There are two qualifiers for membership in the VFW, as set out in our National Bylaws. An individual must meet both to become a member.

1: Honorable Service – must have served in the Armed Forces of the US and either received a discharge of Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) or be currently serving.

2: Service in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or in hostile waters*. This can be proven by any of the following:

- An authorized campaign medal, Receipt of Hostile Fire Pay or Imminent Danger Pay (verified by a military pay statement), or Service in Korea for 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days

*This information is usually available through a veteran’s DD-214. If other information is needed or if a veteran’s DD-214 is not complete, they can contact the National Personnel Records Center online or at 314.801.0800 to request more information.