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History of the VFW

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is a nonprofit veterans service organization comprised of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, guard and reserve forces.

We trace our 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. The first chapters were formed in Ohio, Colorado and Pennsylvania, the movement quickly gained momentum. Today, membership stands at nearly 1.7 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary.

Our voice was instrumental in establishing the Veterans Administration, development of the national cemetery system, in the fight for compensation for Vietnam vets exposed to Agent Orange and for veterans diagnosed with Gulf War Syndrome. We advocated for the 2008 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. We were the driving force behind the Veterans Access and Accountability Act of 2014 (POW/MIA), and continually fight for improved VA medical center services for women veterans.

We lead the funding for the creation of the Vietnam, Korean War, World War II and Women in Military Service memorials, in 2005 the VFW became the first veterans' organization to contribute to building the Disabled Veterans for Life Memorial, which opened in November 2010. And in 2015, we became the first supporter of the National Desert Storm War Memorial, which is planned for construction at our nation's capital.

We have many programs and services that work to support veterans, service members and their families, as well as communities worldwide. Please check out our latest fact sheet or spend some time browsing our site to learn why No One Does More For Veterans.

Honor  And Remember

VFW Post 9010 has a 50+ year history.  Our post, Brewer-Lowder-McCuiston VFW POST 9010 is named for three area men who made the ultimate sacrifice.  James Brewer - WWII, Edward Lowder - Vietnam, and Richard McCuiston - Vietnam.  May they Rest In Eternal Peace.

 

 

Lieutenant James Estes Brewer

Lieutenant Brewer was born on February 10, 1920.  He entered the Air Force in 1942.  He was killed in action on November 21, 1944 while flying a mission over occupied China.  He was awarded the Purple Heart and is buried in Centenary United Methodist Church Cemetery. 

 

More detailed information about Lieutenant Brewer may be found:

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First Sergeant Clarence Edward Lowder

First Sergeant Lowder was born on July 28, 1924 in Clemmons NC.  He joined the Army in 1947.  He was a Field Artillery First Sergeant for the 25th Infantry Division.  He ultimately served his Country in the Army for a total of 22 years.  His Vietnam tour started on June 12, 1969 and ended on September 8, 1969 when he died from small arms fire.  He was 45 year old.

 

More detailed information about 1-SGT Lowder may be found:

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Private First Class Harvey Richard McCuiston

Private First Class McCuiston was born on February 16, 1950 in Advance, NC.  He joined the Army as an 11B10: Infantryman.  He was assigned to Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry, 196th Infantry Brigade.  He served in Vietnam from June 16, 1969 until his death on August 19, 1969.

He was awarded the following medals for his heroic actions:

  • The Combat Infantryman's Badge (CIB)
  • The Purple Heart Medal
  • The Vietnam Service Medal
  • The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Service Medal
  • The National Defense Service Medal

 

More detailed information about PFC McCuiston may be found:

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