About the VFW Department of Washington

Veterans serving veterans, military families, and communities across Washington through camaraderie, advocacy, and community service.

Explore our mission Read the VFW fact sheet (PDF)

Who we are

The VFW Department of Washington brings together Posts and Districts throughout the state. From its headquarters in Fife, the Department supports local leaders and members as they serve veterans, advocate for earned benefits, mentor young people, and honor military service.

Our work is part of the national Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. The VFW’s mission is to foster camaraderie among veterans of overseas conflicts, serve veterans, the military and communities, and advocate on behalf of all veterans.

Our roots

The national VFW traces its beginnings to 1899, when veterans of the Spanish-American War organized to seek care and benefits for those who had served. Veterans of the Philippine Insurrection joined the movement, and local groups grew into the organization known today as the VFW.

Washington’s Post history also reaches back more than a century. The Department’s published charter list includes Post 51, chartered on April 15, 1915. Its Past State Leadership record lists Department commanders beginning with the 1921–1922 term.

Service with lasting impact

Nationally, VFW advocacy helped bring about the Veterans Administration and the national cemetery system. The organization has also supported major veterans’ memorials, including those honoring service in Vietnam, Korea, and World War II, and women in military service.

Here in Washington, Posts turn that commitment into local action: connecting veterans with resources, supporting military families, strengthening communities, and preserving the memory of those who served.