09/29/2026
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Today we honor National Veterans of Foreign Wars Day, September 29 — a day that marks the founding of the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization in 1899. What began as small, local groups of veterans returning from the Spanish‑American War and the Philippine‑American War grew into a nationwide organization dedicated to supporting those who served overseas. These early veterans came home without medical care, without pensions, and without the benefits later generations would receive. They banded together to make sure no one who served in foreign conflict would ever be forgotten or left without support.
Over the decades, the VFW became one of the most influential veterans’ organizations in the country. They fought for better medical treatment, fair compensation, and recognition for service members. Their advocacy helped shape major legislation, including the creation of the Veterans Administration and the GI Bill, which transformed the lives of millions of veterans returning from World War II and beyond. The VFW also became a community hub — a place where veterans could gather, share stories, find camaraderie, and stay connected to the values they carried from their service.
Today, VFW posts across the United States continue that mission. They support active‑duty service members, help veterans navigate benefits, provide community outreach, honor fallen heroes, and preserve the history of American military service. National VFW Day is a moment to recognize all of that — the advocacy, the service, the sacrifice, and the generations of veterans who stood together to make life better for those who came after them.
Remembering the founding of the VFW today means honoring every veteran who served overseas and acknowledging the organization that has stood by them for more than 125 years. Thank you to all who have served.
