The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) is a distinguished organization dedicated to supporting combat veterans and their families. Membership is a privilege, not a right, and understanding the eligibility requirements is crucial for those interested in joining. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the criteria, ensuring clarity and transparency for prospective members.
Who Can Join the CVMA?
The CVMA's primary focus is on providing camaraderie and support within a community of like-minded individuals who share a common bond: honorable service in the armed forces during a time of conflict. Therefore, eligibility hinges on several key factors:
1. Military Service Requirement:
- Honorable Discharge: Applicants must have received an honorable discharge from any branch of the United States Armed Forces. This is a non-negotiable requirement. Other discharge types, such as general or other than honorable, do not qualify for membership.
- Combat Service: While not explicitly stated as a universal requirement across all chapters, the overwhelming emphasis of the CVMA is on veterans who have served in combat or deployment zones. While the interpretation of "combat" might vary slightly between chapters, generally, deployments to recognized conflict areas are considered. It's crucial to contact your local chapter for clarification.
- Specific Conflicts: The association's history demonstrates a strong presence of veterans from conflicts such as Vietnam, the Gulf Wars, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, this shouldn't be interpreted as an exclusionary factor for veterans from other conflicts. Again, direct communication with a local chapter is recommended.
2. Motorcycle Ownership:
While the "Motorcycle" aspect is prominent in the name, it's important to note that motorcycle ownership is not necessarily a strict requirement for membership in all chapters. Some chapters may prioritize camaraderie and veteran support above strict adherence to motorcycle ownership. However, many members actively participate in rides and events, so motorcycle ownership is strongly encouraged and often the norm. It is best to inquire with the specific chapter you are considering joining.
3. Character and Conduct:
The CVMA values integrity and upholds high standards for its members. Applicants should demonstrate good moral character and a commitment to the principles of the association. A history of criminal activity or behavior inconsistent with the association's values could result in rejection of the application.
4. Chapter-Specific Requirements:
It's important to remember that individual chapters may have additional requirements or preferences. These could relate to specific types of military service, length of service, or other factors determined at the chapter level. Therefore, contacting your local CVMA chapter directly is the most reliable way to determine eligibility.
How to Apply
The application process typically involves contacting your local chapter. This allows you to discuss eligibility criteria specific to that chapter and to connect with current members. You will likely need to provide documentation of your military service and undergo a background check, the details of which vary from chapter to chapter.
Beyond Eligibility: The CVMA's Mission
Beyond meeting the eligibility requirements, understanding the CVMA's mission is crucial. The association's core values center on supporting veterans, their families, and their communities. Members participate in various charitable activities, fundraisers, and community outreach programs. Active participation in these activities is an important aspect of membership.
This guide provides a general overview of CVMA eligibility. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the official CVMA website or contact your local chapter directly. Remember, membership in the CVMA is about more than just meeting the minimum requirements; it's about commitment to the organization's mission and the camaraderie of fellow veterans.
