Membership

Membership

What It Means to Be a Member of the Society of the Great War

Membership in the Society of the Great War is more than a connection to the past—it’s an active commitment to remembrance, education, and preservation. Our members share a common bond: descent from individuals who supported the Allied cause during World War I, whether through military service abroad or civic contributions at home. Joining the Society is a way to honor your ancestors by helping to keep their stories alive and relevant for generations to come.

As a member, you become part of a community dedicated to uncovering, preserving, and promoting the human stories of the First World War. This includes access to exclusive research tools, educational resources, and opportunities to contribute to special projects such as Homefront Ancestors, Expeditionary Ancestors, and the ongoing cataloging of patriotic society efforts like those of the DAR. You’ll also be invited to participate in commemorative events, contribute to our publications, and engage in meaningful conversations about the war’s legacy.

But perhaps most importantly, being a member means taking an active role in shaping how history is remembered. You are not just preserving names and dates—you are safeguarding the values of service, sacrifice, and resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist, a student of history, or someone with a heartfelt family connection, the Society welcomes you to join us in this important work.

The Great War

Soldiers Mobilized

4.7 million

Approximately 4.7 million Americans served in the U.S. military during WWI. Of these, around 2 million U.S. soldiers were sent overseas to fight, mainly in France.

Women’s Service

30,000+

Over 30,000 American women served in uniform — as nurses, telephone operators (“Hello Girls”), and clerks.

Financial Cost

$32 billion

The war cost the U.S. government about $32 billion, which would be over $600 billion today. Over $21 billion was raised through Liberty Bonds across five bond drives.

Lineage Recognition

Honor Your Service Ancestor

Membership formally recognizes your connection to someone who served or supported the American effort in World War I—whether on the battlefield or the home front. It’s a meaningful way to preserve their story and ensure their sacrifice is remembered for generations.

Service Ancestors Record System

Preserve Their Legacy in History

As a member, you can submit detailed documentation of your ancestor’s wartime contributions to our official Service Ancestors Records System. This growing archive forms the historical backbone of the Society and serves as a permanent tribute to those who shaped the war effort.

Collectible Heritage Badges

Earn Recognition Through Research

Celebrate the unique ways your ancestor contributed to the war with custom-designed embroidered badges. Whether tied to combat service, medical relief, industrial support, or civic action, these badges allow members to visually honor their ancestor’s legacy.

Legacy Front Digital Publication

Stay Connected and Inspired

Receive access to Legacy Front, the Society’s digital journal, featuring member stories, historical insights, archival discoveries, and project highlights. It’s your link to the broader mission of remembrance and a community of like-minded descendants.

Founding Member Distinction

Be Among the First 1,000

Join during our inaugural year and be recognized as one of the first 1,000 members to carry forward this mission. Founding members receive a commemorative badge and help shape the future of the Society as we establish a national legacy of honor and remembrance.

Become a Member Today