The VFW traces its roots back to 1899 when veterans of the Spanish-American War (1898) and the Philippine Insurrection (1899-1902) founded local organizations to secure rights and benefits for their service: Many arrived home wounded or sick. There was no medical care or veterans' pension for them,and they were left to care for themselves.

 

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In their misery, some of these veterans banded together and formed organizations with what would become known as the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. After chapters were formed in Ohio, Colorado and Pennsylvania, the movement quickly gained momentum. By 1915, membership grew to 5,000; by 1936, membership was almost 200,000. 

Since then, the VFW's voice had been instrumental in establishing the Veterans Administration, creating a GI bill for the 20th century, the development of the national cemetery system and the fight for compensation for Vietnam vets exposed to Agent Orange and for veterans diagnosed with Gulf War Syndrome. In 2008, VFW won a long-fought victory with the passing of a GI Bill for the 21st Century, giving expanded educational benefits to America's active-duty service members, and members of the Guard and Reserves, fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. 

The VFW also has fought for improving VA medical centers services for women veterans.

Besides helping fund the creation of the Vietnam, Korean War, World War II and Women in Military Service memorials, the VFW in 2005 became the first veterans' organization to contribute to building the new Disabled Veterans for Life Memorial, which opened in November 2010.

Annually, the nearly 2 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliaries contribute more than 8.6 million hours of volunteerism in the community, including participation in Make A Difference Day and National Volunteer Week. 

From providing over $3 million in college scholarships and savings bonds to students every year, to encouraging elevation of the Department of Veterans Affairs to the president's cabinet, the VFW is there.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Memo from the Commander:

 

As Commander of Don Diego VFW Post 7420, it’s my honor to serve alongside dedicated veterans, families, and community members who believe in service, sacrifice, and support for one another. Whether you served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, or anywhere in between, your service matters, and Don Diego is your home.

Here at Don Diego, we are more than a meeting place. We’re a hub of community outreach, a support system for veterans in need, and a safe space for camaraderie, remembrance, and growth. From flag retirements and food distributions to youth scholarship programs and honoring the fallen, we take pride in staying active and relevant.

But we can’t do it alone.

Whether you’re a veteran, an Auxiliary member, a supporter, or someone simply looking to give back, there’s a place for you here. We welcome your ideas, your time, and your passion. Together, we’ll ensure Don Diego continues to be a place where service never ends.

Thank you for stopping by. Stay connected, stay involved, and stay proud.

Yours in service and solidarity,

Angel Garcia 

Commander, Don Diego VFW Post 7420

San Diego, CA