Join the Herd
A century of military history, a lifetime of camaraderie.
The uniform might change across generations, but the bond between those who serve never does. The Military Order of the Carabao isn’t your typical stuffy historical society—we’re a tight-knit community built on shared service, family legacy, and a famous sense of good humor. If you served in an overseas campaign or want to carry forward the military heritage of your ancestors, we’d love to welcome you. Join us, and help keep one of America’s oldest military fellowships thriving.
Why join?
When you join the Military Order of the Carabao, you aren’t just signing up for an organization, you are stepping into a legendary legacy of military fellowship that spans over a century. Founded in Manila in 1900, our order has always believed that serious service deserves great camaraderie and a healthy dose of good humor. Whether you are active duty, a veteran, or a family member keeping a proud history alive, joining the Main Corral connects you with a distinct, cross-generational network of defense leaders and peers. Your membership helps us pass down these rich, lighthearted traditions, honor shared sacrifices, and keep the stories of our nation’s campaigns thriving for the next generation.
Unrivaled Cross-Generational Networking
Because the Order brings together high-ranking military commanders, senior defense officials, and industry leaders, membership places you in rooms you won’t find anywhere else. This isn’t corporate networking with business cards; it’s genuine fellowship built on a foundation of shared service. It bridges the gap between active duty, veterans, and civilian defense professionals, opening doors for mentorship and lifelong connections.
Access to Legendary Military Fellowship - The Annual Wallow
The heart of the Carabao is our social calendar, headlined by the historic Annual Wallow in Washington, D.C. This is far from a stuffy, formal protocol dinner. It is a massive, dress-uniform and black-tie celebration famous for its musical skits, political satire, and good-natured roasting of top brass. Members get exclusive access and priority “Herd” pricing to experience a rare tradition where national leadership lets its guard down to share a genuine laugh.
A Living Legacy for Your Family
Most military organizations end when the veteran passes away, but the Carabao is designed to pass the torch. Because membership is hereditary, joining gives your children and direct descendants (Tenero Carabaos) the right to join the Main Corral later in life regardless of whether they serve in the military themselves. It provides a permanent, structured way for your family to stay connected to your service and honor American military history for generations to come.
Membership Requirements
Membership is extended by the Membership Committee to individuals who have served as either an officer or an enlisted service member in the U.S. Armed Forces, as well as their direct descendants. Find where you fit in the herd below:
Expedicionario Carabao
For those who have served overseas in direct support of an officially recognized U.S. military campaign (including but not limited to the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, OIF, OEF, Operation Noble Eagle, and Operation New Dawn).
Tenero Carabao (Hereditary Membership)
The Order is hereditary. Eligibility is warmly extended to direct descendants (over 21 years of age) of any current member, past member, or anyone who was ever eligible to be a member, regardless of the descendant’s own military service.
Companero Carabao
For those who served in the Philippine Islands between July 4, 1913, and December 6, 1941, or anytime subsequent to July 4, 1946.
Amphibious Carabao
For World War II veterans who served west of the International Date Line where that service was directly tied to the liberation of the Philippines (December 6, 1941, to July 4, 1946).
Veteran Carabao
For those who served in the Philippine Islands during the foundational years of the order (May 1, 1898, to July 4, 1913) or during World War II (December 6, 1941, to July 4, 1946).
Associate Carabao
Extended to accredited war correspondents who served alongside any forces engaged in these military operations, or individuals who have rendered distinguished and valuable service to the Nation or the Order.
Honorary Carabao
Conferred exclusively by the Main Corral upon the President of the United States and the Ambassador to the United States from the Republic of the Philippines.
Attend the Wallow
The Annual Wallow isn't just another date on the social calendar it is a legendary Washington, D.C. tradition that has been going strong since 1901. If you've never been, it's time to join us.