Join VFW Post 8343
Serving veterans and their families in Wind Lake and the surrounding community since our founding. Your membership strengthens our mission.
Apply for Membership100+
Active Members
50+
Years Serving
$300K
Building Fund Goal
100%
Veteran-Led
Who Can Join?
VFW membership is open to veterans and service members who have served honorably in a foreign war, campaign, or expedition.
Regular Member
Open to any active duty, National Guard, or Reserve member who has received a campaign medal or served overseas in a hostile fire or imminent danger pay area. Also open to honorably discharged veterans who meet the same criteria.
- Honorable service in the U.S. Armed Forces
- Received a campaign medal OR served in a foreign war, expedition, or hostile fire/imminent danger pay area
- Proof of service (DD-214 or equivalent)
Life Member
Regular members may upgrade to Life Membership with a one-time payment. Life members enjoy all Regular Member benefits with no annual renewal.
- Must qualify as a Regular Member
- One-time dues payment based on age bracket
- No annual renewal required
Associate Member
Open to U.S. citizens who support the VFW mission but do not meet Regular Member eligibility. Associate members support the post's programs and community work.
- U.S. citizen in good standing
- Support for the VFW mission
- Annual dues payment
VFW Auxiliary
The VFW Auxiliary is open to spouses, widows/widowers, parents, grandparents, siblings, and direct descendants of eligible VFW members. The Auxiliary runs its own programs and fundraisers.
- Family relationship to an eligible VFW member
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Annual dues payment
Membership Benefits
Your VFW membership connects you to a nationwide network of veterans and unlocks real, tangible support.
Veterans Benefits Assistance
Our trained service officers help you navigate VA claims, disability ratings, and benefits you've earned — at no cost to you.
Community & Camaraderie
Weekly fish fries, holiday ceremonies, and social events keep you connected to fellow veterans and the Wind Lake community.
Legislative Advocacy
The VFW lobbies Congress on veterans' issues — healthcare, education, housing, and more. Your membership amplifies that voice.
Scholarship Programs
Access to VFW national scholarship programs for members and their dependents, including the Voice of Democracy and Patriots' Pen competitions.
Insurance & Financial Programs
Members have access to VFW-endorsed life insurance, auto, home, and other financial products at competitive rates.
Post Facilities & Events
Use of Post 8343's facilities for private events, access to member-only fundraisers, and priority seating at post events.
Annual Dues
Dues support post operations, community programs, and national VFW advocacy. Contact us for current Life Membership rates by age bracket.
Dues are subject to change. Contact the post for the most current rates.
How to Join
Joining Post 8343 takes just a few steps. We're here to help you through the process.
Verify Eligibility
Review the eligibility requirements above. Gather your DD-214 or other proof of qualifying service. Not sure if you qualify? Contact us — we'll help you find out.
Contact the Post
Email or call us to express your interest. A post officer will reach out to walk you through the application and answer any questions.
Complete Your Application
Fill out the VFW membership application form. You can apply online through VFW National or in person at the post. We'll guide you either way.
Pay Dues & Get Your Card
Submit your annual dues and receive your official VFW membership card. Welcome to Post 8343.
Ready to Join?
Email us to start your application or stop by the post during open hours. We'd love to have you.