Based on the pragmatic ideals of the American Patriot Thomas Paine, VCS was established "by service-minded war veterans who believe we, the people, are most secure when our country is strong and responsibly engaged with the world.
Veterans for America continued VCS's focus on national security issues, with the added element of active humanitarian relief, mine mapping and other programs that address the consequences of war.
VCS focuses on four primary program areas: national security, civil liberties, energy policy and veterans healthcare and benefits.
Activities have included large veterans' sign-on letters urging caution to the President before the 2003 invasion of Iraq and a lawsuit against the government seeking documents related to torture at the Abu Ghraib prison and the Guantanamo Bay detention camp.
[2] VCS's current director is Anthony Hardie, a former state veterans agency official and former Congressional staff member.