There are two qualifiers for membership in the VFW, as set out in our National Bylaws:

1. Honorable Service – must have served in the Armed Forces of the United States and either received a discharge of Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) or be currently
serving.

2. Service in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or in hostile waters*. This can be proven by any of the following:

- Award of an authorized campaign medal displayed below
- Receipt of Hostile Fire Pay or Imminent Danger Pay (verified by a military pay statement)
- Service in Korea for 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days