History of AmVets
AMVETS was originally formed in 1943 by soldiers returning from World War II. At that time it was a loosely connected coalition of veterans clubs. The National organization was formed in Kansas City, MO in December of 1944, and its name was chosen as the American Veterans of World War II. Its three key goals were (1) to promote world peace, (2) to preserve the American way of life and (3) to help the veteran help himself. Newspaper headlines quickly shortened its name to AMVETS. On 23 July 1947, President Harry S. Truman signed the charter establishing AMVETS as a Federally recognized Veterans Service Organization [VSO].
Over the years, the original name had to be expanded to the American Veterans of World War II, Korea and Viet Nam. Now, it is simply officially recognized as AMVETS. Membership in the organization is open to any active duty service member and to any honorably discharged service member after 15 September 1940, including National Guard and Reserve members and members of the Merchant Marines considered veterans and eligible for Veterans Administration [VA] benefits holding a DD-214 from either the Navy or the Coast Guard. including National Guard and Reserve members and members of the Merchant Marines considered veterans and eligible for Veterans Administration [VA] benefits holding a DD-214 from either the Navy or the Coast Guard.