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M.O.C.

The Honor Degree of the VFW

Military Order of the Cootie

Combining dedicated service with optimism, comradeship, good humor and a commitment to helping fellow veterans.

"Keep ’Em Smilin’ in Beds of White”

Service With a Spirit of Good Humor

The Military Order of the Cootie of the United States is a nonprofit veterans service organization recognized as the "Honor Degree of the VFW.” Membership recognizes active VFW members who have demonstrated leadership and outstanding service to the VFW and its programs.

VFW Honor Degree

The MOC recognizes VFW members whose leadership, service and active involvement have helped strengthen their Posts and advance the work of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Serving Veterans

Cooties devote their time and energy to supporting hospitalized veterans and helping bring comfort, encouragement and companionship during difficult times.

Optimism and Humor

The organization preserves the spirit of military humor and comradeship while performing serious and meaningful work on behalf of veterans and their families.

Supporting Hospitalized Veterans

The MOC’s best-known service program focuses on bringing cheer and companionship to veterans receiving medical care, rehabilitation or long-term support.

Through visits, activities and other forms of service, Cooties work to ensure that hospitalized veterans know they are remembered and appreciated.

The MOC Service DirectiveKeep ’Em Smilin’
in Beds of White

Distinctive MOC Traditions

The Military Order of the Cootie was founded in 1920 and has developed its own humorous terminology and traditions. These customs promote fellowship while keeping members focused on service to veterans.

Beneath the unusual names, colorful uniforms and good humor is a serious commitment to helping veterans, supporting VFW programs and strengthening comradeship.

Cootie Vocabulary

  • Pup Tent: A local MOC unit
  • Grand Pup Tent: A state organization
  • Supreme Pup Tent: The national organization
  • Scratch: An MOC meeting
  • Shavetails: MOC officers

Who May Become a Member?

Membership in the Military Order of the Cootie is reserved foractive members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Members are generally recognized for meaningful participation, leadership and service within the VFW.

MOC membership is by invitation and remains conditioned upon maintaining active VFW membership. Interested VFW members may visit the official MOC website to learn more about membership requirements and locating an appropriate Pup Tent.

Local MOC Information

This page provides general information about the Military Order of the Cootie. Contact VFW Post 759 with local questions or use the official MOC website to find current membership and Pup Tent information.

Learn More About the MOC

Visit the official Military Order of the Cootie website for organizational information, programs, membership guidance, forms and current national contacts.