There are many concerns within the veteran community that require assistance. The 2014 census revealed that there were 49,993 homeless veterans in America. (“The President’s 2016 Budget: Fact Sheet on Homelessness Assistance” 7) In 2015 the veterans’ hospital in Phoenix, AZ was highlighted because it was discovered that more than 200 people died while awaiting treatment. ("Report: 200 Veterans Die Waiting for Care at Phoenix VA as They Build New Backlog of Cases - Conservative Daily Review.") The Veterans of Foreign Wars is an organization that strives to be a leader in combating the issues veterans face. Since these shocking statistics, the VFW has implemented programs to combat homelessness …show more content…
(A Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Denver Trades Beer for a Sun Salute) Of this older generation of veterans, there is no particular service affiliation, no set rank or time served in the military. The main event that tied them all together was war during the Vietnam Era. This is an extremely diverse group of individuals from military retirees to those who served for just a few years. This is important because even though it is a diverse group, the ideals among them are consistent with honoring all aspects of military service. Post Commander Terry Harvey shared his enthusiasm with me that the members of his post have become a family. His leadership role has influenced the “come in a stranger, leave as family” mentality. This goes to show that no matter the background, the VFW and its members honor one another and are united by …show more content…
There are many examples of how the VFW honors its veterans and their service. The local post can also serve as a support group, allowing veterans to honor one another by being there when someone needs assistance and build relations with those who have the same overseas experiences. All of these benefits require funding. The VFW is able to continue by monthly fees which enables members to honor their fellow veterans by funding an organization that continues to serve. The VFW is successful at this because the members that comprise the funded organization are the ones that directly are impacted from these