Veterans Service Organizations & Patriotic Societies (AVSOPS) Listed by War Period

The American Revolutionary War

The Revolutionary War gave birth to the United States and inspired some of the oldest and most enduring patriotic organizations. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) was founded in 1890 to honor the memory of those who fought for independence, with a mission focused on promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Similarly, the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) preserves the lineage of patriots. These organizations help keep the ideals of liberty and self-governance alive, with direct ties to the founding of the nation.

The American Revolutionary War Timeline: (1775-1783)

American Revolution Battle Map Locations

The War of 1812

Though fewer organizations stemmed directly from the War of 1812, it reinforced the growing tradition of military pride and national identity. Groups like the United States Daughters of 1812, founded in 1892, aim to commemorate those who defended the fledgling nation a second time. The period also influenced the establishment of early national symbols, like the national anthem, further binding patriotic societies to the roots of American pride.

The War of 1812 Timeline: (1812-1815)

The War of 1812 Battle Map Locations

The Mexican War

The Mexican War expanded the nation and, though lesser known, laid the groundwork for future military service organizations. Veterans of this conflict paved the way for larger movements of veteran solidarity, which became increasingly significant as the Civil War loomed. The spirit of comradeship among veterans would later be institutionalized in organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), which honors all those who served in foreign conflicts, fostering a strong sense of shared sacrifice.

The Mexican War Timeline: (1846-1848)

Mexican American War Battle Map Locations

The American Civil War

The Civil War fundamentally changed the nation, and it led to the formation of many organizations that still exist today to honor the service of veterans. The Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), established in 1866, was one of the first veterans’ organizations, offering camaraderie and support for Union veterans. Later, the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC) and similar groups were created to preserve the memory of Confederate veterans. Though these organizations addressed the pain of a divided nation, they laid the groundwork for unity among veterans that transcended future conflicts.

The post-Civil War period also saw the rise of organizations such as the American Red Cross, founded in 1881, which became a critical player in wartime and disaster relief efforts, supporting soldiers and civilians alike.

The American Civil War Timeline: (1861-1865)

American Civil War Battle Map Locations

The Spanish-American War

This brief but significant conflict established the U.S. as a global power and led to the creation of modern veterans’ organizations. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) traces its roots back to Spanish-American War veterans who sought support and solidarity after serving overseas. Their efforts helped cement the idea that service members who fought in foreign lands deserved recognition and assistance. The war also led to the establishment of groups like the United Spanish War Veterans, which eventually merged with others to expand their focus on veteran welfare.

The Spanish-American War Timeline: (1898)

Spanish American War Battle Map Locations

World War I

World War I marked a dramatic increase in U.S. involvement in global affairs and veterans’ needs. The American Legion, founded in 1919, remains one of the largest and most influential veterans’ service organizations in the U.S. to this day, advocating for veteran benefits, patriotism, and community service. The war also spurred the growth of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), which assists veterans who sustained lifelong injuries. These organizations reflect the nation’s enduring commitment to caring for those who served.

The Red Cross became a central figure in humanitarian efforts, helping both soldiers and civilians during and after the war.

The World War I Timeline: (1917-1918)

World War I Battle Map Locations

World War II

World War II had a profound impact on American society and veterans’ organizations. The expansion of the American Legion, VFW, and DAV continued as millions of new veterans returned home, seeking a sense of community and support. These organizations became integral in advocating for the G.I. Bill, which provided education and housing benefits for veterans, fundamentally reshaping American society. Gold Star Families, organizations honoring families who lost loved ones in military service, also gained prominence during this period.

The American Red Cross played a pivotal role once again, providing medical assistance, supplies, and morale support during the war.

The World War II Timeline: (1941-1945)

World War II Battle Map Locations

The Korean Conflict

Although sometimes called the “Forgotten War,” the Korean War emphasized the growing importance of veterans’ organizations as advocates for the recognition and welfare of those who served. The American Legion and VFW continued to play key roles in helping veterans reintegrate into civilian life, and organizations like the Korean War Veterans Association (founded later in 1985) arose to ensure that the contributions of Korean War veterans were not overlooked.

The Korean Conflict Timeline: (1950-1953)

Korean Conflict Locations

The Vietnam War

The Vietnam War created deep societal divisions, but it also strengthened veterans’ groups. The Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) was established in 1978 to address the specific needs of Vietnam veterans, many of whom faced public disapproval or indifference upon returning home. The war’s legacy of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other health issues also pushed organizations like the DAV and VFW to expand their services to include mental health and disability benefits.

The war gave rise to the POW/MIA Movement, advocating for the return and identification of prisoners of war and those missing in action, with the iconic POW/MIA flag symbolizing the unresolved loss.

The Vietnam War Timeline: (1955-1975)

Vietnam War Battle Map Locations

The Persian Gulf War (Desert Shield/Storm)

The Gulf War was relatively short but gave rise to a new generation of veterans. The American Legion and VFW expanded their membership to include Gulf War veterans, ensuring that their service would not go unrecognized. Organizations like the National Gulf War Resource Center emerged to address the health concerns related to Gulf War Syndrome, focusing on the unique needs of this group of veterans.

The Persian Gulf War (Desert Shield/Storm) Timeline: (1990-1991)

Desert Shield/Storm Battle Map Locations

The Global War on Terror

The ongoing Global War on Terror, initiated in response to the September 11 attacks, has expanded the role of veterans’ organizations to include more recent generations of service members. Groups like the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) were founded to address the needs of those who served in the post-9/11 conflicts. Traditional organizations like the VFW, American Legion, and DAV continue to advocate for healthcare, benefits, and recognition for veterans of the Global War on Terror, emphasizing mental health awareness and support for those affected by the invisible wounds of war.

The Global War on Terror Timeline: (2001-present)

The Global War on Terror Battle Map Locations