American Veterans

American Veterans (AMVETS), association of veterans of war founded in 1944 and chartered by United States president Harry S. Truman (1945-1953) in 1947, which works to promote world peace, preserve the American way of life, and help veterans help themselves. Membership in AMVETS is open to anyone who is currently serving or has served actively and honorably in the Armed Forces of the United States at any time after September 15, 1940, including wartime merchant marines (with DD-214s) and members of the Coast Guard and the National Guard and Reserves.

AMVETS has service posts throughout the United States, and its National Service Officers (NSOs) provide free advice and claims assistance to AMVETS members and their dependents. NSOs are accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and handle thousands of claims annually. AMVETS members can also participate in a wide range of other programs, including scholarships, substance abuse recovery, blood and organ donor programs, and the Special Olympics.

Reviewed by: American Veterans