[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 119 (Monday, July 16, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1015]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF THE 119TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE 
             VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 16, 2018

  Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to recognize the 119th 
anniversary of the creation of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States (VFW) and celebrate their fervent service to veterans, 
service members, and their families. This year's annual VFW convention 
will be held in Kansas City, Missouri, and it is truly an honor for our 
city to host such a noble event.
  The VFW was established in 1899 in the wake of the Spanish-American 
War and the Philippine Insurrection. Many soldiers returned home sick 
or wounded with no means of medical care, so organizations formed to 
aid these recently established veterans. Through the resilient spirit 
that they have come to be known for, veterans came together in unity to 
establish the monumental institution known today as the VFW.
  Over one hundred years later, the VFW is now comprised of over 1.7 
million members spread across nearly 6,374 posts worldwide. Today, the 
VFW continues to change the lives of veterans, military service 
members, and their families through their altruistic commitment to 
service and advocacy. Moreover, through their advocacy efforts, the VFW 
has been instrumental in moving veteran's rights and issues to the 
forefront of American policy.
  The VFW has stated its mission is to foster camaraderie among United 
States veterans of overseas conflicts, to serve our veterans, the 
military and our communities, and to advocate on behalf of all 
veterans. In this regard, the VFW has continuously kept its promise, 
ensuring that the service the organization provides is a direct 
reflection of its core values. Just as veterans and service members 
commit to putting the people of this country first, the VFW serves 
veterans, service members, and their families in the same manner.
  This noble organization commemorates the meritorious women, men, and 
families who have made monumental sacrifices and stood tall and valiant 
in the face of adversity. It is truly an honor and a privilege to stand 
today and recognize their outstanding work.
  Mr. Speaker, while a simple ``thank you'' could never properly 
describe our appreciation for these American heroes, please join me in 
honoring and showing our gratitude, not only for the VFW, but for those 
it serves.

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