The Sangin Valley Gun Club (SVGC) originated on social media in 2013, to foster camaraderie among veterans, civilians, and those still on active duty who had served in the Sangin District of Helmand Province, and in other districts of Afghanistan.  The forum honored the fallen, and provided a platform for members to share stories, pictures, videos, and other content.  Gold Star Families publicized memorial services and fundraisers to the community, and the network grew. 

By 2021, the SVGC included more than 14,000 people – service members, veterans, friends, and family members – from the myriad nations that had supported the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) mission, International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) operations, and other efforts in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2021. 

To better serve this diverse and growing community, the SVGC became a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit with the following priorities: active-duty and veteran services and support; transition assistance; education and awareness about the history and significance of the conflict in Afghanistan; and honor for the fallen.