Hereditary Membership (Member)

A male descendant, 12 years of age or older, whether through the maternal or paternal line, of the men honorably discharged from the military or naval service of the United States of America, who served during the Spanish American War, the Philippine Insurrection or the China Relief Expedition, from April 21st, 1898, to December 31st, 1902, shall be eligible to active membership in this organization; provided, however, that eligibility to membership in this order shall include legally adopted sons of those who are or were eligible to membership in the United Spanish War Veterans, provided, further, that sons-in-law of United Spanish War Veterans may be accepted into full membership.

Non-Hereditary Membership (Associate)

Men who do not have the ancestry to qualify for hereditary membership may become Associate Members if they can; demonstrate a genuine interest in the Spanish American War, the Philippine Insurrection, or the China Relief Expedition; and can subscribe to the purpose and objects of the Sons of Spanish American War Veterans.

An Associate Member may vote and hold any office in Camps except those of the President, Senior Vice President, Junior Vice President, National Secretary, and National Treasurer. Associates may not exceed one-third of the total membership of a Camp at the time of election.