Press Releases

VFW Honors National Black History Month

KANSAS CITY, Mo., - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to join the nation in honoring the profound contributions, resiliency and patriotism of Black American service members, veterans and their families during the month of February, National Black History Month.

While initially observed as a weeklong commemoration, it was President Gerald Ford who, in 1976, issued the first official observance and the establishment of Black History Month.

Dating back to the birth of our nation, Black Americans have served in every conflict, often defending freedoms that they were not fully afforded at home. From the courageous Buffalo Soldiers and the pioneering Tuskegee Airmen to the men and women currently serving today, their fight for democracy has helped fundamentally shape the strength of the U.S. Armed Forces.

This February, we encourage all citizens to move beyond simple observation by learning the stories of heroes like Doris Miller, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion and the countless unsung Black service members who have stood the watch. The more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary salute the indelible legacy of Black Americans in uniform, and we honor their bravery and continued service which helps to secure our way of life.

Remembering the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Monday, Jan. 19, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and its Auxiliary join the nation in honoring the life and legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., whose leadership, courage, and commitment to peaceful progress helped shape a stronger and more inclusive America.

Born on Jan. 15, 1929, King was a minister and civic leader who called on Americans to rise above division and work together to build a more just and peaceful society. His efforts to expand opportunity and strengthen the nation's shared values left a lasting mark on American history. Since becoming a federal holiday in 1983, the observance of King's birthday has also become a national day of service - a reminder that progress is achieved not only through words, but through action.

On behalf of the more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary, we honor the Rev. King by continuing to work for positive change in our communities - through volunteerism, civic engagement, and a shared dedication to making our nation stronger for generations to come.

VFW Action Alert: Tell Congress to Act on the Major Richard Star Act

Some combat-injured service members were forced to leave the military early because of serious injuries. Even though they served honorably, they do not receive the full military retirement they earned.

Under current law, their military retirement pay is reduced because they also receive VA disability benefits. This means veterans injured in combat lose part of the retirement they earned through years of service simply because they were hurt while serving our country.

The Major Richard Star Act would fix this unfair treatment. But right now, the bill cannot move forward unless Congress takes the next step.

At this stage, only the Armed Services Committees can act. These committees decide whether this bill gets a hearing, and without a hearing a bill can stall even when it has strong support.

Although this legislation advanced in the last Congress, it never received a public hearing where veterans and experts could testify and members could ask questions on the record. As a result, concerns about the bill have continued to be discussed privately instead of publicly examined.

When you take action today, your message will be sent to your own member of Congress and matched to their role, whether they already support the bill, need to be asked to support it, or serve on the committee that can help secure a hearing.

This is how voices are heard in Congress. By speaking up now, you are helping push this bill toward real consideration and helping ensure combat-injured veterans are treated fairly.

Sport Clips Haircuts Celebrates $1.22M Raised for Veterans' Scholarships & Thousands of Free Haircuts Given During its 2025 Help A Hero Campaign

SAN DIEGO - Sport Clips Haircuts today announced its 2025 Help A Hero Scholarship Campaign raised $1.22 million in support of military service members and veterans pursuing higher education. In addition, Sport Clips locations across the U.S. provided thousands of free haircuts to active-duty service members and veterans on Veterans Day, a gesture of gratitude for those who serve.

To mark the announcement, a check presentation was held today at VFW Post 1774 in La Mesa, where members of the local Sport Clips team provided haircuts for current military members and veterans in the greater-San Diego area. At the event, it was announced that since the scholarship program's founding in 2013, Sport Clips, along with its clients, team members and product partners, has contributed more than $16 million to the program administered by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), making it the nation's largest scholarship effort of its kind. The funds provide vital education and career training opportunities for service members transitioning from military to civilian life.

"We are incredibly grateful to our clients, product partners, franchisees, and dedicated stylists whose generosity and commitment made this year's campaign another success," said Gordon Logan, founder and chairman of Sport Clips and a U.S. Air Force veteran. "Their support is making a real impact through funds raised for scholarships and thousands of free haircuts that help honor the men and women who serve our country."

"This incredible donation raised by Sport Clips is a life-changing investment in the future of our transitioning service members," said Carol Whitmore, VFW national commander. "For many veterans, the path to a successful civilian career is blocked by education benefits that run dry before the finish line. This program ensures that the financial hurdle of a degree doesn't stand in the way of their dreams. Together, we are doing more than just paying for classes; we are honoring the service of these men and women by empowering them to lead in the workforce. On behalf of the VFW, I want to thank Sport Clips' team, partners and their dedicated clients for their unwavering support and for proving, once again, that they truly understand what it means to support those who serve."

Transitioning from military service into civilian employment can be challenging. Every year approximately 200,000 service members make this transition and often seek additional education or training to secure meaningful post-military careers. Yet many find that existing benefits, such as the GI Bill, don't fully cover the financial needs associated with higher education or career training, driving the demand for supplemental scholarship support like that provided by Sport Clips' Help A Hero campaign.

To date, Help A Hero has provided 3,546 total scholarships. The total includes 163 recipients for the upcoming spring 2026 semester. See the full list of spring 2026 recipients here. To apply for a fall 2026 scholarship before the April 30 deadline or to find out more, visit SportClips.com/HERO.

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About Sport Clips Haircuts
Sport Clips Haircuts is headquartered in Georgetown, Texas. It was established in 1993 and began franchising in 1995. The sports-themed haircutting franchise, which specializes in haircuts for men and boys, offers online check in for clients, and ranks #52 in the Entrepreneur "Franchise 500" for 2025 and was named a 2025 Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review. There are nearly 1,800 Sport Clips stores open in the U.S. and Canada. Sport Clips is the "Official Haircutter" of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), offers veterans preferential pricing on haircuts and franchises, and ranks #13 in the 2025 Top Franchise for Veterans list by Entrepreneur. Sport Clips provides "Haircuts with Heart" through its annual Help A Hero fundraiser that has contributed more than $16 million to the VFW; national partnership with St. Baldrick's Foundation, the largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants; and other national and local philanthropic outreach. Sport Clips is a proud sponsor of NASCAR's Joe Gibbs Racing team, Minor League Baseball (MiLB), and partners with select NCAA teams. To learn more about Sport Clips, visit sportclips.com.

VFW Reaffirms Commitment to US Military Following Operation Absolute Resolve

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) extends its congratulations to the service members who participated in Operation Absolute Resolve. This mission, resulting in the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, was executed in just under three hours with no U.S. fatalities. Maduro appeared in an American courtroom earlier this morning, finally facing multiple indictments from American grand juries brought under two presidential administrations on narco-terrorism, and drug and weapons charges. The actions of our military throughout the operation demonstrated exceptional precision, proficiency and unwavering integrity.

In complex and demanding conditions, these men and women upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces. Their discipline and commitment to mission execution reflected the values that generations of veterans have sworn to defend. Exactly 36 years earlier, brave young Americans projected America's might into the same region during Operation Just Cause and brought Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega to justice. This latest operation proved once again the strength, reach and resolve of America's military to bring a reckoning to those who wish us harm - no matter where they may hide.

The VFW wishes a speedy recovery to those wounded service members recovering stateside and remains steadfast in its mission to honor, support and advocate for all who serve in defense of our nation.

VFW Announces Annual Publications Contest

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is now accepting submissions for its 2025 National Publications Contest. VFW-related publications published up to four times annually will be judged in four categories. Non-related VFW publications published up to five times annually will also be accepted.

The categories are:

Department-level publications:

Newspaper/Newsletter
- Defined as being printed on newspaper stock.
Best Feature Story
- All publications judged together in this category and submitted separately. The story must be a published article of at least 300 words. It can be originally written by your newspaper/magazine staff or by a freelance writer, or be reprinted from a newspaper within your state. Feature articles published in online/electronic newsletters, newspapers or magazines also are eligible, but must be printed in color and submitted via USPS, not email.
Magazine
- Defined by physical size and paper stock, or designed for online distribution as a PDF. Online/electronic magazines must be printed in color and submitted via USPS, not email.

District/Post-level publications:

Overall Design and Content

Each category will be awarded three places: a grand award (first overall), silver (second overall) and bronze (third overall). Grand prize winners will receive a plaque, and the silver and bronze awards will take the form of a certificate suitable for framing.

The VFW Publication Department's awards system conforms to that of professional societies within the association publishing industry: National Mature Media Awards, Association Trends, Society of National Association Publications, Society of Professional Journalists and Communications Concepts. In other words, the same types of awards for which VFW magazine competes.

All entries submitted must have been published sometime between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025.

Examples of eligible subjects for the Best Feature submissions include operations of state VA departments, National Guard/Reserve unit deployments overseas, troop-support activities, Department VFW programs, dedication of state memorials and state or local commemorative events for the 50th anniversary of Vietnam. Editorials or opinion articles WILL NOT be considered this year. Articles written by VFW magazine staff and reprinted in District, Post or Department publications will not be considered. Only one issue per publication will be reviewed by judges. DO NOT send multiple editions, as judges will not review all of them.

All entries should be sent directly to the VFW National Headquarters. Similar to last year, the competition will be open to any submission, not just the winning submissions from the Department level. This is to remove any bias at all levels. One copy of each submission should be postmarked by April 1, 2026, to:

Publications Contest
VFW Magazine
406 W. 34th Street, Suite 523
Kansas City, MO 64111

All issues and articles published between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025, qualify.

VFW Extends Season's Greetings

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - As the holiday season brings families close together, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is extending our most heartfelt Season's Greetings and gratitude to our members, military families and the entire veteran community.

During what is considered by many as one of the busiest, and often the most difficult time of year, we remind Americans to pause and think of our nation's brave soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and Guardians currently standing the watch, often far from their homes and away from their own loved ones, so that we may safely enjoy the blessings of this time.

Their sacrifice - missing treasured moments and relaxing with their families - is a profound gift to our nation. Reflecting over the past year, we are proud of the successes achieved FOR VETERANS in 2025, and we look forward to all we'll accomplish in 2026.

May your holidays be filled with peace, comfort and the sincere appreciation of a grateful VFW, and nation.

Happy holidays from the VFW family to yours.

VFW Applauds Presidential Action Rescheduling Hemp-Derived Products for Treatments

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) applauds President Donald J. Trump for signing an Executive Order rescheduling marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, a decisive step recognizing legitimate medical uses and expanding research into medical marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD) to better support patients and doctors.

"This is a meaningful, veteran-centered action that puts science ahead of stigma," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "For too long, outdated policies have limited research into treatments that could help veterans manage pain, PTSD and other service-connected conditions. Today's decision acknowledges what veterans and their doctors have been saying for years: we need evidence-based options and the freedom to study them."

VFW Adjutant General Dan West added, "Rescheduling opens the door to rigorous medical research, clearer guidance for clinicians and safer pathways for veterans seeking relief. This action reinforces the importance of smart regulation that protects patients while allowing science to do its job."

On November 12, 2025, the VFW sent Congress a letter urging continued support for solid scientific research into hemp-derived cannabinoids. Signed by Whitmore and West, the letter underscored the urgent need for alternatives, noting that, "Every day, doctors hand out strong sedatives and psychoactive meds to help veterans cope. They work for some, but too many end up hooked, numb or dealing with brutal side effects. We've all watched good men and women get trapped in a cycle of pills that dull the pain but don't fix the problem."

The letter emphasized that early research into certain hemp compounds shows promise for symptom management and pain reduction with lower addiction risks - while cautioning against sweeping bans that would halt research, harm veteran-owned small businesses, and push veterans toward unsafe black-market products. "We're not pushing for wild, unregulated products or recreational use," the letter stated. "We're asking for smart policy: protect the public, but don't kill the research."

The VFW also commends and celebrates the advocacy and partnership of Tim Jensen, founder of the Grunt Style Foundation and a VFW Life member, who represented both the VFW and Grunt Style at the signing.

"Tim's leadership and tireless advocacy helped ensure veterans' voices were heard at the highest levels," said West. "We're grateful for his commitment to advancing responsible, research-driven policy."

Together with the Grunt Style Foundation, the VFW has made advocating for alternative, research-grounded medical treatments a priority on Capitol Hill. President Trump's signing of this Executive Order highlights the progress that can be made when the veteran community rallies around meaningful policy changes.

"The VFW will continue working with the Administration, Congress and partners to ensure balanced policies that promote research, protect consumers and give veterans every legitimate tool available to reclaim their health and quality of life," Whitmore concluded.

Happy Sixth Birthday, Guardians

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Dec. 20, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) joins our grateful nation in proudly recognizing the sixth birthday of the newest branch of the Armed Forces, the U.S. Space Force.

Established in 2019, the Space Force became a separate and distinct branch of service representing the crucial evolution of our national defense strategy. As we celebrate the Guardians who operate at the forefront of this new, critical warfighting domain, we're reminded of how their vital service ensures not only the security of our great nation, but of our global stability.

The VFW understands that the threats our nation faces are ever-changing and transcend traditional boundaries. The Guardians of the Space Force stand ready to defend our nation's interests against enemies operating in this complex, high-technology environment.

The more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary honor their commitment to vigilance, innovation and continued readiness against the ever-evolving digital and orbital threats of the 21st century. Happy sixth birthday, Guardians - may your watch be secure, and Earth's orbit and beyond, protected.

VFW Welcomes VHA Restructuring Initiatives

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is pleased with recent announcements made by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins and House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chairman Mike Bost, signaling their alignment on reforming the Veterans Health Administration's (VHA) structure, for which the VFW has long advocated. Currently, VHA is comprised of 18 Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs) however, this structure is not serving veterans due to inefficiencies and bureaucratic complexities, which has resulted in poor oversight, unequal and improper policy implementations, and inconsistent outcomes for veterans.

"When the VISN structure was introduced in the 1990s, it was supposed to offer oversight and accountability to the VA health care system," said VFW Executive Director Ryan Gallucci. "Unfortunately, what started as a modest quality control mechanism quickly ballooned into an unwieldy bureaucracy that numerous Inspector General reports show is where accountability often went to die. It's clear to the VFW that the current system of 18 networks - numbered 1 through 23 - is overdue for reform, and we thank Secretary Collins, Chairman Bost, and the committee for moving to deliver consistent, integrated care across VA."

VFW has consistently voiced concerns about the shortcomings of the status quo, including in three separate Congressional hearings in 2025. In January, one VFW employee highlighted her journey accessing appropriate and timely mental health care but experienced delays and roadblocks due to a VISN's misinterpretation of the 2018 MISSION Act. In March, then-VFW Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt pointed to the issue in the VFW's annual legislative presentation to the joint House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees. Finally, in July, another VFW employee spoke to the challenges of navigating maternity care in the community and the roadblocks created by miscommunication and lax quality controls. These are only a handful of examples where the current structure has made getting care more difficult for the veterans VHA is meant to serve.

Simultaneously, VA also announced the overhaul of its system of Community Care Networks (CCN), which enable veterans to receive care in the community when facing excessive wait times, medical services are not available at VA, or it is otherwise in their best medical interest. Currently, VA oversees five CCNs and plans to reduce that number to two, further eliminating bureaucratic barriers to veterans receiving the best care VA and its community care partners have to offer.

As a strong supporter of integrated care where VA and its community providers work together to deliver timely, quality care to veterans, the VFW applauds this move and looks forward to collaborating with Congress and VA leadership to ensure this strategic shift builds upon lessons learned to achieve truly integrated health care experiences among veterans receiving both direct VA care as well as services from community providers.

"The VFW has been consistent for more than a decade that community care is part of VA care - yet since the earliest days of the Choice Program and now the MISSION Act, we have seen fits and starts with how VA gatekeeps community care referrals across the enterprise," said Gallucci. "We hope that as VA revamps its CCNs that we can achieve seamless integration of care, whether it is delivered through direct VA providers or VA's community partners - once and for all burying the unrealistic boogeyman of privatization that has stymied modernization."

VFW Conveys Condolences for National Guard Members Killed, Wounded in Syria

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is heartbroken by the tragic loss of two Iowa Army National Guard soldiers and one U.S. civilian, and by the injuries sustained by three others in the suspected ISIS attack in Palmyra, Syria, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025.

On behalf of the VFW and our members around the world, I extend our deepest condolences to the Gold Star families of Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard and Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar. Words cannot ease the pain of this loss, but please know that a grateful nation stands with you and honors your loved ones' courage and sacrifice.

As an Iowa native, this tragedy is especially personal. Sgt. Howard, age 29, was from Marshalltown, and Sgt. Torres-Tovar, age 25, was from Des Moines. Both were members of 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division. These soldiers were our neighbors, our friends and our family, and their service and devotion to duty reflect the very best of our state and our country.

This holiday season, I urge all Americans to keep in their thoughts and prayers the deployed U.S. service members, particularly the approximately 1,800 Iowa Army National Guard soldiers supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, who continue to stand in harm's way around the world, confronting the very real threat of terrorism and those who seek to undermine our freedoms and our way of life. We will never forget their sacrifice, nor the families who bear its weight every day.

VFW Marks the 14th Anniversary of the End of the Iraq War

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Dec. 15, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) marks the 14th anniversary of the conclusion of the Iraq War. We pause in solemn reflection to honor the service of the more than 1.5 million soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who deployed to Iraq from March 2003 to December 2011 and pay tribute to the nearly 4,500 courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our nation and advance the cause of freedom.

As an organization comprised of combat veterans, VFW members recognize the tremendous burden carried by our Iraq War veterans and their families, many whom endured multiple, demanding deployments and who often carried the invisible wounds of war as they returned home.

While this major conflict officially ended, the threat remains. The VFW continues to honor the selfless service of our men and women currently deployed to the region to ensure stability, and to help keep us safe here at home.

Please join the more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary in honoring the veterans of the Iraq War and remembering our brave defenders who continue to carry the torch of freedom forward.

VFW Applauds Common Sense Improvement to Women Veterans' Health Care

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) applauds the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for taking decisive action to improve women veterans' access to essential health services. VA's new policy allowing women to schedule gynecology appointments directly, without first obtaining a referral, removes unnecessary primary care visits and extended wait times for women-specific medical needs. This bureaucratic hurdle has finally been eliminated through this common-sense decision. I extend my sincere gratitude to VA Secretary Doug Collins and his team for advancing this long-overdue change and for their commitment to strengthening care for the growing number of women who have served.

Recent VFW testimonies before Congress have highlighted persistent access challenges and the need for practical reforms just like this one. These testimonies reinforce the real-world experiences of women veterans across the country, experiences that make clear how important such streamlined processes can be.

As the first woman to lead the nation's largest organization of combat veterans, and as a former Army Nurse who relies on VA for my own health care, I know firsthand how vital it is for women veterans to feel welcomed, respected and understood when they enter a VA facility. For VA to remain a truly veteran-centered health system, removing barriers and eliminating inefficiencies must remain a priority.

Women are the fastest-growing segment of the veteran population. By enabling women veterans to directly access the specialized care they need, the VA is not only enabling improved health outcomes but also reaffirming its commitment to treating every veteran with dignity, respect and urgency. The VFW looks forward to continued collaboration with Secretary Collins to identify additional hurdles and work together to eliminate them, strengthening access, expanding trust and ensuring that all veterans receive the timely, high-quality care they have earned.

VFW Calls on VA Secretary After Second Suicide at VA Facility in 2025

WASHINGTON - We are saddened by the tragic loss of a veteran who died by suicide in the parking lot of the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital yesterday. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who are grieving. Every loss of life in our veteran community is a solemn reminder of the challenges many continue to face.

This heartbreaking incident marks the second veteran suicide at this facility in just eight months, a deeply troubling pattern that cannot be ignored. The VFW was in immediate communication with the office of Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins to express our concern and urge them to take immediate and decisive action. We heard back from the Secretary's office quickly, committing to treat this situation with the seriousness and urgency it demands, providing a "fresh focus on reaching those who need help" across the VA system.

This second tragedy underscores the extreme need for VA to take a hard, comprehensive look at the systems, practices, and culture within this hospital and across the enterprise to ensure veterans in crisis are not falling through the cracks.

The VFW commits to working with VA leadership to undertake a thorough review of outreach efforts, mental wellness support and crisis-response procedures wherever we can. Accountability and compassion from the entire veterans' community must guide every step forward.

As we enter a time of year that can be uniquely difficult for many, we also ask our veteran community to stay connected. Check on your battle buddies, reach out to those who may be struggling, and remind one another that help and hope are always within reach.

Our vigilance, our compassion, and our willingness to act can save lives. The VFW stands ready to work with the Department of Veterans Affairs to strengthen the safety net our veterans deserve.

If you're a veteran in crisis or concerned about one you know, support is available. Contact the VA Crisis Line: Call 988/Press 1; Text 838255; Chat at veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat.

VFW Commemorates National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Dec. 7, National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) joins a grateful nation as we mark the 84th anniversary of the unprovoked ambush that tragically claimed the lives of 2,403 American service members and civilians. That day remains the starkest reminder of the sudden, devastating price of freedom.

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor did more than just inflict damage. It forged a powerful sense of national unity as a generation of patriots rose to form the "Greatest Generation." These men and women committed wholly to protecting democracy against global tyranny.

Today, the VFW is dedicated to ensuring the legacy of every man and woman who served - from the wreckage of Battleship Row to the front lines across the globe - is preserved and never forgotten. On this National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, the more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary ask every American to take a moment to remember and be inspired by all who have served and sacrificed.

Action Alert: Tell Congress Veterans Deserve Safer Treatment Options

Veterans are being prescribed powerful psychiatric medications, often several at once, without clear written information about the risks. Many were never warned about severe side effects or dangerous drug interactions. Others are left with few PTSD treatment options beyond medication, even when innovative therapies could offer real relief.

This is unacceptable. On Dec. 3, the Senate is holding a hearing to examine medication management in VA care. The VFW is submitting a Statement for the Record because veterans' stories cannot be ignored any longer. Congress must act.

Two House bills would bring real protection and real options:

H.R.4837, Written Informed Consent Act, would require clear written information before VA prescribes certain psychiatric medications.
H.R.2623, Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act of 2025, would create five VA centers to expand access to cutting-edge PTSD treatments.

Veterans deserve transparency, safety, and real choices. They do not deserve a maze of prescriptions and side effects.

Tell Congress to cosponsor these bills and ensure veterans receive the protection, transparency and treatment options they deserve.

VFW Responds to National Guard Members Shot on Patrol in DC

WASHINGTON - As Americans gather this Thanksgiving, we are reminded once more of the sobering sacrifices that we ask our brave men and women in uniform to make. Today, two members of the West Virginia National Guard were on patrol in Washington, D.C., when they were shot in what authorities are calling a "targeted shooting."

The soldiers are reportedly in critical condition tonight. We are praying for them and their families. We also think of the innocent bystanders who were in our nation's capital, just trying to enjoy the day when unspeakable violence sent them running for cover. Violence like this has no place in America and we know the perpetrator will face justice for this heinous act.

We are reminded as a nation that service above self is why brave Americans volunteer to wear the uniform. These brave soldiers were called away from their families this Thanksgiving and ready to stand up to whatever dangers may await them.

While many Americans are divided over the role our National Guard plays in military operations both at home and abroad, make no mistake that the brave Americans who volunteer for service understand that their job is to carry out their mission with honor, and the VFW will continue to muster our resources to support their selfless service.

The soldiers who were shot today fulfilled the most serious obligation in their oath of service, and tonight we honor their service and hope for their full recovery.

As we gather tomorrow to give thanks, let us renew our commitment to those who volunteer to wear the uniform regardless of our personal feelings on the missions to which they have been assigned. As Americans, it is our responsibility to ensure that all who are called to duty may return safely to their loved ones and the communities they have pledged to serve.

A Time for Gratitude and Thankfulness

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - This Thanksgiving, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) extends our deepest well wishes to our members, their families and the entire military and veteran community. This holiday offers us a sacred opportunity to pause and reflect not just on the food we share, but on the profound freedoms and abundant blessings we enjoy as Americans.

Thanksgiving is built upon the simple, yet powerful act of gratitude. The VFW is thankful for the combat veterans who are the backbone of our organization, and for the active-duty personnel who stand watch today, far from their own loved ones. We encourage all Americans to look around their tables in grateful appreciation while being mindful that everything we have to celebrate is a direct result of that service and sacrifice.

As we raise our forks, our hearts turn especially to the military families whose loved ones cannot be home today. To the spouses, children and parents whose chairs remain empty, the VFW holds you close in our thoughts. Your resilience, fortitude and willingness to endure separations, especially during special holidays, is an act of service just as vital as any performed in uniform. We thank you for the sacrifice you make, and we remain dedicated to supporting you throughout the year. May this day still bring you comfort, peace and the warm gratitude of a grateful nation.

From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

VFW Reaches $16.2 Billion Cumulative Milestone for Represented Veterans

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to announce it has set a new milestone for its National Veterans Service (NVS) program by recouping $16.2 billion in total compensatory awards for the more than 608,000 veterans it represents.

"Nothing makes me prouder than the work VFW Accredited Claims Representatives do day in and day out for veterans, transitioning service members and surviving dependents," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "It is astonishing to me that this profound amount of $16.2 billion was recovered by men and women who do this service officer work free to the clients they assist. I am so grateful they are a part of our great organization."

The NVS Accredited Service Officer network is comprised of 2,278 dedicated professionals who are employed by the VFW, partner nonprofits, as well as state and local government agencies nationwide. Each service officer is accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide free claims assistance to transitioning service members, veterans, their families and survivors. In the last year alone, this network processed approximately 164,000 new VA claims. Of those new claims, about 14,000 were filed through the VFW's Pre-Discharge Claims Program, which supports service members as they prepare to transition out of the military. In all, NVS represented more than 608,000 claimants.

"Every day, our VFW Accredited Service Officers show the tenacity, dedication and genuine care that veterans deserve," said VFW NVS Director Michael Figlioli. "They stand shoulder-to-shoulder with those who wore the uniform, guiding them through the VA claims process and making sure they receive the benefits they've earned. I am truly humbled by their commitment, integrity and the life-changing impact they make for veterans and their families."

VA disability compensation is an earned benefit for veterans whose injuries or illnesses were sustained or aggravated during their military service. Although guaranteed by law and embedded in the promises made at enlistment, this benefit is not automatically granted. Veterans must establish service-connection by demonstrating three critical elements: an event, exposure or injury that occurred during service, a current diagnosis and a medical nexus connecting the two. Once eligibility is established and service connection is confirmed, disability compensation is provided to help offset the effects service-related conditions have during a veteran's lifetime.

The VFW's NVS program relies on grants and donors to operate. To support NVS during this giving season, click here.

VFW Will Not Stay Silent While America's Heroes are Dragged Through the Mud

WASHINGTON - The Washington Post has decided that America's veterans, those who have fought, bled and sacrificed for this nation, are the new villains of these last couple of weeks. Their recent reporting, suggesting that veterans are filing "dubious" or "fraudulent" disability claims to milk the VA system, is nothing short of disgraceful. It's a smear campaign against the very people who have given this country everything it has asked for, and more.

Let's be clear: This isn't investigative journalism. It's character assassination. By cherry-picking anecdotes and twisting statistics, the Post is peddling a dangerous and insulting narrative, insinuating that America's veterans are cheats, hustling for benefits they don't deserve. That lie dishonors every man and woman who has ever raised their right hand and sworn an oath to defend this country "against all enemies, foreign and domestic."

Here's the truth the Post won't print: Veterans aren't gaming the system. They are the system's victims who are forced to navigate a bureaucratic labyrinth that too often grinds them down, delays their care and treats them with suspicion from day one. Many spend years fighting for recognition of their injuries, only to be met with accusations of deceit by those who have never spent a single day in uniform.

And let's talk about those injuries. They are not theoretical. They are not "questionable." They are the direct, documented consequences of military service and include blast concussions, toxic exposures, crushed joints, traumatic brain injuries and the invisible wounds of war that follow veterans long after they've come home. To suggest these men and women are exaggerating or fabricating their pain is not just offensive, it's immoral.

If the Post's reporters had done any honest research, they would understand that the rise in disability claims is not proof of fraud, it is proof that modern warfare has changed. Thanks to advances in battlefield medicine, more soldiers survive their wounds today than ever before. But survival is not the same as recovery. Today's veterans are surviving with prosthetic limbs, chronic pain, PTSD and lungs scarred by burn pits, and somehow, the Post thinks the problem is that too many of them are getting the help they need.

Even more troubling is how this kind of reporting risks driving a wedge between veterans and the very public they swore to protect. By framing veterans as opportunists, it plants seeds of mistrust making ordinary Americans question the legitimacy of the men and women who fought for their freedoms. That is not just misguided; it is harmful. Veterans and the American people are on the same side. We share the same values, the same communities and the same belief in service and sacrifice. Intentional or not, attempts to pit one against the other only undermine the unity that defines this nation.

By reintroducing this harmful narrative, veterans who were already reluctant to file a claim for VA benefits will now be less likely to reach out to VA-accredited claims representatives for assistance. Representatives like Cindy Noel, VFW assistant director of field operations and a stalwart pre-discharge claims representative singled out by the Post, work tirelessly to connect transitioning service members around the world with the VA care and benefits they have earned. The Post's assertion of veterans' VA disability claims being "dubious" will cause a whole new generation of veterans to choose suffering in silence over risking being scrutinized, ridiculed and shamed for seeking the help they need and deserve.

Let me remind the editors of The Washington Post of something they seem to have forgotten: When Americans go to war, they sign a contract with their government. That contract says: You serve. You sacrifice. And when you come home broken - physically, mentally or spiritually - your nation will take care of you. That is not a suggestion. That is a sacred obligation. It is the cost of freedom. Maybe the Post should consider that before scheming to exploit the plight of service men and women to squeeze more paid subscriptions out of their readers.

To accuse veterans of "milking" the system is to accuse them of betraying that contract. But they are not the ones breaking faith. The Post is. The real betrayal lies in questioning the legitimacy of those who've already paid the highest price imaginable.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars will not stay silent while America's heroes are dragged through the mud by the suspicion and misinformation of armchair cynics and data manipulators. We will absolutely stand up to anyone who tries to discredit our VA-accredited claims representatives. If The Washington Post wants to expose fraud, it should start with the broken promises and bureaucratic neglect that plague the VA, not with the veterans who depend on it. The problem to fix is not the integrity of our veterans, it's the inefficiency and delay that too often define the system meant to serve them.

Our veterans do not owe America another thing. America owes them. It is time to stop the slander, stop the suspicion and start honoring the only contract that truly matters - the one written in sacrifice, sealed in blood and signed in service to the United States of America.

It's time to Honor the Contract.

VFW Celebrates Veterans' Enduring Legacy

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Nov. 11, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and its 1 million members salute in recognition, gratitude and respect, every American who has bravely put on our nation's uniform in defense of our democracy and freedom.

For the VFW, Veterans Day is not just any holiday, but a sacred opportunity to pause and honor the extraordinary service, selfless sacrifice and unyielding commitment of generation after generation of our nation's veterans. From the battlefields of World War I to the front lines of today, their vigilance ensures the preservation of the freedoms and country we love so dearly.

The debt our nation owes extends far beyond the uniform, as we recognize the vital support and immense sacrifice borne by military spouses, children and families. The VFW is continuously awed by their resilience and fortitude, while also lifting up those still missing and unaccounted for. The VFW continues to reiterate its solemn vow to the nearly 81,000 who remain unaccounted for, promising that we will never cease our efforts to bring them home.

Veterans Day is at its core, a day of celebration and recognition, but this year our nation's veteran and military communities face unprecedented hardships. The government shutdown created significant uncertainty and financial strain, particularly for active-duty service members and our National Guard and Reserve who continue to fulfill their oath without the guarantee of their next paycheck.

The VFW remains resolved in being the voice for veterans and remains dedicated to doing everything it can to ensure our uniformed heroes and their families receive the timely and equitable pay they earn. Further, VFW Posts around the country continually step up through food bank donations and distributions, financial assistance and providing other means of vital support to military and veteran families difficult and uncertain times.

For 126 years the VFW's mission hasn't changed, and we will continue to advocate tirelessly for the benefits, health care and rights earned by all who have served. Together with its VFW Auxiliary, we call on all Americans to join us on Veterans Day in honoring our veterans, recognizing their indispensable legacy and ensuring their service is honored not just today, but in the years and decades to come.

VFW Salutes the Marine Corps on 250 Years

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Nov. 10, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proudly joins in with a grateful nation to honor the United States Marine Corps and celebrate its 250th birthday, honoring two and a half centuries of distinguished service, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the nation it serves.

On this historic milestone, the VFW recognizes the Marine Corps as the world's premier expeditionary fighting force, renowned for its elite readiness and its ability to answer the call in any time and place. Often being the first to stand in defense, the Marine Corps was founded on Nov. 10, 1775, by the Second Continental Congress resolution that "two Battalions of Marines be raised" for service as landing forces for the fleet and gave birth to the Continental Marines.

The Marine Corps 250th birthday is more than a date; it is a celebration of a legacy that has fundamentally shaped the defense of our nation. Respected by our allies, feared by our enemies, and revered by all Americans, the Marines have always embodied the highest standards of courage and devotion.

For their immense service, sacrifice and dedication, the more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary are honored in saying happy 250th birthday and 'thank you' to the chain of brave men and women who proudly earned the title of Marine. Semper Fi!

Take part in celebrating the Marine Corps' 250th anniversary, learn more at homecoming250.org.

VFW Honors National Native American Heritage Month

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proudly recognizes National Native American Heritage Month throughout November, honoring the service members and veterans of Indigenous heritage whose warrior spirit and unwavering commitment have enriched and defended our great nation for generations.

The first official month celebrating Native American heritage was in 1990 when President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November of that same year as "National American Indian Heritage Month."

Since the American Revolution, Native Americans have fought and died in our nation's wars. Their service is a testament to the profound patriotism and dedication to the land and the values our nation represents. We would not be able to enjoy the freedoms bestowed upon us today if it were not for their many sacrifices.

Native American service members have earned every major combat award, demonstrating incredible bravery and skill across all branches of the military. With a deep sense of duty and community, Indigenous service members have provided the military with adaptability, resilience and tactical expertise.

The VFW encourages all Americans to use National Native American Heritage Month as an opportunity to learn more about the rich history, culture and contributions of Native American veterans. On behalf of the more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary, we proudly honor the heritage of our fellow brothers and sisters-in-arms from the Tribal Nations, salute their immeasurable contributions and sacrifices to our United States, and remain steadfast in ensuring their legacy of service is never forgotten.

VFW Still Serving Campaign Shatters Records

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) launched Still Serving in March 2020 to highlight how America's veterans continue to serve in their local communities after transitioning from the military. What started as a campaign became a movement as veterans across the world stepped up to share stories of their continued service. In 2022, the organization launched an outgrowth of the initiative, VFW Day of Service - an annual dedicated day of community service projects led by veterans throughout the world. To date, more than 3,700 community service events have taken place. The Still Serving initiative has continued to break records for year-over-year growth. For example, from FY2024 to FY2025, engagements grew 112% and Day of Service events more than tripled.

"Service doesn't end when the uniform comes off," said Carol Whitmore, VFW national commander. "The Still Serving campaign reminds us that veterans, to include the collective VFW, not only give back to our local communities, but we stand shoulder to shoulder with our fellow veterans, helping them navigate their VA benefits, advocating for enhanced quality of life programs and resources and ensuring no one is left behind. Veterans continue to answer the call, proving every day that the spirit of service lasts a lifetime."

According to the 2021 Veterans Civic Health Index¹, veterans average nearly 30% more volunteer hours per year and outpace civilians by 15% in charitable donations. Additionally, nearly 40% more veterans belong to a group working on community issues.

Since its launch, 6.5 million people have engaged with the campaign through the Still Serving website, videos and social channels. Additionally, more than 3,500 veterans have shared their personal stories of sacrifice and service.

Building on a legacy of service spanning over a century, the Still Serving initiative captures the essence of the VFW and its members, reflecting the ongoing evolution of today's VFW Posts as a place where veterans can seek support, share camaraderie with those who have similar experiences and give back to both fellow veterans and the broader community. The VFW encourages veterans and their families to share stories on social media using #StillServing to showcase how they themselves continue to answer the call to serve or honor a veteran in their lives who believes the spirit of service transcends military life.

Visit vfw.org/StillServing to learn more about the campaign, make a shareable image honoring veterans in their lives, watch videos of VFW members making a difference and see a collection of user-generated content.

¹2021 Veterans Civic Health Index

VFW Salutes US Navy on Its 250th Birthday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proudly joins the nation in celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States Navy, which has been our unwavering maritime shield, defending the seas to ensure America's security and economic prosperity.

On Oct. 13, 1775, a resolution of the Continental Congress established what is now the United States Navy with "a swift sailing vessel, to carry ten carriage guns, and a proportionable number of swivels, with 80 men, be fitted, with all possible despatch, for a cruise of three months ..." While disbanded for a short while after the end of the Revolutionary War, it was permanently established by the passage of the Naval Act, signed into law by President George Washington in 1794.

For two and a half centuries, the Navy has demonstrated an unmatched capability to project power and protect American interests across the globe. With carrier strike groups, submarines, and expeditionary forces, the Navy remains the world's most dominant sea-fighting force, ensuring that America's reach extends wherever the waves crash.

As we celebrate this historic milestone on Oct. 13, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting all sailors and their families. Their selflessness in defending our nation's interests, often in the most challenging and distant theaters, ensures the safety of our country and its allies.

Please join the more than 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary in saluting America's sailors, past and present, and thanking them for 250 years of extraordinary service and sacrifice.

Take part in celebrating the Navy's 250th anniversary, learn more at homecoming250.org.

VFW, SVA Announce 2025/2026 Legislative Fellowship Selectees

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), together with Student Veterans of America (SVA), is pleased to announce its selection of six student veterans to complete the 2025/2026 VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship. Now in its 12th year, student veteran fellows gain experience advocating for a solution to a pressing veterans' issue by engaging leaders within their local communities, through social networking and in the halls of Congress.

"Veteran advocacy is just as important today as it was back in the Bonus March days," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "As a team that spans generations, it's up to us to ensure we receive the benefits we earned and were promised. Through the VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship, we equip emerging veteran advocates and leaders with the tools they need to develop sound advocacy plans and carry them through to action," Whitmore continued. "I'm so proud of this partnership with SVA because our fellows will help amplify the veteran's voice on Capitol Hill."

The VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship is a roughly semester-long immersive experience through which fellows receive advocacy training and mentorship from each organizations' professional staff, create community outreach plans, and actively engage community and national leaders on a shared VFW and SVA policy priority. To qualify for the fellowship, student veterans must be a VFW member, be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university program, write an essay conveying the importance of veteran advocacy, submit a video detailing why they are a good fit for the program, and complete an interview.

"The VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship prepares the next generation of veteran advocates - student veterans who turn lived experience into actionable, bipartisan policy," said SVA National President and Chief Executive Officer Jared S. Lyon, a VFW Post 3308 Life member in Tallahassee, Florida. "Together with the VFW, we're training leaders who research, build and brief real solutions on Capitol Hill, and they're already shaping outcomes for our community. As a proud VFW Life member and SVA's president & CEO, I see in every fellow the future of veteran advocacy: informed, disciplined and unafraid to lead."

The six fellows selected for the 2025/2026 class are:

Shadic Anderson, Marine Corps veteran, California State University
Juanita Murillo Garcia, Army veteran, Northeastern University
Giancarlo Gonzalez, Army veteran, St. Petersburg College
Kimmie Kim, Navy veteran, Vanguard University of Southern California
Austin Lawrence, Navy veteran, Harvard University
Sarah Lively, Air Force veteran, Concordia University

New this year, fellows will now participate in the SVA Leadership Institute in Washington, D.C., from Oct. 15-19, 2025, where they will receive comprehensive leadership training alongside SVA's top chapter leaders. In January 2026, the cohort will attend SVA's 18th Annual NatCon before heading to Washington, D.C., at the end of February to participate in the VFW's annual Washington Conference. During the VFW's conference, fellows will join with VFW advocates from their respective states to discuss the shared VFW-SVA policy priority with lawmakers and their staff on Capitol Hill. This culminating experience enables fellows to employ the skills they learned throughout their fellowship to affect meaningful policy change as students and as future leaders.

Operating for more than a decade, the VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship continues to be a beacon of collaboration between two organizations whose passions are rooted in serving veterans. Student veterans who complete this program often continue to make noteworthy local and national contributions to the veteran community through myriad roles including those in leadership, service and advocacy. Notable program alumni include, but are not limited to, SVA's very own Vice President of Government Affairs, Tammy Barlet; Jennifer Ross, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America Manager of Federal Policy; Katherine Cassell, VFW Assistant Director for Veterans Health Policy; and Ken Wiseman, member of VFW's National Council of Administration and National Legislative Committee.

To interview any of the selected fellows, contact VFW National Legislative Service Associate Director, Joe Grassi, at jgrassi@vfw.org.

About SVA: With a focused mission on empowering student veterans, Student Veterans of America® (SVA) is committed to providing an educational experience that goes beyond the classroom. Through a dedicated network of nearly 1,600 on-campus chapters in all 50 states and 4 countries representing more than 750,000 student veterans, SVA aims to inspire yesterday's warriors by connecting student veterans with a community of like-minded chapter leaders. Every day these passionate leaders work to provide the necessary resources, network support, and advocacy to ensure student veterans can effectively connect, expand their skills, and ultimately achieve their greatest potential. For more information, visit us at studentveterans.org.

VFW to Washington Post - Veterans' Disability Benefits are Not 'Loopholes' to Exploit

To the Editors of The Washington Post,

Your recent article, "How some veterans exploit $193 billion VA program, due to lax controls" (October 2025), is not just a disservice to veterans - it is a dangerously misleading piece that feeds into damaging stereotypes and ignores both the moral and legal foundations of the Department of Veterans Affairs disability system.

Let's be absolutely clear: veterans' disability benefits are not charity. They are compensation owed for injuries and conditions incurred in the line of duty - promised by a government that asked men and women to risk their lives and health, often irreversibly, on its behalf. These benefits are not some "loopholes" for opportunists to exploit; they are the very least this country can do for the people it sent to war repeatedly, especially after more than two decades of sustained conflict without a draft.

Your article leans heavily on inflammatory anecdotes and edge cases, portraying veterans as system abusers, while ignoring the structural reality: combat wounds are not the only occupational hazards of military service. The daily grind of service - exposure to toxic environments, repeated concussions, sleep deprivation, moral injury, sexual trauma, constant stress, and grueling physical demands - leaves lasting scars. Just because a veteran wasn't blown up by an IED doesn't mean they aren't disabled.

Invisible injuries like PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and toxic exposure-related illnesses are not "new" or suspect; we just finally stopped ignoring them. Every generation of veterans before this one suffered in silence, and many died without care or acknowledgment. To now say that recognizing these conditions is proof of fraud is not only illogical - it is cruel.

The article also seems to misunderstand how VA disability ratings work. The system doesn't compensate based solely on whether someone can work. It compensates based on how a service-connected condition impairs a veteran's average ability to function in life and society. The fact that a veteran can hold a job doesn't mean their disability doesn't make daily life harder, more painful, or more isolating. If VA ratings were based solely on complete incapacity, we wouldn't see skyrocketing rates of veteran suicide, addiction, homelessness, or divorce - all of which are fueled not by fraud, but by the very real and too often dismissed cost of military service.

Lastly, let's not ignore what this article really reflects: veterans make an easy scapegoat for the elites of this country. We're a small percentage of the population. Many Americans are disconnected from the wars they authorized or ignored. It is politically and socially convenient to question the integrity of veterans rather than confront the true cost of 25 years of war. But the cost is real. And the obligation to those who bore it is not optional.

If your investigative team wants to find waste and fraud, start with the contractors who overbill, the generals who fail upward, the executives of squandered programs, or the politicians who wave flags while gutting oversight. But don't you dare turn on America's sons and daughters who carried the burden of service and now ask only for the care and compensation they were promised.

We veterans kept our end of the agreement and will continue to demand that those who asked us to defend our nation do the same. Honor The Contract.

Sincerely,
Carol Whitmore
VFW Commander-in-Chief

Read Washington Post article How some veterans exploit $193 billion VA program, due to lax controls.

VFW, Torch Drinks LLC Announce a First-of-its-Kind Alliance to Make THC Beverages Available to Eligible VFW Posts

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) announced today a new agreement with Torch Drinks LLC, the nation's leading hemp-derived THC beverage company based in Florida, to help advance programs serving veterans, service members and their families.

Torch beverages offer a smoke-free, alcohol-free, plant-based alternative - hemp-derived THC products crafted to promote relaxation, social ease and lifestyle balance. Under the licensing agreement, select VFW-branded Torch beverage products will be made available and proceeds will directly support VFW initiatives such as the National Veterans Service program, which provides no-cost assistance to veterans navigating the VA claims process, and Veterans & Military Support Programs, which deliver financial assistance to military families.

This new relationship between Torch Drinks LLC and the VFW brings a federally compliant and responsibly formulated, alternative to one of the most respected veteran service organizations in the United States. Torch beverages are crafted with hemp-derived Delta-9 THC using a patent-pending nano-emulsification process, offering another social option for consumers.

Torch products are carefully dosed and approved by a third-party, DEA accredited lab. The drinks are manufactured in cGMP facilities, ensuring transparency, safety, and consistency. With more than 3 million beverages sold safely nationwide, Torch Drinks LLC has established itself as a leader in both compliance and consumer trust.

State and local laws vary so the agreement will only take effect in jurisdictions where these products are permitted. Our teams will work closely with legal advisors to ensure full compliance across all markets.

"Torch Drinks is proud to work with the VFW to provide veterans with a safe, federally compliant, social alternative that is like none other," said Collin Kerrigan, co-founder of Torch Beverage Company. "Customers tell us Torch products help promote relaxation and revitalization, which is why we want to make it more widely available to people and veterans who may enjoy it. It is our mission to support the men and women who serve the United States in uniform while promoting ongoing research and discussions about innovative health solutions. It is truly an honor and a privilege to make this announcement."

"The VFW's top priority is ensuring that veterans and their families receive the care, benefits and support they have earned through their service," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "Working with Torch helps us raise funds for those vital programs while also allowing us to explore better ways to meet the needs of an evolving veterans' community."

The VFW recognizes the importance of providing veterans with alternatives to alcohol consumption, and through this relationship the VFW can provide members in states where Torch beverages are legal with alcohol alternatives that may better benefit veterans coping with service-connected injuries, chronic pain or the invisible wounds of war.

Availability to VFW Posts will begin later this year, alongside education programs and responsible-use initiatives tailored for veterans and their families.

-vfw-

About Torch Drinks LLC
Torch Drinks LLC is a leading innovator in hemp-derived Delta-9 products, creating unique, legal, and flavorful THC beverages that deliver quality and enjoyment. Committed to transparency, compliance, and customer satisfaction, Torch Drinks bring the power of hemp to a whole new audience and provide retailers confidence in fully compliant category entry. Federal laws relaxed in 2018- so can you. All products are derived from 100% legal USA hemp and contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 in accordance with the 2018 Farm Bill. Torch beverage products are not for use or sale to persons under the age of 21 depending on the laws of governing states and territories.

Sport Clips Haircuts Launches Annual 'Help A Hero' Campaign to Raise $1.35 Million for Veteran Scholarships

GEORGETOWN, Texas - Sport Clips Haircuts launched its 2025 "Help A Hero" scholarship campaign today in partnership with the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW). The campaign runs through Nov. 15 and aims to raise $1.35 million to fund the nation's largest scholarship initiative of its kind for military veterans and service members.

During the promotion, anyone can support the scholarship program by donating during a Sport Clips visit. On Nov. 11, Veterans Day, participating Sport Clips locations will offer free haircuts to veterans and active-duty service members in what it considers the "biggest haircut day of the year" honoring veterans. More than 80 percent of the funds raised each year come directly from generous clients, with the balance coming from Sport Clips' suppliers and product partners.

The VFW's "Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship" program was established in 2013 as a direct response to the growing need for veteran education funding that extends beyond the benefits of the GI Bill. Since its inception in 2013, the program has awarded more than 3,350 scholarships totaling more than $15 million, providing vital educational assistance to veterans as they transition from military service to civilian careers.

"As an Air Force veteran, I know firsthand the challenges that come with transitioning from military to civilian life," said Gordon Logan, founder and chairman of Sport Clips, and VFW Life member. "It is our privilege to stand beside those who have served our nation and, through Help A Hero Scholarships, ensure they have access to the resources needed to thrive beyond their military service."

"Sport Clips' annual Help A Hero campaign is a testament to the power of community, providing a life-changing opportunity for veterans transitioning to civilian life," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "The Help A Hero Scholarship is a crucial lifeline, empowering them to earn a degree or skilled trade without the burden of student loans, ultimately helping them secure a successful career. The VFW is excited to show our support and open the door to better futures for thousands of veterans and their families."

Help A Hero Scholarships provide up to $5,000 per semester to help cover tuition and fees. Veterans from all branches with a rank of E-5 and below are eligible, with funds sent directly to the educational institution of their choice. For more information or to apply for a scholarship, visit SportClips.com/Hero.

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About Sport Clips Haircuts
Sport Clips Haircuts is headquartered in Georgetown, Texas. It was established in 1993 and began franchising in 1995. The sports-themed haircutting franchise, which specializes in haircuts for men and boys, offers online check in for clients, and ranks #52 in the Entrepreneur "Franchise 500" for 2025 and was named a 2025 Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review. There are almost 1,800 Sport Clips stores open in the U.S. and Canada. Sport Clips is the "Official Haircutter" of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), offers veterans preferential pricing on haircuts and franchises, and was named a 2021 Top Franchise for Veterans by Entrepreneur. Sport Clips provides "Haircuts with Heart" through its annual Help A Hero fundraiser that has contributed $15 million to the VFW; national partnership with St. Baldrick's Foundation, the largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants; and other national and local philanthropic outreach. Sport Clips is a proud sponsor of NASCAR's Joe Gibbs Racing team, and partners with other NCAA and professional sports teams. To learn more about Sport Clips, visit sportclips.com.

VFW Calls on VA to Honor Supreme Court Ruling on GI Bill Benefits

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - With the fall semester underway, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. (VFW) is once again leading the charge to ensure all veterans receive the full educational benefits they have earned - especially in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark decision in Rudisill v. McDonough.

Last year, the Supreme Court sided with veterans, ruling that those eligible under both the Montgomery GI Bill and the Post-9/11 GI Bill are entitled to the full measure of benefits under both programs, up to the 48-month cap. The decision rejected a long-standing Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) policy that forced veterans to forfeit one set of benefits if their service was continuous, rather than interrupted by a break.

Despite the Court's clear decision, VA issued guidance late last year through its "2024 Education Directives," that continues to deny or limit access to earned benefits. The new rules wrongly impose a "break in service" requirement, block the transfer of benefits to dependents in certain cases, refuse to extend deadlines for dependent usage, and offer no retroactive relief to veterans and families harmed by prior unlawful policies.

"These new rules directly contradict the Supreme Court's decision on what veterans have earned through honorable service," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "We will not stand by while bureaucrats strip away what the Court - and Congress - have already promised. Veterans and their families have planned their futures around these benefits, which is why VA must honor this contract."

To challenge these unlawful directives, the VFW has joined a new lawsuit before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, alongside the Commonwealth of Virginia, and individual veterans, including the original petitioner, James Rudisill. The lawsuit seeks to strike down VA's directives by reinforcing the Supreme Court's decision, ensuring veterans and their dependents receive access to all education benefits they are rightfully owed.

In its initial response to the lawsuit, VA sought to remove VFW as a petitioner, suggesting that the VFW did not have veterans affected by the decision. Though the VFW has already secured affidavits from affected members to refute this motion, the organization is asking all VFW members affected by VA's erroneous interpretation of the Rudisill decision to come forward and submit their stories to legal@vfw.org.

"If you or your family were counting on these education benefits this fall and suddenly found yourself left out, we want to hear from you," said Whitmore. "Your story is important, and it could help make sure no veteran is left behind."

To read the official court petition, click here.

The VFW - Still Leading, Still Advancing, Still Serving

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Today, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proudly commemorates VFW Day, marking 126 years of unwavering service to America's veterans, service members, their families and communities. Established on Sept. 29, 1899, the VFW has stood as the nation's most established major war veterans' service organization, built upon the dedication of veterans who understood the importance of advocacy, camaraderie and support long after leaving the battlefield.

What began with a small group of Spanish-American War and Philippine Insurrection veterans has grown into a powerful network of more than 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary. Together, they remain steadfast in their mission to foster community, preserve patriotism and ensure every veteran receives the care, benefits and recognition they have earned.

"For 126 years, the VFW has been a voice for veterans and a force for good in communities across America," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "From advocating for quality health care and stronger benefits to offering direct support through our programs and services, the VFW continues to live out its founding promise: to honor and serve those who have served."

Over the decades, the VFW has made historic contributions to veterans' legislation, including the creation of the Veterans Administration, the GI Bill and expanded VA health care benefits. Today, the organization remains committed to ensuring veterans transition successfully into civilian life, receive timely access to VA care, and are never left behind.

As the VFW celebrates this milestone, Posts and auxiliaries across the country are honoring VFW Day with ceremonies, open houses and community service projects - reminding all Americans of the enduring sacrifice and resilience of those who served in uniform.

"The VFW is more than just an organization - it's a family bound together by service, sacrifice and a commitment to one another," said Whitmore. "On this VFW Day, we celebrate our legacy, but more importantly, we reaffirm our mission to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with every generation of veterans for the next 126 years and beyond."

For more information about the Veterans of Foreign Wars and how you can get involved, visit vfw.org.

VFW Pledges It Won't Rest Until They're All Accounted For

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Sept. 19, National POW/MIA Recognition Day, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) reaffirms its sacred commitment to those who never returned home. For the VFW, the third Friday in September serves as a powerful reminder of the more than 142,000 former American prisoners of war and less than 81,000 service members who remain missing and unaccounted for, and it reinforces our unwavering pledge to their families and to the nation: We will not rest until we have the fullest possible accounting for every single service member.

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) reports that just under 81,000 Americans are still unaccounted for from World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War, the Vietnam War and other conflicts. Behind every one of those numbers is a life, a story and a family that has endured decades of uncertainty and questions that couldn't be answered. Our nation owes them the ensuring promise that their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

As a proud and committed supporter of the DPAA, the VFW will continue to support their tireless efforts to conduct recovery missions, forensic identifications and historical research across the globe. Our shared goal to bring a measure of peace and closure to the families is a mission that transcends time and will be passed down through every generation of veterans.

Today, and every day, the VFW solemnly pledges to never forget America's POWs and MIAs.

Happy 78th Birthday to the United States Air Force

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Sept. 18, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) will proudly celebrate the 78th birthday of the United States Air Force. The VFW recognizes the generations of Airmen who have bravely answered the call to serve, shaping a legacy of air and space superiority that has kept America safe.

Since its establishment as a separate branch in 1947, the brave men and women of the Air Force have been at the forefront of aviation and space innovation, playing an indispensable role in the defense of our nation and the protection of global freedoms.

For nearly eight decades, Airmen have demonstrated unwavering professionalism, skill and courage across every theater of conflict and in every mission. They have not only dominated the skies but also provided critical intelligence, logistical support and rapid global mobility that are essential to the success of all U.S. military operations.

As the Air Force continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of technology and strategy, its mission remains as vital as ever. The VFW stands with our airmen, past and present, honoring their dedication to safeguarding our nation's interests and maintaining peace. The VFW and its more than 1.4 million members are forever grateful for their service and sacrifice. Happy 78th birthday to the "Big Blue!"

VFW Honors National Hispanic Heritage Month

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to honor the contributions of our nation's Hispanic service members and veterans from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 - during National Hispanic Heritage Month. Veterans of Hispanic heritage have had a profound impact on our military, and the VFW recognizes their unwavering dedication to service, patriotism and the preservation of our freedoms.

For generations, Hispanic Americans have answered our nation's call to duty, serving with distinction across every branch of the armed forces and in every major conflict. Today, veterans of Hispanic heritage represent 8% of the veteran population, a figure that has grown by 25% in the last decade. Their courage and sacrifices have been essential to America's security and have enriched our military with a deep-seated commitment to family, community and country.

From the battlefields of the Revolutionary War to the raging seas of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans to the skies over Europe, the Middle East and all four corners of the globe, Hispanic American service members have demonstrated exemplary valor, earning countless medals and honors, including the Medal of Honor.

Their contributions extend far beyond the battlefield, as they continue to strengthen our communities and inspire future generations. Their stories are a vital part of the American story, a true testament showcasing that heroism knows no single language or background.

This month, the VFW stands in solidarity with our nation's service members and veterans of Hispanic heritage and their families, honoring and saluting their invaluable role in defending our nation's ideals and securing our future.

The VFW Pauses to Reflect This Patriot Day

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -This Sept. 11, in observance of Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) solemnly pauses to reflect and honor the lives of the nearly 3,000 lost in the tragic events that day 24 years ago which irrevocably changed not only our nation, but the entire world.

While the senseless attacks on America were a moment of immense and unimaginable tragedy, they became a powerful testament to the unwavering and unbeatable spirit of the American people. In terrorism's wake, a united nation stood together, rallying to support and lift each other up. Flags were raised in homes across our great nation, communities rushed to support first responders and emergency personnel, and a sense of determination surpassed our differences.

This day is not only a day of remembrance but a day of purpose. The VFW understands service and sacrifice, and we encourage all Americans to come together this Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance to honor the memory of those who were lost on 9/11 by creating and building a world they would be proud of. Americans owe it to the families and loved ones of the nearly 3,000 killed that day to honor them by remembering we are a stronger nation when we stand united. May we all channel the resilience and unity we showed 24 years ago and pledge to being a force for good.

VFW Awards More Than $740,000 in Help A Hero Scholarships

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to announce 156 student veterans were selected to receive VFW's "Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarships" for the 2025 fall semester. The student veterans will collectively receive more than $740,000 in scholarships, helping to narrow the gap left by exhausting GI Bill benefits and ultimately lessen their student loan burden. See the full list of recipients.

Established more than a decade ago, the Help A Hero Scholarship was established alongside Sport Clips Haircuts to help ease the financial burden service members and veterans face while working to achieve their post-secondary educational goals.

"Student veterans have so much to offer future employers, having confronted adversity and challenges that many can't even imagine, and they've come out the other side stronger," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "Together with our friends at Sport Clips, we're honored to help ensure our nation's heroes transition home with the tools they need to succeed without the heavy burden of student loan debt."

"The Help A Hero Scholarship is truly life-changing for so many recipients and their families, ensuring they can complete their education without having to worry about the financial strain that often comes with their educational pursuits," said Gordon Logan, Air Force veteran, VFW Life member, and founder and chairman of Sport Clips. "We are incredibly proud to have crossed the $15 million mark this year and look forward to our continued partnership with the VFW Foundation to show our gratitude for those who serve our country through this scholarship program."

To date, the Help A Hero Scholarship program has awarded more than $15.3 million in scholarships to more than 3,350 student veterans. The Help A Hero Scholarship is funded solely through donations from generous Sport Clips team members, clients, individual supporters and corporate sponsors. Applications for the spring 2026 semester are currently being accepted. To find out more on the Help A Hero scholarship or to apply, visit vfw.org/Scholarship.

VFW Elects Carol Whitmore as New National Commander

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Carol Whitmore of Des Moines, Iowa, was elected today as the new national commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), a congressionally chartered veterans service organization comprised of approximately 1 million eligible combat veterans and military service members from all six branches of the armed forces.

"Standing here today, surrounded by such incredible people - fellow veterans, families and friends - I am filled with a deep sense of pride and humility," said Whitmore during her acceptance speech. "This is not just a recognition of me, but of all the men and women who have served in our armed forces."

Whitmore's election as the VFW's 117th commander-in-chief occurred at the conclusion of the organization's 126th National Convention in Columbus, Ohio. More than 10,000 members of the VFW and its Auxiliary converged on the city to conduct the business of the organization, recognize individuals and organizations for excellence and to elect new leadership for the 2025 - 2026 year.

Whitmore is the first woman elected to lead the more than 125-year-old organization. She delivered remarks to those attending in person at the Greater Columbus Convention Center and watching via livestreaming video.

"When I think back on my journey, I am sure it was just like many others - my reality is not necessarily the VFW reality," said Whitmore. "But I was driven by a sense of duty, a desire to serve something greater than myself. And little did I know that decision would shape me in ways I could never have imagined."

Enlisting in the Women's Army Corps in 1977, Carol's 36-year military career was marked by significant milestones, from integrating with men into the regular Army to becoming an Army nurse and later serving as a first sergeant for her unit while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. It was there that she earned her VFW eligibility. In recognition of her service, she received the Legion of Merit Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal (six), Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (two), National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Non-Commissioned Professional Development Ribbon (three), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon (three), Armed Forces Reserve Medal with "M" device and the Combat Action Badge.

"As we look to the future, I believe that the strength of our veteran community is our greatest asset. We have so much to offer," said Whitmore. "We have lived through adversity, we have faced challenges that many can't even imagine and we've come out on the other side stronger. It's because of that strength that we are still serving our communities and our nation."

She joined the VFW in 2012 at Post 9127 in Des Moines, Iowa, where she maintains her Gold Legacy Life membership. She has served in elected and appointed positions at the Post, District and Department levels, culminating with her election as the VFW Department of Iowa Commander from 2018 to 2019, in which she achieved All-American status. On the national level, she served on the Legislative Committee, the General Resolutions Committee and on the National Council of Administration from 2019 to 2023. In 2022, she was elected as designee for National VFW Commander-in-Chief for the year 2025, becoming the first woman and first Iowan to hold the position. She is also a life member of the Military Order of the Cootie, the VFW National Home, and the American Legion and its Auxiliary.

During the speech, Whitmore emphasized legislative advocacy as a priority for her year, with a focus on fighting to get Congress to grant concurrent receipt for select combat-injured veterans through the Major Richard Star Act.

"Through advocacy, our legislative efforts need to be resolute," said Whitmore. "The [Major] Richard Star Act must pass this year. This effort was started in 2004, and the bill has repeatedly and shamelessly been voted down. Let's get this done already. Honor the Contract!"

Whitmore also spoke passionately about the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) mission and the key diplomatic role the VFW played in Southeast Asia during the early 1990s.

"More than 30 years ago, it was VFW Vietnam War veterans who led the mission back to the country that cost them so much to extend a hand of peace to their former adversaries," said Whitmore. "This tremendously brave effort opened U.S. relations with Vietnam and access to the country so DPAA could find and bring home our comrades who were missing in action."

In addition to Whitmore, other national officers elected were Cory Geisler, an Iraq War veteran from the Department of Wisconsin, as senior vice commander-in-chief, and Glenn Umberger Jr., from the Department of Pennsylvania, who is also a veteran from Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, as junior vice commander-in-chief. The final day of the convention also saw Adjutant General Dan West and Quartermaster General Marc Garduno reassume their posts.

"I may be the first veteran to have been elected VFW commander-in-chief while wearing a dress ... the first female veteran, but I will not be the last," said Whitmore. "And as I have said while campaigning, I am your comrade by mud, by blood, by dust, by dirt, by sand, by land, by sea, by air ... I am a veteran first."

Carol, a retired nurse, attended the University of Northern Iowa and Hawkeye Community College. She and her husband, Brad, reside in Des Moines, Iowa.

Watch or read Whitmore's acceptance speech.

VFW Presents Acclaimed John A. Biedrzycki Award

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) has selected Army Desert Storm Veteran Belinda Boldoe as its 2024-2025 John A. Biedrzycki Accredited Service Representative of the Year. Awarded annually, the Biedrzycki Award is presented to a VFW Accredited Service Officer who has demonstrated exceptional achievements in support of the VFW's veterans' service mission and related programs.

"Service to veterans is as ingrained in the VFW as the word veteran," said VFW National Commander Al Lipphardt. "Every day, our global cadre of accredited representatives works tirelessly to ensure our government Honors the Contract and this award, which Belinda Boldoe so rightfully deserves, exemplifies and honors the very best of the best."

Boldoe, who serves as both the Georgia Department of Veterans Service Appeals Officer and VFW Department of Georgia Service Officer among other roles, assisted more than 2,500 veterans and family members and facilitated the recovery of more than $800,000 in veterans benefits in 2024. A resident of Stone Mountain, Georgia, she is highly regarded by her colleagues, clients and comrades for her professionalism, technical expertise and genuine, honest and teamwork-oriented nature.

VFW Accredited Service Officers are legally recognized and authorized by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to prepare, present and prosecute VA benefits claims. Importantly, VA-accredited representatives never charge for assistance with VA disability compensation claims. In 2024 alone, the VFW's Accredited Service Officer network has secured more than $14.6 billion in compensation and pension on behalf of veterans and eligible family members, and every dollar has gone to beneficiaries.

"It is always an honor to recognize a professionally trained, VFW Accredited Service Officer who exemplifies our values in every action she takes on behalf of the veterans, family members and survivors we represent," said VFW National Veterans Service Director Mike Figlioli. "Belinda consistently delivers results not only for the Georgia Department of Veterans Service, but for the entire VFW. It is only fitting that we take the time to recognize her achievements and dedication."

Originally from Washington, D.C., Boldoe served in the United States Army for more than 11 years as a signal communication officer, earning her VFW eligibility during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Throughout her Army career, she held several critical positions including company commander, theater communication manager during Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and project manager for testing and procuring new Signal Corps equipment.

"It is truly an honor to be selected as the John A. Biedrzycki Accredited Service Representative of the Year for 2024-2025," said Boldoe. "This is not a job for me; this is my heavenly assignment from my Lord and Savior to take care of his people."

Boldoe maintains her Bronze Legacy Life membership at Henry County GA VFW Post 12180 in Stockbridge, Georgia, where she serves as the Post quartermaster. She has two children - one of whom she is proud to call a fellow VFW member.

VFW's Uniting to Combat Hunger Evolves to 'Uniting for Veterans'

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Humana announced today the successful Uniting to Combat Hunger & Homelessness (UTCH) program will officially be known as the 'Uniting for Veterans' program moving forward. This change reflects the programs' ever-expanding scope and the VFW and Humana's united commitment to addressing the diverse and evolving needs of the military and veteran communities.

In addition to announcing the program's name change, leaders highlighted the support it has provided over the last year. UTCH raised more than 800,000 meals and 325 nights of housing for homeless veterans, shared Cara Brown, Director of Key Relationships for Humana's MarketPoint, and Al Lipphardt, VFW National Commander, during the 126th VFW National Convention Joint Opening Session today.

The newly named Uniting for Veterans program will offer greater flexibility in providing comprehensive assistance beyond its initial focus on food insecurity and housing. This includes a broader array of support tailored to help increase its VFW Posts and Auxiliaries' impact in their local veteran communities.

"Our military and veteran communities are incredibly diverse, and their needs are constantly changing. While hunger and homelessness remain critical issues, we recognize the necessity to adapt our program to offer additional support as necessary," said VFW National Commander Al Lipphardt. "The Uniting for Veterans name change better suits our ever-expanding mission and dedication to provide responsive and comprehensive assistance through our Posts and Auxiliaries that truly adapts with the needs of our veterans and their families."

Humana, the VFW's long-standing ally in this vital initiative since UTCH's inception in 2018, expressed enthusiasm for the program's evolution.

"At Humana, we are proud to stand with the VFW in this important transition. The Uniting for Veterans program will allow us to collectively address a wider spectrum of needs and help improve quality of life for America's military and veteran families," Brown said. "This enhanced flexibility ensures our combined efforts continue to make a profound, positive impact on the lives of those who have served and their loved ones."

The VFW encourages all members and the public to learn more about the expanded Uniting for Veterans program and to support its vital mission at vfw.org/UnitingforVeterans.

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About Humana
Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) is committed to putting health first - for our teammates, our customers, and our company. Through our Humana insurance services, and our CenterWell health care services, we strive to make it easier for the millions of people we serve to achieve their best health - delivering the care and service they need, when they need it. These efforts are leading to a better quality of life for people with Medicare, Medicaid, families, individuals, military service personnel, and communities at large. Learn more about what we offer at Humana.com and CenterWell.com.

VFW Action Alert: Keep VFW Priorities in the NDAA

While members of Congress are home for the August recess, their staff remain in Washington, D.C., tracking what constituents are saying and preparing for the work ahead. Now is the time to speak up.

Two critical VFW priorities must stay in this year's National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (NDAA):

Major Richard Star Act (Senate amendment)

Ends the unjust offset that prevents combat-injured, medically retired veterans from receiving both military retirement pay and VA disability compensation. Veterans who earned both deserve both.
TAP Promotion Act (part of the House base text)

Improves the Transition Assistance Program by giving service members direct access to accredited VA claims assistance to receive their benefits at the earliest possible moment.

When Congress returns in September, negotiations will begin on the NDAA. These VFW priorities will not make it without strong support, and that starts with you.

Take Action: Send a message to your senators and representative urging them to support the Major Richard Star Act amendment in the Senate NDAA and fight to keep both the Major Richard Star Act and the TAP Promotion Act in the final version of the NDAA.

VFW Comes Home for its 126th National Convention

COLUMBUS, Ohio - More than 125 years after their first meeting in Ohio's capital, the nation's largest and most established combat veterans organization, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) - along with its Auxiliary - returns to its birthplace for the 126th VFW National Convention beginning this Saturday through Aug. 13 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio.

"Hosting our convention in Columbus is more than a homecoming - it's a celebration of how far we've come and where we're headed," said VFW National Commander Al Lipphardt. "As we gather in the city where the VFW was founded, we reaffirm our purpose, renew our energyand look ahead to shaping the future of advocacy and support for every generation of veterans."

On Sept. 29, 1899, 13 Spanish-American War veterans gathered in a small tailor shop on East Main Street in downtown Columbus to discuss how they could assist their fellow veterans and the dependents of their fallen comrades. Originally founded as the American Veterans of Foreign Service, the organization united with other veteran groups from the Philippine Insurrection and Boxer Rebellion, officially becoming the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States on Aug. 1, 1914.

Distinguished speakers during the convention will include Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther; Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose; Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins; Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Affairs Stephen Simmons; Taiwanese Veterans Affairs Council Deputy Minister Wu, Chih-Yang; Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) Director Kelly McKeague; United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration Director Major General Edward J. Chrystal, Jr.; Twisted X CEO Prasad Reddy; USAA CEO Juan Andrade; Student Veterans of America National President & CEO Jared Lyon; Military Women's Memorial President Phyllis Wilson; Humana National Director of Key Relationships Cara Brown; Oracle Health Senior Vice President Patrick Sargent; and Arrow International Director of Veteran and Fraternal Relations Col. Joe Morris, USMC (Ret.).

New for this year's convention is an awards banquet on Monday night, featuring special guests Medal of Honor recipient James McCloughan and U.S. Representative Derrick Van Orden.

Also new is the Parade Deck Experienceat the Exhibit Hall stage on Saturday and Sunday. The experience will feature a full schedule of 30-minute on-stage presentations, fireside chats, and interviews from military influencers, sponsors, exhibitors, VFW officers and directors.Parade Deck, an online streaming platform, will stream all the presentations from the weekend, as well as the 3rd annual VFW Cornhole Tournament.

"Over the past year, the VFW has continued to deliver real results for our nation's veterans - from securing critical legislative victories and expanding access to VA care, to assisting tens of thousands of veterans and families with earned benefits," said Lipphardt. "These accomplishments reflect the strength of our mission and the dedication of every VFW member. We are still serving proudly and making an incredible post-military impact in communities nationwide."

The convention is expected to generate $14.2 million in revenue for Columbus.

During the business sessions of the convention, delegates will elect and install the national-level chair officers, to include a new VFW national commander, Carol Whitmore of Des Moines, Iowa, the first woman to be elected to the position, as well as recognize prominent individuals and organizations for their support of the veteran and military communities.

Receiving VFW national awards on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are:

VFW Commander-in-Chief's Gold Medal of Merit

Brenda Bryant, 2024 - 2025 National President of the VFW Auxiliary
Sean Kingsbury, Head of Agent Marketing, State Farm
Tim Jensen, Chief Brand Officer and Co-owner, Grunt Style; President, Grunt Style Foundation
Jeff Carroll, 2024 - 2025 VFW National Chief of Staff
Victor Letourneaut, 2024 - 2025 VFW National Budget & Finance Chairman
Greg Stafford, 2024 - 2025 VFW National Inspector General
Carol Lipphardt, spouse of Al Lipphardt, 2024 - 2025 VFW Commander-in-Chief

VFWDistinguished Service Medal

Duane Sarmiento, VFW Past Commander-in-Chief (2023 - 2024)

VFW Distinguished Service Award

Maj. Samantha Cahill (U.S. Army), VFW Post 5202 Commander, Department of North Carolina

*Accepting via Zoom while deployed to Jordan

VFW Distinguished Citizenship Award

Jon Yuspa, founder and CEO, Honor Flight Nevada

VFW Distinguished Educational Award

Jake Rademacher, award-winning filmmaker and producer, Brothers After War

VFW Distinguished Historical Award

William Duffy, for more than 40 years of preserving the military history in New Jersey

VFW Distinguished Fraternal Award

Richard Jones, for Hurricane Helene relief efforts in western North Carolina

VFW John A. Biedrzycki AccreditedService Representative of theYear Award

Belinda Boldoe,DepartmentServiceOfficer, VFW Department of Georgia

VFW Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award

Tim Smiddy, Staunton Elementary School, Staunton, Illinois
Christie Wingo, Colorado Springs Christian School, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nicole Petrosillo, West Milford Township High School, West Milford, New Jersey

VFW Auxiliary Better World Award

Jacob Schick, CEO, One Tribe Foundation

The VFW National Convention will livestream its Aug. 11 - 13 sessions at VFW.org/Convention, beginning with the Joint Memorial Service Sunday, Aug. 10 at 8:30 a.m. EST. A full schedule of events can be accessed using the "VFW Events" app, available for download at both the Apple App and Google Play stores.

For the full schedule of presentations from the Parade Deck Experience and where to watch, visit their special page for the 126th VFW National Convention here.

Only registered and credentialed media from bona fide news organizations will be approved to cover convention activities. Click here to pre-register for media credentials.

In addition to business sessions,workshopsand committee meetings, a free, four-day walk-in VA claims clinic and health fair are accessible to all veterans, service members and their families registered for the conference.

The 126th National Convention is proudly sponsored in part by Arrow International,Humana,USAAand Wounded Warrior Project.

VFW Leverages New Relationships to Expand Combat Tested Gaming

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to announce a series of groundbreaking relationships aimed at expanding its Combat Tested Gaming (CTG) league, furthering the available mental wellness resources and strategic tech relationships with gaming and VR industry leaders like Healium, Omnic.AI, August Interactive, Alexander PCs and The Realms of Asgard - reinforcing the VFW's commitment to supporting veteran mental wellness and community engagement through innovative technology and gaming.

Since its launch in 2023, the VFW's CTG league has cultivated a thriving and supportive community. It offers not just organized gameplay, but also a competitive and welcoming Discord, providing a space among those who have served and are seeking camaraderie through shared interests. These collaborations mark a significant step forward in the VFW's mission to provide veterans with modern tools and platforms that foster connection, healing and purpose.

"Leveraging these new relationships helps ensure Combat Tested Gaming can continue to foster a strong, welcoming virtual community that meets veterans where they are," said VFW National Commander Al Lipphardt. "This expansion represents a powerful convergence of technology, community and purpose, and by embracing innovation and supporting veteran-owned businesses, we're creating new pathways for healing, connection and growth for our members."

Together with Healium, VFW members will gain access to immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences designed to reduce stress and promote mental wellness. Healium's VR suite will be showcased at the 126th VFW National Convention, Aug. 9-13 in Columbus, Ohio, and made available at VFW Headquarters in Kansas City. Local VFW Posts will be encouraged to integrate Healium's tools into their wellness programming, offering members a cutting-edge resource for managing anxiety and improving emotional resilience.

"It's hard to heal what you can't see," said Sarah Hill, CEO of Healium. "That's why we're honored to team up with VFWs across the country - so more veterans can visualize their feelings and learn to self-regulate their mental well-being. Healium gives users a window into their brainwaves and heart rate, helping them build resilience through immersive, biofeedback-powered experiences."

The VFW's collaboration with Omnic.AI introduces artificial intelligence-driven tools to enhance the veteran gaming experience. Omnic.AI's technology continuously evaluates the real-time gameplay of competitors and provides personalized feedback to help improve their performance in future matches, making gameplay ultimately more enjoyable and thus benefiting the gamers' mental health.

Shubber Ali, CEO of Omnic.AI, is enthusiastic about this relationship. "As a veteran-founded company, we believe it is our responsibility to support the work of the VFW and CTG, and it is a privilege for us to be able to be part of these competitive gaming events. By giving players the ability to continuously improve and learn, we believe Omnic will improve the overall gaming experience and foster further teamwork, collaboration and ultimately enjoyment amongst the veteran gaming community. The job of Omnic's AI coach is to help players to learn and improve but is much friendlier than my drill sergeant ever was."

In working with August Interactive, the VFW will promote participation in the Gamers and Guardians initiative and the Military Esports League (MEL). These programs offer veterans opportunities to connect through competitive gaming, livestream events and community engagement. VFW members will be featured in weekly streams and tournaments, fostering camaraderie and purpose through shared digital experiences.

Kristin Wood, CEO of August Interactive, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: "We're deeply honored to work with the VFW to bring veterans the opportunity to engage in gaming and esports. At August Interactive, we believe gaming is not only a source of entertainment but also a way to foster community, teamwork and support for those who have served."

The VFW is also proud to team up with Alexander PCs, a veteran-owned company specializing in high-performance gaming and productivity computers. This collaboration ensures VFW members have access to reliable, custom-built systems designed for gaming, streaming and professional use - all backed by lifetime warranty and support. Together, we're empowering veterans with the tools they need to succeed in both virtual and real-world environments.

In a powerful step forward to build connection, healing and purpose, the Combat Tested Gaming's collaboration with The Realms of Asgard (TROA), a mythologically inspired digital universe dedicated to creating safe, inclusive communities for those who need it most, aligns the VFW with a platform that is a mission-driven movement committed to ending the stigma surrounding mental health.

"The Realms of Asgard was built to be more than just a world to play in - it's a world where warriors of all kinds can find peace, purpose and people who truly understand," said Icey, founder of TROA. "By joining forces with the VFW and Combat Tested Gaming, we're reinforcing our promise to create a haven for veterans and players alike - where mental health isn't hidden, it's honored, and stories are shared without fear."

This comprehensive expansion underscores the VFW's commitment to providing meaningful engagement and vital resources to military and veteran gamers. To learn more about Combat Tested Gaming or sign up for any of the new league, VR and gameplay opportunities, visit vfw.org/Gaming.

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About August Interactive: August Interactive is an AI gaming and esports company focused on creating innovative platforms and experiences that bring people together. Through its cutting-edge technology and passion for gaming, August Interactive is redefining the role of gaming in fostering community and connection.

About Healium: Healium transforms biometric data from any wearable-like EEG or heart rate-into immersive, emotionally responsive stories to reduce anxiety or boost mood in just 4 minutes. Backed by 9 peer-reviewed journals, Healium biofeedback experiences are already generating real impact at VA Hospitals, with the US military, and some of the world's top health and wellness brands. tryhealium.com

Applications Open for 2025-2026 VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Student Veterans of America (SVA) are now accepting applications from student veterans interested in participating in the upcoming 2025-2026 VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship program. Now in its 12th year, the fellowship will bring select student veterans - who must be VFW members - to Washington, D.C., late February to early March to meet face-to-face with their members of Congress and senior policymakers.

Student veterans interested in applying must complete an application package that includes a 3-5 page essay and a video outlining program interest. The submission should consist of a discussion of why advocacy is important to the veteran community.

Past fellows have earned academic credit for their experience, found internships, accepted additional academic opportunities, and landed full-time employment because of their fellowship experience. Several fellows have even had their research incorporated into laws, which has a lasting impact on veterans, service members, and their families.

VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship opportunities are open to all currently enrolled student veterans. VFW eligibility criteria can be found here. Selected fellows will attend and participate in SVA's Leadership Institute from Oct 16 - 18, 2025, followed by the 18th Annual SVA National Conference in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Jan. 8 - 10, 2026. They will then be flown to Washington, D.C., to ensure the veterans' message is delivered to Capitol Hill alongside 500 fellow advocates as part of the VFW Legislative Conference, February 28 - March 5, 2026.

All applications must be submitted by midnight on Sept. 12, 2025. For full details about the VFW-SVA fellowship and to apply, visit VFW.org/StudentFellowship or contact Joe Grassi, VFW, at JGrassi@vfw.org, or Tammy Barlet, SVA, at tammy.barlet@studentveterans.org.

The VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship is another example of the strong collaboration between VFW and SVA that resulted from a memorandum of understanding signed by the two organizations at the SVA National Conference in January 2013.

VFW Celebrates the Coast Guard's 235th Birthday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Aug. 4, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) joins with our grateful nation in celebrating the 235th birthday of the United States Coast Guard. Since its establishment in 1790, originally as the Revenue Cutter Service, this vital branch has continuously protected U.S. interests and saved countless lives, evolving into the multifaceted force it is today.

Now operating under the Department of Homeland Security, today's Coast Guard excels in its three broad roles: maritime security, maritime stewardship and maritime safety. They vigilantly protect and defend over 100,000 miles of U.S. coastline and inland waterways, while safeguarding an Exclusive Economic Zone of 4.5 million square miles - the largest in the world, spanning nine time zones from the Arctic Circle to south of the equator, and across from Puerto Rico to Guam.

Their commitment to maritime security is evident and day in and day out, the U.S. Coast Guard is engaged in lifesaving and nation-protecting missions throughout our country and around the world.

Please join the 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary in saying happy 235th birthday and "thank you" to Coast Guardsmen both past and present - members of the U.S. Armed Forces with the biggest area of responsibility.

It should be noted that VFW Adjutant General Dan West is appreciative of the at-sea extraction Coast Guardsmen gave him and his team back in 1993.

Semper Paratus - Always Ready.

President Signs Law to Prevent Veteran Foreclosure

WASHINGTON - Yesterday President Donald Trump signed the VA Home Loan Protection Act (H.R. 1815) into law, alongside the bill's author and VFW Life member, Rep. Derrick Van Orden (WI-3) and House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chairman Mike Bost (IL-12).

"Legislative advocacy is one of the core missions of the VFW and a mission that I take seriously, so I thank Mr. Van Orden for his foresight in addressing veteran foreclosures, Congress for unanimously advancing the bill, and President Trump for quickly signing this into law," said VFW Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt. "When I speak to veterans, I often say that when legislators support us, we will find the tallest hill we can and sing their praises for helping veterans. This is why I call on all VFW members to activate our Action Corps once again and say 'thank you' to your legislators who advanced Mr. Van Orden's critical legislation without opposition."

Today the VFW sent an Action Corps alert to its global network of advocates to thank every member of Congress for displaying bipartisan courage to advance Van Orden's bill to the president's desk. Click here to join in on the VFW's Action Alert and say "thank you" to your legislators for protecting veterans' homes.

VFW Legislative Director Kristina Keenan, who advocated for the Senate to quickly advance the bill, said that the law will prevent thousands of veterans from foreclosure on their homes by providing a partial claim option where VA can cover delinquent payments and work with lenders to structure appropriate repayments. Additionally, it will strengthen VA's homelessness prevention efforts through the Grant and Per Diem Program.

Van Orden proposed his partial claims bill in March as a way to replace the stop-gap Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase, or VASP, program, providing a foreclosure-mitigation option that closely mirrors options available to borrowers who utilize Federal Housing Administration loans. Van Orden is a Life member of Thomas Rooney VFW Post 1530 in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and was honored with the VFW's 2025 Congressional Award in March.

Veterans who are having trouble making mortgage payments on their VA-backed home loans should contact a VA loan technician to explore options at 877.827.3702.

VFW Commemorates the Korean Armistice Agreement

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On July 27, the 72nd anniversary of the Korean Armistice Agreement, the Veterans of the Foreign Wars (VFW) pauses to solemnly commemorate this pivotal moment, paying tribute to the immense sacrifices made by the brave men and women who fought and died in what is often tragically referred to as the "Forgotten War."

On July 27, 1953, U.S., North Korean and Chinese military commanders, signed the Korean Armistice Agreement, bringing the Korean War to a close. The ceasefire came after two years of negotiations, the longest negotiated armistice in history, but did not end the hostilities completely. A total of 36,576 Americans lost their lives and more than 92,000 were wounded in action during the course of the bloody three-year war.

The Korean War, though overshadowed by other conflicts, was a brutal and costly struggle. However, for the servicemen and women that lived through it, for the Gold Star families that lost their loved ones there and for those that keep the candle lit for the more than 7,400 POW/MIAs still unaccounted for, the Korean War is still fresh in their minds. Today less than 800,000 Korean War veterans are still living. This anniversary is a poignant reminder to recognize and honor their enduring courage, resilience and unwavering commitment to defending freedom.

To the millions of U.S. military personnel who served in the Korean War theater of operations, and the millions that have served there since, the more than 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary join a grateful nation in remembering your service and honoring your sacrifice in defense of generations of people living on freedom's frontier.

VFW Teams Up with Aspen Dental to Improve Access to Care for Veterans and Their Families

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) announced a new relationship with Aspen Dental^® to improve access to dental care for veterans and their families. Through this collaboration, VFW members will receive exclusive discounts on the Aspen Dental Savings Plan membership, and Aspen Dental will provide support to the VFW Foundation to further expand veteran health care initiatives.

VFW members and their eligible immediate family members can access the discounted savings plan for $29 per year - a 41% savings from the regular $49 annual fee. Benefits include free exams and X-rays plus up to 30% savings on dental services with no deductibles, claims filing or waiting periods.

"This relationship directly addresses a gap in healthcare access that affects many in our veteran community. Through our collaboration with Aspen Dental, we're helping ensure those who served have access to quality, affordable dental care," said VFW Adjutant General Dan West.

"Veterans often face unique barriers to accessing care," said Dr. Arwinder Judge, chief clinical officer at Aspen Dental. "This collaboration with the VFW builds on our longstanding commitment to those who have served, helping to ensure that veterans and their families can access quality, affordable care when and where they need it."

This relationship makes Aspen Dental the VFW's official dental provider, offering nationwide access to care. With more than 1,100 locations nationwide - many in underserved areas - Aspen Dental makes it easy for veterans to find affordable, quality care close to home. Aspen Dental practices serve more than 35,000 patients each day and eight million annually, offering accessible, high-quality care to communities across the country. With state-of-the-art technology and on-site labs at many locations, Aspen Dental offices help ensure a fast, comfortable experience for patients.

VFW members can learn more at https://www.aspendental.com/dental-savings-plan/vfw-partnership/ or call 877.808.2776.

Aspen Dental has supported veterans for more than 10 years through its Healthy Mouth Movement, donating over $36 million in dental care to more than 33,000 veterans and individuals in need through programs including Aspen Dental Day of Service and Smile for Your Service.

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About Aspen Dental: Aspen Dental® was founded in 1998 with a simple goal in mind: to break down the barriers that doctors and patients face when it comes to dental care. Today, more than 25 years later, with a network of 1,100+ Aspen Dental locations nationwide, the mission of the company remains the same - to bring better care to more people. Aspen Dental is the largest group of branded dental offices in the world. For more information, visit aspendental.com, and follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn.

VFW and Grunt Style Foundation Deliver Over 100 Tons of Relief to Texas Flood Victims

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the Grunt Style Foundation have joined forces in an extraordinary partnership, delivering over 100 tons of critical relief to flood-ravaged communities across Central Texas. From Kerrville to Hunt, Comfort to San Saba, and Marble Falls to San Angelo, veterans once again led from the front - this time, not in combat, but in compassion.

When historic flooding struck the region, it was veterans who activated the engagement. Mobilizing VFW Posts in each affected area, the coalition launched a coordinated effort to move massive quantities of food, water, clothing, bedding, and search-and-rescue essentials to local communities who had lost everything.

"This was veterans doing what they do best - rallying to the mission and getting the job done," said Tim Jensen, Chairman of the Grunt Style Foundation and Marine Corps veteran. "We didn't wait for permission. We just got to work."

The relief operation - unfolding in real time - saw an impressive logistics network built virtually overnight. From securing supplies to coordinating trucks, warehouses, and local volunteers, the partnership demonstrated what veteran-led community service looks like when purpose meets action.

VFW National Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt stated, "This response effort is the blueprint for how VFW Posts across the country can respond to future disasters. It's not just about service - it's about relevance. Our GWOT veterans want to serve again. This gives them that opportunity."

The sentiment of the VFW Commander in Chief was echoed by Texas VFW Chief of Staff, Greg Brannan and lead disaster coordinator for the Texas VFW. "I am incredibly proud of our partnership with the Texas VFW and the Grunt Style Foundation, which proved vital in delivering rapid and effective disaster relief. The speed and precision our team demonstrated ensured that critical supplies reached veterans, their families, and the communities most in need without delay. This collaborative effort showcased not only our shared commitment but also our ability to act decisively when it matters most.

The Central Texas response is more than a victory in crisis relief - it's the birth of a new operational model. One that fuses veteran experience with community needs. One that inspires younger generations of post-9/11 veterans to re-engage with VFW Posts by giving them purpose, mission, and leadership roles.

As the waters recede, the work continues - clearing debris, rebuilding homes, restoring hope. And this partnership isn't going anywhere. Plans are already underway to formalize the model for use nationwide during future emergencies.

Because when disaster strikes, America's veterans don't retreat - they engage.

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About Grunt Style Foundation:
The Grunt Style Foundation is dedicated to the mental and physical wellness of our veterans, service members, and their families. Through community partnerships and direct aid, the Foundation provides rapid support and long-term solutions for those who've served.

VFW Joins DPAA in Vietnam for 30-Year Commemoration

WASHINGTON - Last week in Hanoi, Vietnam, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Past Commander-in-Chief Larry Rivers and VFW Executive Director Ryan Gallucci took part in a series of events surrounding key anniversaries in U.S.-Vietnam relations. The visit coincided with the 30th anniversary of reestablishing diplomatic ties between the United States and Vietnam, as well as the 40th anniversary of the first American recovery mission for those missing in action from the Vietnam War.

"I want to thank the (VFW) Commander-in-Chief for inviting me to be his representative here," said Rivers. "It means a lot to me personally."

VFW Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt chose Rivers - a Marine Corps Vietnam veteran - to represent the organization because Rivers played a key role in reestablishing veteran-to-veteran relations with Vietnam in the early 1990s, building up to the formal establishment of the American embassy in Hanoi in 1995. Rivers, who at the time served as the VFW Washington Office Executive Director, personally participated in several visits to Vietnam in the 90s, alongside key leaders like Senators John Kerry and John McCain, demonstrating that American veterans from Vietnam sought to work with former adversaries to advance common interests, like accounting for missing service members.

"I remember very vividly the many events that took place in the early '90's ... the role the VFW played, the very difficult and hard decisions we often made in order to make this reconciliation come about," said Rivers. "Our leadership and our foresight as an organization has paid dividends."

In addition to formal celebrations of these key anniversaries, the VFW delegation attended a series of meetings and events around Hanoi to promote the evolving relationship between the United States and Vietnam. These events included attending the symbolic handover of wartime files and artifacts at Vietnam's Archive III as well as the presentation of DNA sequencing equipment to the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology. The equipment, which was presented to the institute by U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper and DPAA Director Kelly McKeague, will provide state-of-the-art capability to help Vietnam identify its missing from the conflict that ended more than 50 years ago.

"It was important to us to move forward to a more normal relationship so we could have access to the rest of the country," said Rivers. "Access alone and the more than 700 families that have been brought to closure because of our recovery efforts, it was worth what we did some 30 years ago."

During a meeting with the Veterans Association of Vietnam, Rivers highlighted the ongoing support from VFW members who continue to return war artifacts for the VFW to formally hand over to help Vietnam identify its missing. On Tuesday, the VFW turned over another set of artifacts to the Vietnamese Embassy in Washington, D.C., alongside DPAA leadership.

"The VFW has a record of service and should be proud of our efforts, not only during times of war, but in times of bringing peace," said Rivers.

VFW also met with the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO), which is an agency designed to foster people-to-people relationships between Vietnam and other nations. VUFO has played a key role in the VFW's relationship with Vietnam over the last 30 years.

"I think it is important to realize, just as we did after WWII, that enemies move on and become friends and allies," said Rivers. "I think that is happening here in Vietnam."

Finally, Rivers sat down for a one-on-one meeting with Ambassador Knapper to discuss the evolving relationship between the United States and Vietnam and also received a limited country team briefing alongside McKeague leading into the week's events.

"Certainly, we are proud to have been at the forefront, fought for our country, and now being a major force in bringing peace between former enemies," said Rivers. "It proves the VFW is the very best veterans organization and provides the very best leadership among the veterans community in the whole world."

As Rivers concluded his visit, he shared a special message to his fellow Vietnam War veterans living in the United States and abroad.

"I want to end by saying a sincere thank you to our many Vietnam veterans that are still alive, you served your country well, you should be proud of that service," said Rivers.

See photos from the visit and ceremony here.

VFW and NACVSO Sign Historic MOU to Expand Veteran Service Capabilities

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO) officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) today during NACVSO's annual conference at the Louisville Convention Center. This landmark agreement authorizes the cross-accreditation of representatives between the two organizations, significantly expanding access to critical services for America's veterans, their families, and survivors.

The ceremonial signing was conducted by VFW National Veterans Service Director Mike Figlioli and NACVSO National Service Director Mike Farmer with veteran advocates from across the nation in attendance to witness the event.

"With today's signing of this historic MOU, we expand the manpower and technical capabilities of our two great organizations, the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO) and the VFW," said Figlioli. "Both organizations share the same mission and vision - to provide veterans, family members and their survivors with their rightfully earned benefits - ALWAYS FREE OF CHARGE! This agreement adds another 2,200 professionally trained, VA-accredited representatives to the VFW's already extensive worldwide cadre in providing this critical service."

The agreement formalizes a collaborative framework that will allow cross-accredited service officers to represent claimants under the VFW's accreditation, enhancing responsiveness, increasing coverage, and streamlining the delivery of VA benefits assistance across all levels of government.

Figlioli also recognized key leaders and advocates who made this milestone possible.

"The VFW would like to thank Ed Zachary for his efforts in laying the groundwork for this agreement, NACVSO President Christopher Hinton, First Vice President Andrew Tangen, National Service Director Michael Farmer, and all the members of NACVSO for making this shared vision a reality. VFW looks forward to the great successes we will achieve together on behalf of those who deserve it the most."

"We're excited to expand our ability to serve veterans through this partnership with the VFW," said NACVSO National Service Director Mike Farmer. "This agreement strengthens our shared commitment to ensuring veterans, their spouses, and dependents receive every benefit they've earned - and opens the door to more training, collaboration, and impact in our communities."

This MOU reflects the VFW and NACVSO's joint commitment to ensuring that no veteran is left behind in the claims process and reinforces the long-standing tradition of veteran service organizations working hand-in-hand to protect and defend the rights and dignity of those who served.

About NACVSO: The National Association of County Veteran Service Officers is a professional organization of accredited veteran advocates serving veterans and their families at the county level. NACVSO is committed to ensuring that all veterans receive the benefits and recognition they have earned through honorable service to the United States. For more information, visit the NACVSO website at nacvso.org.