At a recent Veterans of Foreign Wars annual Department (Washington State) School of Instruction, there was a female VFW member who volunteered to be the department’s women veterans chairperson.

She is advocating for all women veterans to become a member of VFW (if qualified as served in a foreign campaign). The VFW is not just for men. Today, women constitute nearly 15 percent of active duty armed forces. There are more than two million women who have served. They comprise approximately 8 percent of all veterans.

Here are some statistics: women who have served in war and combat zones: World War I (13,000); World War II (500,000); Korea (120,000); Vietnam (10,000); Desert Storm (40,000, represents 7 percent of U.S. forces deployed); Somalia (1,000); Haiti (1,200); Bosnia (5,000); Grenada (200); Panama (200); Iraq, Afghanistan and Middle East (660).

The Auburn VFW Post 1741 also advocates for female veterans everywhere. Our post wants to outreach and assist where we can to expand your veteran benefits – because you’ve earned it. We’re here in this community to serve you.

Please see www.vfw1741.com or email vfw1741@gmail.com or call 253-293-5839 if you are interested to learn more about the VFW voice in your community.

– Bill Peloza, commander, VFW Post 1741