The Military Order of the Cootie (M.O.C.) is the Honor Degree of the VFW. The Military Order of the Cootie of the United States is a non-profit Veterans Service Organization. Its members are comprised of the officers and leadership of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Membership in the MOC is recognition of outstanding service to the VFW and its programs.
Founded in New York City on September 17, 1920, the MOC is based on the principals of good humor and fun. Over the past one hundred years, the Cooties have provided social and entertainment programs to members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. The Cooties have worked hard to further the aims of the VFW while adding to it the frivolity known as Military Humor to the serious work of our parent organization.
The VFW National Home, a sprawling campus of homes located in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, started out as the brainchild of the MOC. Cooties firmly believe in caring for the families of our Armed Forces.
With the outbreak of World War II, the Cooties recognized a need to entertain hospitalized troops and veterans during their confinement and rehabilitation at Veterans Administration facilities throughout the country. The Cooties service program is described as a directive to "Keep 'em Smiling in Beds of White." Each year the Cooties volunteer thousands of hours of time throughout the United States, in addition to the hours of service donated as active members of the VFW. The distinctive red hat and unusual uniform sets Cooties apart and draws attention to the plight of those less fortunate than themselves. They sacrifice a little of
themselves to bring a smile or a laugh during what is normally a difficult time for our heroes. The Cooties seek others like them to join and help veterans in their times of stress and anxiety.
