Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association: Full Guide 2026

Combat Vets Motorcycle Association (CVMA): Membership, Chapters & Mission

The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) is a 501(c)(19) nonprofit veterans’ charity made up of combat veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces who ride motorcycles. Founded in 2001, CVMA has chapters in all 50 states. Membership includes Full Members (verified combat service), Support Members (non-combat veterans), and Auxiliary Members (spouses of members).

Quick Facts

What Is the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association?

The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) is a nonprofit association of combat veterans from all branches of the United States Armed Forces who ride motorcycles as a hobby. As a registered 501(c)(19) veterans’ charity, CVMA’s mission is to support and protect those who have defended the country and its freedoms.

CVMA is not a motorcycle club (MC). It is an association. Members do not claim territory, do not have a clubhouse, and do not wear “cuts” or “colors.” Instead, members wear vests with a one-piece back patch.

The association’s motto is “Vets Helping Vets.” Members sponsor and participate in veteran-related motorcycle charity events each year, donating to veteran care facilities, individual veterans, and other veteran organizations.

CVMA History: From Internet Scam to National Charity

The CVMA story began in 1999 when the “Combat Vets Motorcycle Club” (CVMC) appeared online. Many veterans believed it was a legitimate organization. It was later discovered to be an internet scam stealing money from combat veterans.

Despite the scam, 45 veterans remained interested in forming a real organization. They established the Combat Veterans Association, which became a nonprofit on May 1, 2001. The “Original 45” adopted a CVMA/VFW patch with the VFW’s permission, as all members were or became VFW members entitled to wear the VFW patch.

In 2001, CVMA was granted official status by the State of Missouri. On December 15, 2002, the membership voted to make significant changes: VFW membership was no longer required, opening CVMA to all combat veterans who ride motorcycles. A new one-piece patch was adopted for Full Members only.

At the 2005 National Meeting, members approved a Supporter back patch for those with non-combat military service. Auxiliary and Support members could now wear a smaller 10-inch back patch.

Today, CVMA has chapters and detachments in all 50 states and overseas. The association’s slogan is “Combat Vets Forever, Forever Combat Vets”.

CVMA Membership Tiers

CVMA has three membership classifications: Full Members, Support Members, and Auxiliary Members.

Comparison Table: CVMA Membership Tiers

Full Members

Full Members are veterans who have been forward deployed to a combat zone and can provide verified proof of combat service. The only acceptable proof for membership is a copy of the DD-214 or service record book, which is forwarded to the National Board of Directors for approval.

Full Members must:

• Be of good character

• Own and operate a motorcycle of 500cc or greater

• Hold a valid motorcycle driver’s license with state endorsement and proof of insurance

• Pay $20 annual national dues

• Be approved by the National CVMA Board of Directors

Full Members wear the 12.5-inch one-piece back patch. This patch is a registered trademark and may only be worn by members in good standing.

Support Members

Support Members are veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who have non-combat military service and a strong dedication to helping veterans. They must be sponsored by a CVMA Full Member who has held membership for at least one year.

Support Members must:

• Be of good character

• Be a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces (non-combat service)

• Be sponsored by a Full Member in good standing

• Meet one of the following with their sponsor:

  • Ridden a minimum of 3,000 miles together

  • Attended three CVMA events together

  • Been known by their sponsor for a minimum of 6 months

• Own and operate a motorcycle of 500cc or greater

• Pay $10 annual national dues

Support Members wear a 10-inch back patch, supplied by their sponsor.

Auxiliary Members

Auxiliary Members are spouses, widows, or widowers of Full or Support Members in good standing. They must support the efforts of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and the CVMA.

Auxiliary Members must:

• Be of good character

• Be the current spouse, widow, or widower of a Full or Support Member

• Submit a copy of the marriage certificate with their application

• Pay $10 annual national dues

Riding a motorcycle is not a requirement for Auxiliary Members. Auxiliary Members do not have a vote in CVMA business.

How to Join the CVMA: Step-by-Step

Joining CVMA requires contacting a local chapter, completing an application, and providing proof of military service. Here is the process.

Step 1: Find a Local Chapter

Visit the official CVMA website at combatvet.us and navigate to the Chapters page. You can search by state and city to find a chapter near you. Many chapters have their own websites with contact information for chapter officers.

Step 2: Contact Chapter Leadership

Reach out to the chapter’s Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, or Membership Officer. Express your interest and ask about the application process. Requirements can vary slightly by chapter.

Step 3: Complete the Application

Applications are available upon request from chapter officers. You will need:

• Full Members: Copy of DD-214 showing honorable service and combat deployment

• Support Members: Copy of DD-214 showing honorable service (non-combat), plus sponsor verification

• Auxiliary Members: Copy of marriage certificate and sponsor verification

All applications are submitted directly to chapter officers for verification.

Step 4: Verify Motorcycle Requirements

For Full and Support Members, a representative of the Chapter Commander will examine:

• Your motorcycle (must be 500cc or greater)

• Your motorcycle license with state endorsement

• Proof of insurance

This verification is required before the application can be processed.

Step 5: Pay Dues

National annual dues are:

• Full Members: $20

• Support Members: $10

• Auxiliary Members: $10

Dues for members deployed in a war zone are waived. Life membership is available for $200 (Full) or $100 (Auxiliary).

Step 6: National Board Review

Full Member applications are forwarded to the National Board of Directors for final approval. Support and Auxiliary applications are verified at the chapter level.

Step 7: Receive Your Patch

Once approved, you will sign a Member Patch Agreement. The CVMA back patch is a registered trademark and remains CVMA property at all times. Patches must be returned if membership is terminated.

CVMA Patch Rules and Vest Standards

The CVMA back patch is a registered trademark that may only be worn by members in good standing with permission from the CVMA. Patches provided to members are property of the CVMA and must be returned when requested.

Patch Types

Patch Rules

• Members may not possess more than 2 patches at any time.

• Each back patch requires a usage fee not exceeding manufacturing and delivery cost.

• Patches must be returned immediately upon termination of membership.

• Failure to follow patch conditions could result in legal action for return of CVMA property and payment of legal fees.

Vest Standards

CVMA members wear vests, not “cuts” or “colors.” The patch on the back is one piece. Members do not claim territory or operate a clubhouse.

Diamond-shaped patches or emblems are not permitted, except military Shoulder Sleeve Insignia (unit patches). Diamond-shaped unit patches should not be worn over the heart or on the upper front of a vest or jacket.

CVMA Chapters in Illinois

Illinois has multiple CVMA chapters and detachments serving veterans across the state.

The Illinois 24-6 Chapter, known as the Blackhawk Valley Warriors, is based in Rockford. The chapter is comprised of Full Members with verified combat service and Support Members with non-combat service who are dedicated to helping veterans.

CVMA Illinois chapters participate in charity rides throughout the state. Each year, CVMA donates to the Marseilles memorial and the Illinois Veterans Home as part of its mission to support fellow veterans.

For a complete list of Illinois chapters and detachments, visit the official CVMA Chapters page at combatvet.us.

CVMA Charity Work and Fundraising

CVMA’s primary mission is “Vets Helping Vets.” The association sponsors and participates in motorcycle-related charity events each year, donating to veteran care facilities, individual veterans, other veteran organizations, and registered charities.

How CVMA Gives Back

• Charity motorcycle rides — Organized rides raise funds for veteran causes

• Direct veteran assistance — Financial support for individual veterans in need

• Veteran care facilities — Donations to VA hospitals, homes, and support centers

• Scholarships — Educational support for members and their families

• Community events — Poker runs, bike nights, and fundraising events

Examples of CVMA Charity Impact

In one notable case, CVMA Chapter 2315 raised over $21,000 and prepaid six months of rent for a veteran in need.

CVMA chapters regularly partner with organizations such as Fisher House, Freedom Paws Service Dogs, and local veteran service organizations.

Tax-Deductible Donations

CVMA chapters are registered 501(c)(19) veterans’ charities. Donations are tax-deductible, and 100% of donations go to support local veterans and veteran service organizations.

CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship Program

The CVMA Auxiliary administers a scholarship program for CVMA members and their families. This fund is supported by Auxiliary dues and donations.

Who Qualifies

The applicant must be a CVMA or CVMAA member, spouse, widow, legal child, stepchild, or grandchild of a CVMA or CVMAA member. All CVMA member types (Full, Support, or Auxiliary) are eligible as scholarship sponsors. Members must be in good standing at the time of submission.

Scholarship Details

• Awards are unrestricted other than the requirement to attend an institute of higher learning seeking an Associate’s or higher degree during the year of the award.

• The total amount awarded and number of awards given each year is determined in relation to dues and donations received.

• Donations to the scholarship fund can be made via check or PayPal.

CVMA National Structure and Leadership

CVMA is governed by a National Board of Directors (NBOD). The association operates through chapters organized by state and region.

National Board of Directors

The NBOD provides governance, approves Full Member applications, and maintains the national bylaws. The board works with state representatives and chapter leadership to coordinate activities across the country.

Chapter Structure

Each chapter has a Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, and other officers including Membership Officer, Treasurer, and Sergeant-at-Arms. Chapters operate under national bylaws and may adopt chapter-specific bylaws that do not conflict with national rules.

State and Regional Organization

Chapters are grouped by state and region. State representatives coordinate activities between chapters and the national board. The numbering system (e.g., 24-4, 24-6) indicates region and chapter number.

Benefits of CVMA Membership

CVMA membership offers camaraderie, purpose, and the opportunity to serve fellow veterans.

Camaraderie

Members connect with other combat veterans who understand their experiences. The shared bond of military service and motorcycle riding creates a supportive community.

Purpose

The “Vets Helping Vets” mission gives members a direct way to support other veterans through charity work and community service.

Motorcycle Community

CVMA organizes regular rides, social events, and charity fundraisers. Members share a love of riding regardless of motorcycle brand or style.

Leadership Opportunities

Members can serve as chapter officers, state representatives, or national board members. Leadership roles provide experience in nonprofit governance and veteran advocacy.

Scholarship Access

Members and their families can apply for CVMA Auxiliary scholarships to support higher education.

Common Mistakes When Joining CVMA

Prospective members often encounter avoidable issues during the application process. Here are the most common mistakes.

1. Assuming all veteran motorcycle groups are the same. CVMA is an association, not a motorcycle club. It does not claim territory, wear colors, or operate clubhouses.

2. Not having the correct DD-214. The only acceptable proof of combat service is a copy of the DD-214 or service record book showing honorable service and combat deployment.

3. Thinking non-combat veterans cannot join. Support Memberships exist for veterans with non-combat service who are dedicated to helping veterans.

4. Not having a sponsor for Support Membership. Support Members must be sponsored by a Full Member who has held membership for at least one year.

5. Assuming Auxiliary Members need motorcycles. Riding is not a requirement for Auxiliary Members.

6. Not verifying motorcycle requirements. Your motorcycle must be 500cc or greater, and you must have a valid license endorsement and insurance.

7. Failing to return patches upon leaving. CVMA patches remain CVMA property and must be returned when membership ends.

8. Overlooking life membership. Life membership ($200 for Full, $100 for Auxiliary) can save money over time.

9. Not checking for a local chapter first. Contact a chapter near you before submitting an application nationally.

10. Assuming dues are expensive. National dues are $20 per year for Full Members and $10 for Support and Auxiliary Members.

Key Takeaways

• CVMA is a 501(c)(19) veterans’ charity, not a motorcycle club. It is an association of combat veterans who ride motorcycles.

• Founded in 2001, CVMA grew from the “Original 45” members after the Combat Vets Motorcycle Club scam was exposed.

• Three membership tiers: Full Members (combat veterans), Support Members (non-combat veterans), and Auxiliary Members (spouses).

• Full Members must have verified combat service (DD-214) and a motorcycle of 500cc or greater.

• **Annual dues are $20** for Full/Support Members and $10 for Auxiliary Members. Life membership is $200/$100.

• CVMA has chapters in all 50 states, including Illinois chapters 24-4 (Taylor Ridge), 24-6 (Rockford), and 24-7 (Northern Illinois).

• The CVMA back patch is a registered trademark and remains CVMA property. Patches must be returned when membership ends.

• CVMA raises funds for veteran causes through charity rides and events. 100% of donations go to veterans.

• The CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship supports members and their families pursuing higher education.

• To join, contact a local chapter, submit your DD-214, verify your motorcycle, and pay dues.

Common Questions

What is the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association?

CVMA is a 501(c)(19) nonprofit veterans’ charity made up of combat veterans from all U.S. military branches who ride motorcycles. Founded in 2001, CVMA’s mission is “Vets Helping Vets.” The association has chapters in all 50 states and sponsors charity events supporting veteran causes.

Who can join the CVMA?

CVMA membership includes Full Members (verified combat service), Support Members (non-combat veterans sponsored by a Full Member), and Auxiliary Members (spouses, widows, or widowers of Full or Support Members). All members must be of good character and support the CVMA mission.

Do I need to be a combat veteran to join CVMA?

No. While Full Membership requires verified combat service, Support Membership is available to veterans with non-combat service who are dedicated to helping veterans. Support Members must be sponsored by a Full Member and meet relationship requirements.

How much are CVMA dues?

National annual dues are $20 for Full Members and $10 for Support and Auxiliary Members. Dues are waived for members deployed in a war zone. Life membership costs $200 for Full Members and $100 for Auxiliary Members.

Do I need a motorcycle to join CVMA?

Full and Support Members must own and operate a motorcycle of 500cc or greater. Auxiliary Members do not need a motorcycle. All styles, makes, and models of motorcycles are accepted.

What is the difference between CVMA and a motorcycle club?

CVMA is an association, not a motorcycle club (MC). CVMA does not claim territory, does not have a clubhouse, and does not wear cuts or colors. Members wear vests with a one-piece back patch.

How do I find a CVMA chapter near me?

Visit the official CVMA website at combatvet.us and navigate to the Chapters page. You can search by state and city. Illinois chapters include 24-4 (Taylor Ridge), 24-6 (Rockford), and 24-7 (Northern Illinois).

Can women join CVMA?

Yes. Women can join as Full Members if they are combat veterans, as Support Members if they are non-combat veterans, or as Auxiliary Members if they are spouses of members. CVMA membership is open to all qualified veterans and spouses.

What is the CVMA patch agreement?

The CVMA patch agreement is a document members sign acknowledging that the CVMA back patch is a registered trademark owned by CVMA. Patches remain CVMA property and must be returned when membership ends. Members may not possess more than 2 patches at any time.

What charity work does CVMA do?

CVMA sponsors and participates in motorcycle-related charity events, raises funds for veteran care facilities, provides direct assistance to individual veterans, and donates to veteran organizations. CVMA chapters are registered 501(c)(19) charities, and donations are tax-deductible.

Does CVMA offer scholarships?

Yes. The CVMA Auxiliary administers a scholarship program for CVMA members and their spouses, children, and grandchildren. The fund is supported by Auxiliary dues and donations. Awards require attendance at an institute of higher learning seeking an Associate’s or higher degree.

What happens if I leave CVMA?

If membership is terminated for any reason, you must immediately return all patches to an association officer or have written permission from CVMA to possess them. Patches remain CVMA property at all times.

Official Resources

• CVMA National Website — combatvet.us — Chapters, membership, and national information

• CVMA Chapters Directory — combatvet.us/chapters — Find a chapter by state and city

• CVMA Illinois Chapter 24-6 — cvma24-6.org — Blackhawk Valley Warriors (Rockford, IL)

• CVMA Auxiliary Scholarship — combatvet.us — Scholarship program information

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — va.gov — VA benefits, healthcare, and claims

• IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search — irs.gov — Verify 501(c)(19) status

• USA.gov — usa.gov — Government-wide veterans resources

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