I have been to the American Legion and worked on a couple of VFW Posts.They can be of help or you can choose to sit around and drink with Veterans.American Legion tried to help me get my disability when I got out.___Denny

I've been a member of VFW almost 30 years,,They do a lot different suff,,Collect coats and clothes for needy,,Most of suff they do around here is for Kids,,We put out flags for Vet's Memorial day,,But usually we just sit arond drink and Bitch about the good old days,,Kind of like here without the booze

When I first left the military in the 70's, and up until recently, females were not allowed into the VFW as official members. They were encouraged to join the Auxiliaries and participate in the capacities deemed by a committee of men to be appropriate (OOPS, sorry, the Libber in me is showing---no offense, gentlemen).

As I was brusquely and condescendingly brushed off for many years, I have not made an attempt to involve myself for decades. If it truly has changed, and women are being accepted as full members and partners in military service, maybe I will try again now---there is a Post only a few miles from my town.

As for the DAV, they are the only charitable organization in TX (other than churches) that I donate to, as they serve the public without asking for a return for their generosity.

These organizations are good when they are acting as powers of attorney in dealings with the VA. And then some are better than others. Other than that I'm not sure. I'm not much on wearing uniforms (LOL) and I don't need a bar to hang at.

They probably do much more than I am aware of.

I have a feeling their GREATEST value to veterans is more their political actions (lobbyists) than anything on an individual basis. Yes, they will help you with your claims. Beyond that, I don't see much else they do for the veteran. They seem to do more for the community than the veterans.

I belong to a veterans organization and I have to say, at first I was not so thrilled as all local organizations community involvement was confined to the meeting hall.

So, based on your observations... do you think that they are a dinosaur of the past or can they provide service to those separating now and in the future (other than the bar!!!)?

american Legion has been helping me thru all kinds of things.

I know several people that AMERICAN LEGION has helped.I am glad that they are doing you some good bluesun.

What is not happening that I think SHOULD happen is guys just discharged should somehow be encouraged to join one of the organizations. For some reason, when I got out in 1968 it never occurred to me and hasn't since.

If veterans want representation and power, we need to organize .. and that is what these are, organizations.

The organizations need to intensely recruit young veterans and they do not seem to do that at all.

I have to tell you all. A vet who was a member our local chapter died and was buried without ceremony. Members got wind of this and thought it was a shame he died alone without honors and held a graveside service for him with honors. It was a moment that made me proud and made me realize that I will never walk alone or die alone.

However, I am more concerned with what Wandering vet said. Why aren't vets told when they get out and what is it these organizations can do to make it look like an attractive option. Yes, I understand the lobbying piece (and its a darn fine one, Wandering Vet!!) but I was looking at more localized and personalized options.

Just like CO's some work some don't just depends on which one you get. I work with Vets and active Duty to achieve unique goals and you just have to hunt and peck for the right one. Some support and some don't. Veteran Charities which are not part of the "Big 12" are dedicated to the help of Veterans and can help find the Service org. which works for your need I always check with them first. Texas hold em and alcohol have their place you just need to find what you need.