VFW patches hold special significance

Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars say their group has been around since at least 1899, when Spanish-American war veterans banded together to unify access to rights and benefits.

But the inspiration for the designs of the unique vest patches worn by group members date back much farther than that, said VFW post 7392 motorcycle group rider and member Al Comeau.

“The central feature for each patch – whether for post members, ladies or men’s auxiliary, or junior girls – is the Great Seal of the United States of America,” said Comeau. “That feature appears on a field formed by a Maltese Cross design, which itself may be the most memorable detail of all.

“The Cross of Malta, as it is called, is an emblem based on an eight-pointed cross that is similar to one used during the First Crusade, many hundreds of years ago,” he continued.

Each sub-group’s identifying name, such as the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, appears in a circular ring around the United States’ seal emblem. Some local VFW organizations even liken the golden rays emanating from the main logo design to those radiated by the sun.

According to Comeau, veterans with qualifying service can apply for membership as post members, while those with qualifying relatives may join the VFW ladies auxiliary or men’s auxiliary.

“Post members can also wear a patch that signifies their branch of service,” said Comeau.

Local post 7392 enjoys active participation by its post members and ladies auxiliary alike, said VFW motorcycle rider Tom Catoire.

“I’m a member of the Sequim VFW men’s auxiliary,”  said Catoire, “and also a VFW motorcycle rider here.”

Catoire said that the unique projects undertaken by one group are supported across the board by other members.

“For example, when the ladies auxiliary plans a fundraiser, such as their annual auction, we support them in any way we can. They supply youth scholarships, and are funding the fallen soldier banner project by selling T-shirts and other items,” he said. “These are good causes in which we can all make a joint effort.”

As VFW motorcycle riders and Patriot Guard Riders, Catoire, Comeau, and other local VFW post members recently began funding a college scholarship from their own group’s efforts.

“No matter how a person achieves membership, what’s important is that love for country and fellow veterans is what unites us,” said Comeau. “And that’s what the patches represent.”