VFW Press Releases

1. VFW Celebrates 249 Years of Freedom

   KANSAS CITY, Mo. - This Independence Day, as we celebrate 249 years of freedom, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) calls upon all Americans to pause and reflect on the profound origins and ongoing significance of our nation.

   Nearly two and a half centuries ago, courageous, revolutionary acts birthed a nation founded on the radical ideals of liberty and freedom. This annual observance is more than just a milestone; it is a powerful reminder of the inherent rights of our citizens and the enduring principles that continue to define the American spirit and way of life.

   The signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, was a righteously indignant stand against oppression and tyranny, weaving the belief of our unalienable right to "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness" into the very fabric from which our nation was made.

   VFW members have personally upheld these very ideas on battlefields across the globe, and this Independence Day, the VFW urges every American to celebrate the freedom we enjoy and remember the brave men and women who continue to stand in harm's way to protect our way of life. In doing so, we honor the sacrifices of the past, just as our service members today continue to safeguard the liberties and freedoms of the future.

   Happy 249th birthday, America!

2. VFW Action Alert: Vote YES to Keep Veterans in their Homes

   On May 1, the Department of Veterans Affairs ended the Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase (VASP) program, which offered veterans a "last-resort" option for the Department to purchase delinquent home loans. The program lasted only one year and was intended as an emergency stopgap to stave off veteran foreclosures after the COVID-19 moratorium lapsed.

   Secretary Collins ended the program over mounting problems with administering VASP and the legal ambiguity of the program. Many in the veteran community understood the Secretary's rationale, but were clear that Congress should quickly work to present a responsible statutory solution to help veterans keep their homes. Thankfully, House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity Chairman, and VFW member, Rep. Van Orden was closely watching the situation and in March introduced a reasonable policy solution: H.R. 1815, VA Home Loan Program Reform Act. This offers a partial claim option through which VA would pay the delinquency on a veteran's loan and work with lenders to structure appropriate repayments to prevent veterans from defaulting and losing their homes.

   On May 19, the House passed Rep. Van Orden's bill without objection. We call on the Senate to pass the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act and keep veterans in their homes.

   Take action TODAY and tell your Senators to VOTE YES on H.R. 1815, VA Home Loan Program Reform Act to prevent veterans from losing their homes.

3. VFW Reaffirms Commitment to US Military as Conflict in Middle East Escalates

   WASHINGTON - Last night, the United States struck nuclear targets inside Iran.

   As tensions in the Middle East once again flare, the Veterans of Foreign Wars asks all Americans to keep our brave military men and women in their thoughts and prayers, as they serve in harm's way tonight.

   The VFW knows very well that our world remains a dangerous place. We will never forget the sacrifices of our all-volunteer force who, at this very moment, stand between our enemies and our shores.

   We will do everything in our power to support you and ensure that Americans understand the gravity of your sacrifices in defense of our liberties.

4. VFW Honors the United States Army's 250 Years of Valor

   KANSAS CITY, Mo. -The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and its Auxiliary proudly join a grateful nation as we honor and congratulate the United States Army on its 250th birthday. Since its inception on June 14, 1775, the U.S. Army has stood strong as the bedrock of our nation's defense, embodying courage, resilience and unwavering commitment.

   For two and a half centuries, American soldiers have selflessly answered the call to duty, from the battlefields of the Revolutionary War to the complex challenges of today's global frontlines. Their historical importance cannot be overstated: They have been instrumental in shaping the very fabric of our nation, protecting our freedoms and securing our country's future against all threats.

   On this monumental 250th anniversary of the Army, the VFW salutes every soldier, past and present, for their extraordinary dedication and profound sacrifices. The vital role they play in defending our nation and preserving liberty around the globe demands our deepest gratitude.

   The VFW encourages all Americans to join in celebrating this historic milestone, reflecting on the valor of those who have served in the U.S. Army, and to appreciate all their sacrifices for our nation, not just today, but every day.

   On behalf of the 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary, happy 250th birthday, soldiers!

5. VFW Urges Vets to Prioritize Mental Health During PTSD Awareness Month and Beyond

   KANSAS CITY, Mo. -As June marks PTSD Awareness Month, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is renewing its commitment to destigmatizing mental health challenges and encouraging all veterans to seek the support they need. The VFW stresses the critical importance of mental well-being, knowing when to ask for help and the unique healing power of connecting with and relying on fellow veterans.

   Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a real and often debilitating condition that can affect anyone who has experienced trauma, and it is particularly prevalent among those who have served in combat zones or endured other traumatic military experiences. Data shows that veterans experience PTSD at a higher rate than their civilian counterparts.

   While the wounds of war are not always visible, their impact on veterans' lives and the lives of their families can be profound. PTSD displays different for each person, with some experiencing intrusive memories, nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance behaviors or changes in mood and thinking.

   The societal stigmas surrounding mental health, including within in the military and veteran community, have made it difficult for many to admit they're struggling. This June, the VFW reminds veterans that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Navigating the complexities of PTSD and other mental health conditions can be a challenging and isolating journey, which is why connecting with brothers and sisters-in-arms who share similar experiences can be incredibly powerful. Within the VFW's nearly 6,000 Posts worldwide, veterans find safe spaces where they can share experiences without judgement, speak freely and receive authentic camaraderie.

   Throughout June, the VFW encourages all veterans, their families and communities to:

   • Educate themselves about PTSD and its symptoms.
   • Encourage open conversations about mental health within the veteran community.
   • Support veterans by listening, offering a helping hand and connecting them with resources.
   • Utilize available resources, such as the VA's PTSD programs, the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, then Press 1), and local VFW Posts.

   The 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary remain dedicated to advocating for robust mental health services and ensuring all veterans have timely access to the comprehensive care they need and deserve. This PTSD Awareness month and beyond, the VFW reminds veterans and anyone suffering, you are not alone... and you don't have to carry this burden by yourself.