According to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Americanism is defined as an unfailing love of country, loyalty to its institutions and ideal of freedom, eagerness to defend it against all enemies, undivided allegiance to the flag, and a desire to secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and posterity.  Rooted in the patriotic commitment of combat veterans, the VFW views Americanism not as mere rhetoric or passive sentiment, but as an active, daily responsibility.  It encompasses upholding the principles of the U.S. Constitution, honoring the sacrifices of those who defended the nation, and actively cultivating civic pride and respect for national symbols, most notably through proper care, display, and reverence for the American flag.

To put Americanism into action, the VFW carries out extensive community programs designed to foster civic education and patriotic duty across generations. Through initiatives like the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen audio-essay competitions, local posts award scholarships while encouraging middle and high school students to reflect on American history, democratic values, and freedom.  VFW posts also lead local flag etiquette instruction, organize flag retirement ceremonies, recognize patriotic teachers and community leaders, and lead public commemorations for national observances such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Flag Day.  Through these efforts, the VFW ensures that the core values of citizenship, service, and devotion to the nation remain vital threads in American civic life.