In your case, Radix, you might also look at the VFW as well. They've recently altered their membership to lnclude troops who served overseas during time blocks. Yours just might fit!
I had a VFW which was very close to my home for 21 years. I literally could walk a few hundred yards through the woods and be in their parking lot. I never joined because of the restrictions.
Where I reside now I am quite close to an American Legion Post but I was surprised that they have the same restrictions on membership.
I'll look into the VFW's changes, thanks.