THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, February 21, 1996 TAG: 9602200283
SECTION: MILITARY NEWS PAGE: A6 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY DOUG GULRUD
LENGTH: Medium: 73 lines
Often, in our recruiting efforts for the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, we are asked if the organization is open only to retired military service members. The answer is an emphatic ``no.''
While the VFW has a large retiree membership, it is by no means open just to them. In fact, we'd like nothing better than to bring a whole new generation of young, active-duty service members into our ranks.
The VFW is made up of active-duty, reserve and retired members of the armed services just like you, men and women who have served their country on foreign soils, earned expeditionary medals or participated in armed conflicts.
We recognize the sacrifices made by you and your families.
Our organization has four primary objectives: to ensure national security; to speed rehabilitation of the nation's disabled and needy veterans; to assist their widows, orphans and dependents; and to promote Americanism through education in patriotism and constructive service to the community.
Active-duty service members who have earned the right to join the VFW are encouraged to express their belief in these objectives, and to participate in the many programs available to them and their dependents through the organization.
The VFW is proud to have as associates the Ladies Auxiliary, made up of women who have become members by being related to an eligible veteran. The auxiliary offers spouses an opportunity to participate in VFW activities, assisting in patriotic and community service programs.
Women who are serving on active duty in the armed forces may choose to join either the VFW parent group, or the Ladies Auxiliary.
The VFW has one of the most influential lobbying voices on Capitol Hill, working diligently to maintain and improve benefits that service personnel are entitled to receive.
Representatives recently appearing before the Senate and House veterans and defense committees have spoken for liberalization and improvement of the delivery of health care services, support for COLAs, and betterment of veterans' compensation, pension and insurance programs.
A strong and growing membership will ensure these voices continue to be heard, and that the rights of veterans are not lost.
We have a network of national, departmental and post service officers dedicated to providing information concerning veterans' benefits. They can give you or your family member expert advice on how to file claims for these benefits.
Every VFW and auxiliary member can volunteer for community service projects, such as the Voice of Democracy program, which makes scholarships and grants available to high school students who submit their written and taped views on patriotic issues.
``Buddy Poppy'' sales raise funds to benefit veterans hospitals locally and across the country.
VFW members are entitled to benefits including:
Economical group rates for a variety of supplemental health, life and accident insurance plans.
Discount rates for motor vehicle, home and personal property insurance.
Special rates on airfares, Amtrak travel, tour packages, cruises and car rentals.
Twenty to 60 percent off eyeglass prices, and 20 percent off contact lens prices.
No annual fee VISA cards.
Discounted moving services.
Amoco Motor Club membership.
The VFW is an organization that respects and works for the nation's veterans and their communities. For more information, call 479-1180/461-1343, or stop by any local VFW post. MEMO: Doug Gulrud is the senior vice commander of VFW Post 4809 at 5728 Bartee
St. in Norfolk. by CNB