VFW Press Releases

1. VFW Joins TikTok's 'Veteran Voices' Initiative

   KANSAS CITY, Mo. -The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to announce the launch of its TikTok channel, joining nine fellow veteran-serving organizations as part of TikTok's new "Veteran Voices" initiative. Veteran Voices focuses on key challenges afflicting the military and veteran community - mental health, affordable housing, and employment. Together, these trusted organizations will leverage TikTok's influential community of creators and engage audiences to provide critical support to those in need.

   "In this day and age, many veterans aren't going to walk into a VFW Post, so you have to meet them where they are," said VFW National Commander Al Lipphardt. "Nothing beats a warm handshake and looking someone square in the eye to let them know you care about them. But if we want to have that chance, we need to let them know first we exist. In joining TikTok's Veteran Voices campaign, we now have a platform to connect with service members and young veterans where they like to link up, consuming the content they care about."

   Veteran-serving organizations supporting the Veteran Voices initiative alongside the VFW are: America's Warrior Partnership, Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Independence Fund, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Student Veterans of America (SVA), Team Rubicon, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) and Wounded Warrior Project.

   In addition to providing comprehensive training tailored specifically for nonprofits, which includes guidance on LIVE, content creation, and platform safety to maximize their impact and reach on the platform, TikTok will also be launching a newly updated donation sticker this fall, allowing users to support the organizations above. This feature will empower its online community to contribute directly to causes they support and create a community dedicated to making a meaningful impact.

   One in three U.S. veterans report using TikTok monthly based on data available via GWI Core, measured in Q2 2024 among internet users ages 16-64. Through continued collaboration with nonprofit organizations, creators, and our TikTok community, we look forward to continuing to raise awareness and foster a community where veterans are supported - during Veterans Day and beyond.

   Be sure to follow the VFW on TikTok and help us raise awareness and make an even bigger impact #FORVETERANS.

2. VFW Action Alert: Pass the Dole Act Now

   H.R. 8371, the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, would provide enhancements to critical health care services for veterans and caregivers who need help now and cannot wait any longer.

   It has bipartisan support in the Senate but is not supported by Democrats in the House. Contrary to certain opposing voices, this IS a good piece of bipartisan-negotiated legislation that had input from numerous organizations representing veterans, caregivers, and survivors from around the country.

   To get this important piece of legislation passed, we need your help! Contact your elected representative and strongly urge them to vote in favor of H.R. 8371 today!

3. Message from the VFW National Commander on General Election Results

   WASHINGTON - "In the 125-year history of the VFW, we have witnessed the transfer of power of the highest office of our nation 21 times. It has not always been easy. But despite wars and rumors of war; assassinations and assassination attempts; depressions, recessions, and economic turmoil; political upheaval and sharp divisions, our country has consistently moved forward as one nation.
   
   While half the country may be celebrating, the other half may feel left behind. Thankfully, Election Day came and went and Americans peacefully made their voices heard once more.
   
   Now is the time for Americans to show our mettle to the rest of the world, leading by example of what democracy truly means. "We the People" of the United States can and will keep striving for a more perfect Union.
   
   On behalf of the more than 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary, we look forward to working with the Trump-Vance administration in promoting a strong, all-volunteer military and upholding America's promise to care for our veterans and ensuring they receive the benefits they earned supporting and defending the Constitution of the United States.
   
   I have personally reached out to both President Trump and Vice President-elect Vance, a fellow VFW member, to not only offer my congratulations on their election, but to offer the VFW's insight on military and veterans' affairs, as we seek to continue our important work to honor and serve those who defend our democratic principles."

4. VFW Reminds Americans that Freedom Isn't Free

   WASHINGTON -For the members the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), as well as the millions of Americans who have worn the cloth of our military, all veterans share a common bond, having raised their right hand and solemnly sworn an oath to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States."

   No matter if they served for a few years or a few decades, all veterans have sacrificed something to serve their country, and if called upon, to lay down their lives in defense of it. And on Monday, the VFW honors their contributions and sacrifices while calling on all of our nation's citizens to remember that the freedoms we all enjoy are not free.

   Maintaining the strength of the American idea requires courage, constant vigilance and sacrifice, and it's important to remember why we have Veterans Day in the first place. Originally called Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I, Veterans Day was officially adopted in 1926 through a congressional resolution. It became a national holiday 12 years later by similar congressional action. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming Nov. 11 as Veterans Day, and since then, Veterans Day has come to acknowledge veterans of all wars, and then all who once served in the U.S. military.

   For the VFW, Veterans Day is an opportunity to publicly commemorate the contributions of our veterans and to show appreciation toward them. But beyond the free meals, discounts, tributes and platitudes given to veterans on this day, there is also an opportunity to truly show them our appreciation. We are free because of those selfless few who have taken an oath to protect and defend their nation.

   So this Nov. 11, the VFW encourages every American to reflect on the true cost of freedom, and take the opportunity to keep alive the memories, sacrifices and accomplishments of our nation's veterans. Happy Veterans Day.

5. Happy Birthday, Marines!

   WASHINGTON -On Nov. 10, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) joins in with our grateful nation in celebrating the birthday of the United States Marine Corps, whose members, from the halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli, have fought our country's battles in the air, the land and sea for the past 249 years.

   On Nov. 10, 1775, the Continental Congress resolution calling for "two Battalions of Marines be raised" for service as landing forces for the fleet, would give birth to the Continental Marines. Since then, the Few and the Proud have answered our nation's call, participating in every single U.S. conflict, fighting for freedom across the globe, and racking up an impressive record of "battles won." Respected by our allies, feared by our enemies, and revered by all Americans, the U.S. Marine Corps has earned the reputation as the finest fighting force the world has ever known.

   Please join the more than 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary in saying happy 249th birthday and 'thank you' to every U.S. Marine both past and present, knowing full well there is no such thing as a former Marine - in fact, according to the VFW Adjutant General, "They are infiltrating the civilian population as sleeper agents of the Commandant."

   Semper Fi!