06/02/2026
VFW Honors LGBTQ+ Veterans’ Service to Nation
The VFW takes the opportunity to recognize LGBTQ+ veterans for their service to the nation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (June 1, 2026) — June is Pride Month, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) stands with our fellow Americans in honoring the invaluable contributions and sacrifices of all who have served our nation, including le***an, gay, bisexual, transgender and q***r (LGBTQ+)
Since the first Pride Month proclamation in 1999 by President Bill Clinton, the VFW has honored theestimated more than 1 million veterans that identify as LGBTQ+ for their service, and forproudly standing among the less than 1% of us who serve or have served our great nation.
The bond of military service unites all who wore the uniform, transcending beyond our differences and beliefs to protect American liberty. The VFW’s mission remains steadfast: to foster camaraderie among veterans, to advocate for their earned benefits, and to perpetuate the memory and history of our fallen brothers- and sisters-in-arms. We are dedicated to ensuring that every veteran feels valued and has access to the resources and community they deserve.
This June, the more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary salute all LGBTQ+ veterans for their honorable service and recognize that their dedication and courage are part of the foundation of our national defense.
