Preserving a Legacy of Service Abroad: The Military Order of Foreign Wars of the United States

Among America’s most storied and prestigious hereditary military societies is the Military Order of Foreign Wars of the United States (MOFW). Established to honor those who served in foreign conflicts, MOFW preserves the legacy of military service rendered beyond American shores from the nation’s earliest days. Rich in tradition and guided by a mission of remembrance and patriotism, the MOFW connects generations of officers, veterans, and their descendants who have answered the call of duty overseas.

Formation of the Military Order of Foreign Wars

The Military Order of Foreign Wars of the United States was founded on December 13, 1894, in New York City, by a group of descendants of veterans of the American Revolutionary War, particularly those whose ancestors had fought in foreign theaters of war or in alliances with foreign forces.

The Order’s creation was inspired by the model of other patriotic and hereditary organizations of the time, such as the Society of the Cincinnati (1783) and the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States (1865). MOFW was unique in its focus on overseas service, reflecting a broader view of American military involvement across the globe.

Its founding occurred during a period of growing interest in military history and patriotic societies, driven by a renewed appreciation for American heritage during the late 19th century.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the MOFW is centered on patriotism, remembrance, and service. Its stated purposes include:

Honoring the memory of American military officers who served in foreign wars or military expeditions.
Encouraging historical research into foreign military service rendered by U.S. forces or colonial militias.
Fostering camaraderie and patriotism among members.
Educating the public on the significance of American overseas engagements throughout history.

The organization also supports scholarships, commemorative events, military ceremonies, and partnerships with other patriotic societies.

Membership and Eligibility

The Military Order of Foreign Wars offers several classes of membership:

1. Hereditary Members

These are individuals who can prove lineal descent from an officer who served honorably in a foreign war or expedition, including:

The Revolutionary War (particularly French or other foreign campaigns),
The War of 1812,
The Mexican-American War,
Spanish-American War,
Philippine Insurrection,
World Wars I and II,
Later 20th- and 21st-century conflicts abroad.

The key qualification is that the ancestor must have served in a military capacity on foreign soil or seas under U.S. or allied command.

2. Veteran Companions

Veterans who served honorably as commissioned officers in a qualifying foreign conflict may be admitted in their own right.

3. Honorary and Associate Memberships

Granted to individuals who have shown exceptional support for the mission or have particular historical or military significance.

Applicants must provide verifiable documentation including service records, discharge papers, pension files, and genealogical proof when applicable.

Key Historical Milestones

1894: MOFW is founded in New York.
1898: The Spanish-American War brings a new generation of members who served in Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.
Post-WWI and WWII: The Order expands significantly, reflecting America’s growing involvement in global conflicts.
Late 20th Century: Membership eligibility broadens to include conflicts such as Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, and peacekeeping missions.
Present Day: MOFW continues as an active lineage society with chapters (“Commanderies”) across the U.S., sponsoring commemorative events, lectures, and historical research.

Contributions to Historical Preservation

The MOFW is not only a social and commemorative group—it also contributes to public education and historical preservation. Its members:

Publish works on military and foreign war history,
Support ROTC and JROTC scholarships,
Sponsor memorials and historical plaques at battlefields and military cemeteries,
Participate in national patriotic events, such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies.

The Order also maintains an archive of historical documents and memorabilia tied to foreign military service.

Organizational Structure

MOFW is organized into state and regional Commanderies, each governed by its own officers but united under the General Commandery, which oversees national coordination. The General Commandery holds biennial meetings, and local groups meet regularly for commemorative events, ceremonies, and historical discussions.

Conclusion

The Military Order of Foreign Wars of the United States stands as a powerful tribute to those who served America far from home. Whether on the battlefields of the Revolutionary War in Europe or in modern-day peacekeeping missions, MOFW preserves the history and values of service, sacrifice, and patriotism. For descendants and veterans alike, it offers a meaningful connection to both heritage and country—a bridge between generations built on honor and remembrance.