WWII Veterans were very supportive of the VFW and similiar organizations. The Vietnam Veterans I know did not join when they came back because even many WWII Veterans bought the lies of the left and the media and did not make them feel welcome. A few years ago when it was obvious the veterans organizations were falling apart as many of their members passed away they put a big push to recruit the Vietnam Veterans- too little, too late. This happened in my area, I don’t know about other areas. Hubby is a member of the local VFW and has never been active, he gets pleading letters from them all the time about how they need more active members- he is just not willing to participate now. I think it is a shame- but I don’t know the solution.
I think it would be great if the Vietnam Veterans would support the organizations and welcome the new veterans in, but don’t really see it happening.
I think in many cases it has less to do with the lies of the left than the discomfort of veterans of a segregated military with the veterans of an integrated military. Imagine the scene if a white veteran brings his dark skinned best friend from service into a VFW in AL or MS in 1970 for a few drinks.
VFW needs to go after the vets of Iraq and Afghanistan, etc.
These are the ones who will want the camaraderie of those who have gone through similar experience.
The key to getting these new vets involved is to promote them quickly to positions of responsibility and let them set the agendas.
Old vets will have to swallow their pride and let the new generation take over or their organization will die from lack of new blood.