — Fri, 30 Sep 2016 17:57:21 -0400

Yes

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Feb 4 at 2017 1:27 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 13:27:07 -0500

Why shouldn't they, they trained for the possibility of war, I served from '76-2000.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Feb 5 at 2017 11:44 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 11:44:02 -0500

They have invited me. I'm a Vietnam Era cold warrior. Only served overseas in Alaska.

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Feb 9 at 2017 1:06 PM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 13:06:03 -0500

I am a member of both organizations and I certainly believe they should all be eligible to at least join the Legion, Interesting enough I have a brother in law who was a Green Beret yet didn't served during recognized periods of service so is a member of The Son of the American Legion.

Response by SGT Thomas Lucken made Feb 9 at 2017 8:31 PM

SGT Thomas Lucken — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 20:31:27 -0500

Talking about the Cold War, please listen to the interview we did with Harold Mason this week. It is on till Monday March 13th. Harold served on the East German border 86 to 88 with 11th ACR, he tells what it is like to be there and the danger.... Then maybe judge on whether some need to be or not...

Response by CPO Michael Callegri made Feb 22 at 2017 3:52 PM

CPO Michael Callegri — Wed, 22 Feb 2017 15:52:48 -0500

In my humble opinion, the title alone is a reason to be allowed in the "Cold War." There were a lot of incidents during that time, that history may have forgotten where military people lost their lives. We had a bunch of terrorist hostage crises (one on a plane, another on a cruise ship). And other events. It may have been a "Cold War," but we still had the military handling things that did not happen at home.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Mar 5 at 2017 12:13 PM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Sun, 05 Mar 2017 12:13:38 -0500

Don't get this question at all. If they are veterans they are eligible to join. Doesn't matter when they served.

Response by SPC Woody Bullard made Mar 29 at 2017 3:34 PM

SPC Woody Bullard — Wed, 29 Mar 2017 15:34:27 -0400

After talking with the American Legion and the VFW I received the following information
on their membership eligibility. A honorably discharged cold war veteran who was on
active duty during a time of war such as Korea or Vietnam is eligible to join the American
Legion. These cold war veterans did not have to serve in Korea or Vietnam to be eligible
for membership. They just had to be on active duty during a time of war. This also made
those cold war veterans eligible for the National Defense Service Medal with ribbon. This
eligibility rule does shut out thousands of cold war veterans who did not serve during a
war time period from membership. VFW membership eligibility for a cold war veteran is
the veteran must have been on active duty in a "war zone" such as Vietnam in addition
to any other duty station. VFW membership is only for veterans who served in a "war zone".
I would like to see the American Legion open their membership to all cold war veterans and
not just the veterans who served during a war time period. The VFW is veterans of foreign wars
and should be restricted to veterans who served in a "war zone". Having said that I know guys
who are Vietnam "war zone" veterans who are eligible for the VFW and they saw as much combat
in Vietnam as I did in West Germany which is NONE!! Not all who serve in a "war zone" see combat.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made May 9 at 2017 11:11 AM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Tue, 09 May 2017 11:11:24 -0400

I guess this is for the political boy to decide.

Response by SPC Dean J. Thompson made May 9 at 2017 4:46 PM

SPC Dean J. Thompson — Tue, 09 May 2017 16:46:30 -0400

Would like to see the Cold War Defence Medal revived with this administration and President...Maybe even an executive order from the President requiring the services to present one to all Cold War era Veterans that served on active duty. Or even a Cold War Overseas Defense Medal for our Veterans that served around the world during the Cold War...

Response by SP5 Dave (Shotgun) Shockley made May 11 at 2017 1:37 PM

SP5 Dave (Shotgun) Shockley — Thu, 11 May 2017 13:37:51 -0400

I feel it was an invisible battle that was fought, and there was stress involved with many of our brothers. Some gave all, but we never heard about it. So I feel they should be allowed.

Response by SPC Joe Herring made May 11 at 2017 7:14 PM

SPC Joe Herring — Thu, 11 May 2017 19:14:11 -0400

During my service in West Germany there was a significant amount of Soviet-sponsored probing and violence conducted by groups against both NATO and US installations. The NATO kaserne at which I first served was attacked by supposed "protesters" upset that we were an ASP for tactical nuclear weapons.
While not shot during that incident, I was shot at (along with the rest of us who were mustered to guard the downrange bunker area) before the "protesters" were driven back into the treeline where German and Nederlander forces arrested many. (The German and Netherlands forces provided outer perimeter security while the warheads themselves were only under American command and control.)

We later discovered that the shots fired were from members of the Baader-Meinhof group who had been part of the agitators using the real protesters as cover to get close to the ASP and probe the defenses.

Response by SGT Peter Hayes made Aug 12 at 2017 2:42 PM

SGT Peter Hayes — Sat, 12 Aug 2017 14:42:39 -0400

Any veteran can join the American Legion you just have to have a DD214

Response by SPC Dean J. Thompson made Aug 21 at 2017 7:38 PM

SPC Dean J. Thompson — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 19:38:44 -0400

Members of the armed forces that served in Korea, Vietnam, Lebanon, Grenada and Panama between 1945 to 1991 are eligible for membership in the American Legion.
I do believe that anyone that served during the Cold War years should be eligible for membership.
I also believe that a Cold War Defense medal should be awarded also to all members of the armed forces.
Possibly a Cold War European and Cold War Asian Defence medal should be awarded and recognized by the VFW.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Oct 8 at 2017 11:34 AM

LTC John Griscom — Sun, 08 Oct 2017 11:34:40 -0400

Anyone who has the NDSM may join the AL. The VFW is Veteran of Foreign Wars, Foreign Wars being the key part and requirement.

Response by CPL Janice Hearn made Oct 23 at 2017 4:06 PM

CPL Janice Hearn — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:06:41 -0400

They are welcomed in the Forty and Eight.