History of the Military Order of the Cooties (MOC)

According to the Encyclopedia of Associations, 31st Edition, the M.O.C. or Military order of the Cootie was founded in 1920 when members of the Imperial order of the Dragon joined with World War I Veterans to form an Honor degree of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States of America. The term Cootie refers to the lice that so bothered the WWI Vets as they lived in the trenches.  The Doughboys said that within 1 or 2 days after being deloused, the Seam Squirrels would find their way back into the uniforms. The Military order of the Cootie is structured on a National [Supreme], State [Grand] and local [Pup Tent] level.  The M.O.C. is divided into 16 Regional Groups, 46 State Groups, and 1,015 Local Groups which are referred to as the Supreme Council, Supreme Pup Tent, Grand Councils, Grand Districts/Areas, and Grand Pup Tents. The Cooties visit and entertain hospitalized veterans and they support the VFW National Home for Children in Eaton Rapids, MI. The Cooties are also affiliated with the Women's Auxiliary. The M.O.C. hold their annual Convention during the third week of August.  Cooties see as their primary duty the bringing of comfort and joy to hospitalized Veterans hence their slogan "keep' em smiling in beds of white". The Cooties have several publications which include: The Bi-Monthly Cootie Courier Newspaper, The Monthly Grand and Pup Tent Publication, The Annual Program Book, and The Annual Roster. More information about the Cooties Contact the Supreme Pup Tent of the Military Order of the Cootie at 211 South Victoria, Iowa Park, Texas 76367.  Telephone number (817) 592-2741, Fax # (817) 592-9053