The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) was established in 1899 by veterans of the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection who returned home to find no medical care or veterans’ benefits. They formed local organizations to secure rights and support for their service, leading to the creation of what would become the VFW.
Over the years, the VFW has played a crucial role in advocating for veterans’ rights, including the establishment of the Veterans Administration, the creation of the original GI Bill in 1944, and the development of the national cemetery system. The organization has also fought for justice and compensation for Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange, as well as for those affected by Gulf War Syndrome. In 2008, the VFW helped champion and pass the Post-9/11 GI Bill, significantly expanding educational benefits for a new generation of service members.
Beyond advocacy, the VFW has helped fund and build several national memorials, including those for the Vietnam War, Korean War, World War II, and Women in Military Service. In 2005, it became the first veterans’ organization to contribute to the Disabled Veterans for Life Memorial, which officially opened in 2010.
The earliest known photograph of the VFW as a national organization dates back to the early 1900s, showing charter members gathered at one of the first encampments in Pennsylvania. A notable preserved image, part of the Digital Commonwealth archive, features VFW members in formal attire at a veterans’ gathering—highlighting the organization’s early structure, uniforms, and public presence. (Photo credit: Digital Commonwealth Archives – Massachusetts Historical Veterans Collection)
Today, the VFW and its Auxiliary have nearly 1.9 million members who collectively contribute over 8.6 million hours of volunteer service annually. They provide more than $3 million in scholarships and savings bonds to students each year, while continuing their unwavering mission to serve veterans, military families, and communities nationwide.
VFW POST 10018 – NARROWS BRIDGE (TACOMA, WA)
VFW Post 10018, known as the Narrows Bridge Post, is located at 4741 N. Baltimore St., Tacoma, WA 98407. This Post has been a cornerstone of the local veteran community, offering support, resources, and a gathering place for veterans. Established under the leadership of its first Post Commander, Earl Fromdahl, Post 10018 has continued to honor its founding legacy by hosting various events throughout the year, including community service projects, holiday celebrations, and youth scholarship programs like the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen.
VFW IN WASHINGTON STATE
Washington State has a rich history with the VFW, with numerous Posts established across the state to support veterans and their families. These Posts have been active in community service, advocacy, and providing a space for camaraderie among veterans. The Department of Washington continues to uphold the mission of the VFW, ensuring that veterans in the state receive the support and recognition they deserve. One notable moment in this history is captured in the earliest known photograph of a VFW event in Washington, taken on June 22, 1962, by Bill Lilley. The image features a VFW parade held during the 42nd annual Department of Washington convention at the Walla Walla Armory, with members proudly marching with American flags through downtown Walla Walla—a testament to the longstanding presence and pride of the VFW in the state.
