Eligibility for Membership |VFW Post 8790

VFW Membership Eligibility

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) stands apart from other veteran organizations due to its unique and rigorous membership qualifications. We take immense pride in these standards, which honor the sacrifices and achievements of our members.

Joining VFW Post 8790 means more than just a membership - it's about belonging to a legacy of service, camaraderie, and dedication to our nation's heroes. As a member, you'll stand shoulder to shoulder with fellow veterans from all eras, building connections that last a lifetime while making a meaningful impact in the Houston community.

At Post 8790, we're not just honoring the past—we're actively shaping the future. From advocating for veteran rights and organizing community events to supporting local heroes and their families, your membership fuels our mission to serve those who have served.

Whether you're seeking camaraderie, community involvement, or a platform to champion veteran causes, we invite you to join our ranks and be a part of something greater. Together, we honor the sacrifices of yesterday, serve the needs of today, and inspire the leaders of tomorrow.

Your journey with VFW Post 8790 starts here.

Membership Requirements

To qualify for membership in the VFW, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. U.S. Citizenship

Applicants must be citizens of the United States.

2. Honorable Military Service

You must have served in the Armed Forces of the United States and either received a discharge of Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) or be currently serving.

3. Overseas Service

Applicants must have served overseas in a capacity that qualifies for a recognized campaign medal, or meet other criteria outlined in the VFW Congressional Charter or bylaws, including:
- Award of a campaign medal or service medal.
- Receipt of a Combat Action Ribbon.
- Service under imminent danger or hostile fire pay conditions.
- Service in Korea after June 30, 1949, to the present.

Verifying Eligibility

To determine eligibility, applicants may reference their service records:

For WWII era veterans: Discharge papers typically list earned medals and decorations on the back.
For later service members: The DD-214 "Report of Separation" form includes a section displaying medals and decorations.

Lost Documents?

Replacement of lost documents, such as the DD-214, can be requested by completing the Standard Form 180 ("Request Pertaining to Military Records").
If your service records contain omissions, you can request a correction by submitting a DD-149 or Standard Form 180.

Proof of Eligibility

Applicants must provide documentation that supports their eligibility. Accepted forms of proof include:

DD-214 (Member 4 Copy)
DD-215
201 File or Equivalent Military Record

If you lack these documents, our Quartermaster or Service Officer can assist you in obtaining the necessary proof through official channels like the National Archives eVetRecs or by submitting Standard Form 180 (SF-180).

If you have misplaced your DD-214, you can request a copy following the instructions below. Additionally, if you need to correct your military records or verify entitlements, such as unlisted medals, you can submit either a DD-149 or SF-180.

Requesting Military Records

To retrieve your service, medical, or awards records:

Complete the Standard Form 180 (available in PDF format online and requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)
Mail the form to the designated address listed on the document.
For more details on requesting service record information, visit the National Archives and Records Administration website.

Join Today!

If you meet the eligibility requirements, we invite you to join VFW Post 8790. Visit us during regular business hours to speak with an officer about membership.

We welcome all qualified applicants and look forward to having you join our mission to honor and support veterans.

If you have any questions, please email vfwpost8790@gmail.com or stop by during regular business hours.