Military Order of the World Wars

Patriotic American organization of former military officers.

On January 27, 1919 a society was formed for the perpetuation of the fellowship born of their military service and for the protection of the Country. It was called "The American Officers of the Great War". At the time the "Great War" was the greatest conflict in which the United States had engaged.

At its first National Convention in September 1920 in Detroit, Michigan, the name of the society was changed to "The Military Order of the World War" and the charter was amended to "to promote and further patriotic education in our Nation."

In the years following the first World War, the Order became an insistent advocate of national security and the champion of proper provisions for all components of the Armed Forces. By its forceful action on behalf of the country, and by the constructive influence exerted upon public opinion by virtue of the military experience of its companions and their position of leadership in their communities, it has attracted to its membership some of our greatest leaders, including Presidents. The National Convention in 1942 made the commissioned officers of World War II eligible for membership inasmuch as these officers were continuing the ideals of the Order. An "s" was added to the "World War" in its name. For the same reason, the eligibility to membership was extended to the officers of the Korean and Vietnam conflicts and to include officers on active duty in any period related to the Cold War.

Historical Note

Patriotic American organization of former military officers.