American Legion and VFW - organizations worth joining

[SPOONMINNOW]

I recently joined the American Legion and was surprised the warm welcome I got. Two members I already knew introduced me as the fisherman. I wish I had known of the association long before now especially in winter when meeting fellow vets and swapping stories helps neutralize boredom and depression. In fact, members from two posts (about 20 guys) meet twice a week for breakfast at a local diner that gives vets a discount. Four vets said they would like to go fishing. I also attend another post's meetings but can only be a card-carrying member of one post at a time. Same warm welcome.

I've been finding veteran discounts such as Dunk'n Donuts, my heating oil company (which required that I send a copy of my DD-214 by email (SSN blacked out), auto repair shop (Mavis Tire) and my local supermarket. I just show them my veteran ID card.

Worrisome are the cuts to federal depts. The VA hospital I worked in for 18 years, is having to shut down its substance abuse clinic, forcing vets to travel over 80 miles to a V.A. hospital in N.Y.C. Someone told me I might be eligible for hearing aids, drugs, glasses, checkups and other services through the V.A. regardless of the fact I don't have a disability. Unfortunately I don't qualify because my retirement income exceeds the limit. Any vet should at least apply on-line or at a V.A. Hospital. Can't hurt.

[mysuzytoo]

The VA has always taken good care of me. I've been under the impression that a veteran has to have served in actual combat to be eligible for membership in American Legion and VFW. Am I wrong? We have a really active VFW post here in my area, but I never pursued becoming a member because I never served in a war zone.

[BOATS]

The VA has always taken good care of me. I've been under the impression that a veteran has to have served in actual combat to be eligible for membership in American Legion and VFW. Am I wrong? We have a really active VFW post here in my area, but I never pursued becoming a member because I never served in a war zone.

Negative, Americon Legion you have to have served during time of conflict, they have a list.

[mysuzytoo]

Negative, Americon Legion you have to have served during time of conflict, they have a list.

Thanks Chief!

[Aj14]

The VA has always taken good care of me. I've been under the impression that a veteran has to have served in actual combat to be eligible for membership in American Legion and VFW. Am I wrong? We have a really active VFW post here in my area, but I never pursued becoming a member because I never served in a war zone.

The American Legion will also accept sons or daughters of a veteran.

[BOATS]

Thanks Chief!

Welcome shipmate.

[Crestliner16]

In my time, the nearest VA hospital was over and hour and a half, one way. I didn't drive and the Navy Reserve was tasked to drive me there and back and only on Thursday's.
After missing two appointments, I received a telegram that my 85% disability could be at risk! The VA low life in town wasn't worth talking to. Then I met a guy that was a member of the VFW who offered to help me with my situation. He took me to his post and I was amazed by the way so many guys offered to help with anything I needed.
I was very impressed by how fair they were.
A couple of guys helped with physical therapy by actual doctors and therapist's on their own time.
After nine months I was able to get a good job at the steel mill and I bought a car before I had my driver's license ��! Great guys that really understood and cared. My disability pay and percentage kept getting lowered and after a while, I took a buy out,without prejudice. In 2003 I reapplied for covered benefits and the VFW pointed me in the right direction of a legal counsel and in November of 2004,I was awarded full treatments for my health issues caused by my services in the Navy.
I'd say that it depends on the post, and how active the members are.
I was fortunate enough to find a great bunch of people. Unfortunately these guys are dying too fast.
The younger guys are trying their best with members from Desert Shield and Storm, to Afghanistan and Iraq.
It's more than PTSD, with the better technology comes physical harm. Especially the never ending burning of waste and munitions.