The Military Order of the Cootie, often known simply as “the Cooties,” is one of the most unique and respected organizations within the American veteran community. As the honor degree of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), it carries a rich history of service, humor, and dedication to helping others. While its name may sound whimsical, its mission is deeply meaningful — to bring comfort, laughter, and support to hospitalized veterans and to strengthen the bonds of comradeship among those who served.
This article explores the history, traditions, and ongoing impact of the Military Order of the Cootie, tracing its roots from its early formation to its lasting legacy today.
Origins of the Military Order of the Cootie
The Military Order of the Cootie was founded in 1920, just after World War I, when a group of Veterans of Foreign Wars members in Washington, D.C., sought to create a way to maintain morale, friendship, and humor among veterans. Inspired by the lighthearted camaraderie shared by soldiers during wartime, they created an organization that used humor and fun as tools to promote unity and service.
The founding members chose the name “Cootie” because of the small lice-like insects that soldiers jokingly complained about in the trenches. They saw this as a reminder of the shared hardships and humor of military life. From those humble beginnings, the organization grew quickly, developing rituals, ranks, and traditions that mirrored the structure of the military but added a spirit of playfulness and brotherhood.
Connection with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
The Military Order of the Cootie is not an independent organization but an official “honor degree” within the Veterans of Foreign Wars. This means that only members of the VFW in good standing can join the Cooties. The organization was designed to recognize members who showed exceptional dedication to service, loyalty, and support of their fellow veterans.
The relationship between the VFW and the Cooties is one of mutual respect. While the VFW focuses on legislative advocacy, community outreach, and veteran assistance programs, the Cooties complement these efforts through direct service, volunteerism, and morale-boosting activities. Together, they represent two sides of the same coin — one focused on policy and advocacy, the other on personal service and joy.
The Symbolism Behind the Name and Traditions
At first glance, the name “Cootie” may seem odd or even humorous, but it carries deep symbolic meaning. During the First World War, “cooties” were lice that infested soldiers in the trenches. These tiny pests became a universal experience for troops, creating a strange sense of unity among them. Soldiers turned this annoyance into a shared joke, and in doing so, it became a symbol of resilience and fellowship.
The Military Order of the Cootie adopted this term to represent the same spirit — finding humor in hardship and maintaining morale no matter the circumstances. Many of the group’s ceremonies, titles, and traditions reflect this balance of levity and loyalty. Members often call each other “Cooties,” and local groups are known as “Pup Tents,” emphasizing the organization’s roots in field camaraderie.
Structure and Organization
The Military Order of the Cootie is organized similarly to military units. Local groups are called “Pup Tents,” which are part of larger districts and national divisions. The national leadership is referred to as the “Supreme Pup Tent,” and its head is known as the “Supreme Commander.”
Despite its humorous titles, the organization operates with serious purpose. Members plan service projects, hospital visits, fundraising efforts, and community events. Every member takes an oath to uphold the principles of loyalty, cheerfulness, and service — the core values of the order.
The Motto: “Keep ‘em Smiling in Beds of White”
Perhaps the most famous motto of the Military Order of the Cootie is “Keep ‘em Smiling in Beds of White.” This simple phrase captures the heart of the organization’s mission — to bring joy and comfort to veterans in hospitals and care facilities. Cooties visit VA hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical centers to spend time with veterans, share laughter, and remind them they are not forgotten.
These visits are not just symbolic; they have a profound emotional impact on both patients and volunteers. The organization’s members often bring gifts, organize small celebrations, and provide companionship to those who might otherwise feel isolated. This human connection reflects the essence of the Cootie spirit — service through kindness and humor.
Charitable Work and Community Involvement
Beyond hospital visits, the Military Order of the Cootie is active in charitable causes that support veterans, military families, and local communities. They fund scholarships, support children’s hospitals, and participate in civic events across the country. Many Pup Tents raise funds for VA hospitals, disaster relief, and programs that help homeless veterans.
The Cooties also play an important role in maintaining the visibility of veterans’ issues at the local level. By combining humor and service, they attract attention and engagement from community members who might not otherwise connect with traditional veteran organizations.
Membership and Initiation
Membership in the Military Order of the Cootie is selective. Only VFW members in good standing who have demonstrated active participation and commitment can be invited to join. This exclusivity gives the organization a special prestige within the VFW community.
Initiation into the order is conducted with ceremony and humor. The rituals are designed to emphasize camaraderie, humility, and laughter — qualities that are essential for anyone who wishes to “Keep ‘em Smiling.” While the details of initiation are known only to members, they are intended to strengthen the bonds of fellowship and remind initiates of the organization’s core values.
The Role of Humor and Fellowship
One of the defining features of the Military Order of the Cootie is its emphasis on humor. The founders believed that laughter is one of the most powerful forms of healing and connection. By encouraging a lighthearted spirit, they created a culture where veterans could relax, share stories, and find comfort in shared experiences.
Humor also serves as a reminder that service does not always have to be solemn. The Cooties use fun and good-natured teasing to create joy and camaraderie, both among members and in the communities they serve. This unique approach makes the organization stand out among veterans’ groups.
Legacy and Impact Over the Years
For more than a century, the Military Order of the Cootie has continued to serve veterans and their families with dedication and humor. Its members have volunteered countless hours in VA hospitals, raised millions for charity, and supported the mission of the VFW through selfless service.
The organization’s legacy lies not only in what it does but also in how it does it — with laughter, compassion, and unwavering loyalty. Generations of Cooties have carried forward the traditions started in 1920, adapting to modern times while preserving the spirit of fellowship that defines their order.
The Military Order of the Cootie in the Modern Era
Today, the Military Order of the Cootie continues to thrive with members across the United States and abroad. In an age where many veterans face challenges of isolation, mental health issues, and reintegration into civilian life, the Cooties’ work remains as important as ever.
Through hospital visits, online community engagement, and public service events, the organization reminds the world that humor and kindness are powerful tools for healing. The Military Order of the Cootie stands as a living example of how laughter, loyalty, and service can make a lasting difference.
Conclusion
The Military Order of the Cootie may have begun as a humorous offshoot of the VFW, but it has grown into one of the most compassionate and dedicated service organizations for veterans. Its lighthearted traditions hide a deeply serious mission — to care for those who have served, to bring joy to the suffering, and to strengthen the bonds of friendship that unite all veterans.
More than a century after its founding, the Cooties continue to prove that humor and service can go hand in hand. Their motto, “Keep ‘em Smiling in Beds of White,” remains a timeless reminder of the healing power of laughter and love.
FAQs
1. What is the Military Order of the Cootie?
The Military Order of the Cootie is an honor degree of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), formed in 1920 to promote service, camaraderie, and support for hospitalized veterans.
2. Who can join the Military Order of the Cootie?
Only active VFW members in good standing who have shown dedication to veteran service can be invited to join the Cooties.
3. What does the phrase “Keep ‘em Smiling in Beds of White” mean?
It refers to the Cooties’ mission of visiting and comforting hospitalized veterans, bringing cheer and companionship to those in need.
4. Why is it called the Military Order of the Cootie?
The name comes from “cooties,” a term soldiers used during World War I to describe lice. It became a humorous symbol of shared hardship and unity among soldiers.
5. How does the Military Order of the Cootie support veterans today?
Modern Cooties continue their work by volunteering in VA hospitals, raising funds for veteran charities, supporting military families, and spreading morale through fellowship and humor.
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