The roster of VFW veterans is a most impressive listing of the many members who not only served in wars, but they continued their service to the country by becoming part of the VFW organization. While we can never know the entire roster, certain former members names will stand out because of the role they played after their tours were done.

There are eight of the United States Presidents who served in the military, then when coming back home, joined the VFW in their various states. Each President fought in a certain war. The list begins with Theodore Roosevelt who fought in the Spanish American War. Harry S, Truman was in World War 1, Dwight D. Eisenhower, World War 11, John F. Kennedy also World War 11 as were Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard M. Nixon, Gerald R. Ford and George H.W. Bush.

Former Senate majority leader, Robert Dole became a VFW life member. He was best known as being a politician from Kansas and is also one of the most famous 10th Mountain Division veterans of World War 11, earning 2 Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star with a V device during his World War 11 service. Before his death in 2021, he had been a 55 year life member of Post 6240 in Russell, Kansas.

If these men joined the VFW after their military service, it should be an eye opener to many of the current military personnel now serving, that the VFW organization is worthy of their time and consideration. Imagine, if these former leaders of our country believed in the organization, they must have known it was something to be proud of and also to become a participating member.

Over the years, the FW has worked to make civilian life easier for those returning from the horrors of wars which were fought, especially those far from home. The national Organization is always working in Washington D.C. to fight for the rights all veterans deserve.

If you are a veteran who has had “boots on the ground” in any conflict, or are related to one who served in that capacity, take a ride to the VFW Post 4174 in Lehigh Acres, located at 25 S. Homestead. Find out all the positive reinforcements which are available for you. You’ll be glad you did!