Press Releases

VFW Honors National Vietnam War Veterans Day

KANSAS CITY - National Vietnam War Veterans Day is a solemn and significant occasion for the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and our nation. Established through the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017, March 29 is a time to honor the courage, sacrifice and enduring legacy of the millions of American men and women who served during the Vietnam War.

From February 1961 to May 1975, more than 3.4 million Americans were deployed in support of U.S military operations in Vietnam and throughout Southeast Asia, with more than 58,000 paying the ultimate sacrifice. According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, nearly 1,600 remain unaccounted for.

"Vietnam veterans answered their nation's call during a complex and deeply challenging conflict, yet far too many were met with silence or indifference upon returning home," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "Their fight didn't end overseas, and the VFW reaffirms our commitment to ensuring they receive the benefits they have earned, along with the high-quality care related to toxic exposure that still impacts their lives today."

On this day of remembrance, the VFW calls on all Americans to take time to not only reflect on the sacrifices made by our Vietnam veterans and their families, but to thank them and to listen to their stories. To all who served, we offer our deepest gratitude and renew our enduring promise: We will never forget your service, we will never stop advocating on your behalf and we will always honor your legacy.

VFW Debuts New Tool to Streamline VA Benefits Assistance

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) announced today the launch of a new online tool designed to simplify and accelerate the process for veterans seeking help filing for their earned U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits.

The new system allows veterans, service members within 180 days of separation and survivors to complete a brief online form that instantly generates a case record in the assigned VFW Accredited Service Officer's system, enabling an efficient review of qualifying information, and expediting the initial intake and follow up period.

"For more than a century, the VFW has helped veterans navigate and access the benefits they earned through their service - last year we recovered $16.2 billion from the VA on their behalf," said Mike Figlioli, VFW Director of National Veterans Service. "This new tool removes unnecessary barriers and connects veterans with expert help faster than ever before."

VFW representatives are professionally trained and accredited to represent veterans before the VA. They provide free assistance with filing disability claims, appealing decisions, and accessing a wide range of benefits and services. Furthermore, they provide a lifelong continuum of support, helping veterans navigate their benefits from their first claim through every stage that follows.

By automating the initial intake process, the new tool ensures that veterans are connected to the right representative quickly and efficiently.

The new system is designed to reduce paperwork, eliminate confusion and streamline communication between veterans and their VFW representative. With just a few simple questions, veterans can begin the process of receiving personalized assistance while ensuring their information is securely transmitted and immediately available to the representative assigned to their case.

"This is about meeting veterans where they are," added Figlioli. "Whether they're just beginning the claims process or need help with an appeal, this tool helps ensure they are connected with a trained advocate who will stand with them every step of the way."

The VFW encourages veterans and survivors to use the new online tool as the first step in accessing the benefits they earned through their military service.

To learn more or begin the process, visit claims.vfw.org.

Rep. Pfluger Named 2026 VFW Congressional Award Recipient

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proudly presented its 2026 Congressional Award to Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, tonight at the conclusion of its annual Washington Conference, recognizing him for his leadership in the 119th Congress and his career-long advocacy on behalf of veterans and service members.

"Representative Pfluger uses his personal experience as a combat fighter pilot to identify and fix gaps and shortcomings in our system, ensuring veterans have a passionate and determined advocate in the halls of Congress," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "His commitment and resolve for action over words on many VFW priorities is evident, and we are eager to continue working alongside him to better care for America's service members, veterans and their families."

Presented annually since 1964, the VFW Congressional Award is given to one member of the House or Senate for significant legislative contributions on behalf of veterans and military personnel. Past recipients include strong national security and veterans' advocates, such as Sen. Bob Dole, R-KS, Rep. G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery, D-MS, Sen. John McCain, R-AZ, Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, D-Hawaii, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-VT, Rep. Joe Wilson, R-SC, and Sen. Jon Tester, D-MT, among many others. Last year's award went to Rep. Derrick Van Orden, R-WI, who currently serves on the House Committees on Veterans' Affairs, Armed Services and Agriculture.

Rep. Pfluger's work in Congress led him to introduce the House version of the Aviation Cancer Examination Study (ACES) Act, a long-standing VFW priority enacted as Public Law 119-32, which directed VA to study cancer rates among military fixed-wing aircrew and advance accountability and life-saving care. He has also cosponsored key VFW priorities, including the Major Richard Star Act, the Veterans' ACCESS Act of 2025, the Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act of 2025, and the Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act of 2025, safeguarding earned benefits, expanding access to care, and strengthening support for National Guard and Reserve, and medically retired service members.

Before joining Congress, Rep. Pfluger graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 2000. A former squadron commander, he has logged more than 2,000 flight hours, including 300 in combat over Syria and Northern Iraq. He is currently a colonel in the Air Force Reserve.

"Rep. Pfluger's military experience and tenacity make him a leading voice in Washington on veterans issues and national security, and the more than 1.3 million VFW and VFW Auxiliary members are proud to bestow upon him this year's Congressional Award."

VFW Appalled Major Richard Star Act Vote Blocked for Second Time

WASHINGTON - Today, Ranking Member Blumenthal asked for unanimous consent for passage of S. 1032, the Major Richard Star Act, on the floor of the U.S. Senate. This is the first time the motion was made since it failed to pass in October, held up then by Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi. I regret to announce that it was turned down again, this time by Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin. I am appalled by the resistance by certain members of Congress to care for veterans who have sacrificed so much for this nation.

As I testified earlier today before a special joint hearing of the United States Senate and House Committees on Veterans' Affairs, the Major Richard Star Act will fix the unjust offset affecting more than 50,000 medically retired combat veterans. This is not double-dipping. This is double sacrifice. Veterans have fulfilled their obligation. Now, the country must Honor the Contract. Not partially, not eventually, not someday, but today, fully and faithfully. Stop the procedural games, have a real hearing, and get this done. Pass the Major Richard Star Act now!

VFW First Woman Commander Makes History Delivering Legislative Priorities to Congress

WASHINGTON - In a standing-room-only chamber at the Dirksen Senate Office Building, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) National Commander Carol Whitmore delivered forceful testimony Tuesday before a special joint hearing of the United States Senate and House Committees on Veterans' Affairs.

The chamber was filled wall-to-wall with VFW and VFW Auxiliary members proudly wearing their caps, a visible show of unity behind their commander-in-chief, the first woman veteran to lead the VFW in its 126-year history. An overflow room for watching the hearing was also filled to capacity with VFW and Auxiliary members who traveled from across the country and around the world from all 52 departments of the organization.

VFW national staff and members who joined Whitmore on the dais were Assistant Adjutant General and Washington Office Executive Director Ryan Gallucci, National Legislative Service Director Kristina Keenan, National Veterans Service Director Michael Figlioli, and National Legislative Committee Chairman Jason Johns.

During the opening remarks, Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal announced that he was going to the Senate floor at 12 p.m. EST to ask for unanimous consent for passage or a vote on S. 1032, the Major Richard Star Act, which was met with rousing applause.

Fellow Iowan, VFW member, and close personal friend, U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst introduced Whitmore to the members of the joint committee in attendance.

Before addressing policy, Whitmore paused to recognize service members currently deployed.

"Before I begin, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge Operation Epic Fury also and give our thoughts and prayers to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice," Whitmore said. "And those who are in harm's way, like the VFW Claims Representative Rosa Valdez currently serving in Kuwait."

She thanked Chairmen Jerry Moran and Mike Bost, Ranking Members Richard Blumenthal and Mark Takano, and members of both committees for the opportunity to testify on behalf of nearly 1.3 million VFW and Auxiliary members.

Whitmore's message to Congress was clear and unwavering: Honor the Contract. She framed her testimony around a single principle.

"When Americans raise their right hand and volunteer to serve, this nation makes a solemn promise: if they are wounded, become ill or die in service, America will care for them and their families," Whitmore said. "That promise is not charity. It is the binding contract between service members and the country they defend."

As applause filled the chamber, she addressed concerns about cost directly.

"When some suggest that veterans' benefits are too expensive, let us be clear ... this is the cost of war," Whitmore said.

A former Army nurse, Whitmore emphasized her personal connection.

"Caring for service members and veterans is not an abstract policy issue for me ... it is personal," Whitmore said.

Whitmore praised the passage of the PACT Act but warned that implementation must match intent.

"Passage alone does not fulfill the promise," Whitmore said.

She urged Congress to ensure the VA aggressively applies its authorities to address unrecognized toxic exposures, including Vietnam-era burn pits, K2 veterans, submariners and others exposed in hazardous conditions.

With PACT Act claims surging, Whitmore stressed that VA direct care and community care must function as one system.

"Veterans experience health care in moments of need," Whitmore said. "In those moments, what matters most is reliable, timely, high-quality care delivered with dignity and respect."

She called for clear benchmarks on wait times and travel standards and urged passage of the Veterans' ACCESS Act of 2025.

"Veterans should never have to fight their way through red tape just to receive the care they earned," Whitmore said.

Whitmore highlighted systemic shortcomings in the Foreign Medical Program, sharing the story of retired Army veteran Blane Gish in Berlin, who paid more than 5,000 euros up front for hearing aids and waited six months for reimbursement, only to receive a check that failed to account for exchange rates.

"Veterans overseas deserve equal treatment," Whitmore said.

She also called for the modernization of CHAMP-VA, citing slow claims processing and limited access that strain military families.

In one of the most powerful moments of the hearing, Whitmore asked veterans and families affected by suicide to stand. Dozens rose throughout the chamber.

"Members of the committee ... this is the scope of the challenge before us," Whitmore said.

She called for written, informed consent for VA-prescribed psychiatric medications and urged passage of the Veteran Suicide Prevention Act.

"We cannot improve what we do not examine," Whitmore said.

Whitmore emphasized the need for cutting-edge treatment for traumatic brain injury and PTSD, sharing the story of Afghanistan veteran Joshua Starks, who found healing outside the VA only after a devastating personal loss.

"Veterans should not have to leave the VA to find healing," Whitmore said.

She urged Congress to pass the Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act to ensure that treatment is driven by science and urgency.

With nearly 200,000 service members leaving active duty annually, Whitmore raised concerns about inadequate Transition Assistance Program implementation - particularly for troops separating overseas.

"When service members separate without proper guidance, they risk delays in receiving the benefits they earned," Whitmore said.

She called for the passage of the TAP Promotion Act to ensure seamless continuity of care and compensation.

Though outside the committees' primary jurisdiction, Whitmore urged full funding for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.

"Service members are taught to leave no one behind. That commitment never ends," Whitmore said.

She condemned proposed cuts despite record Pentagon budgets.

"Fully fund DPAA so that our missing can receive their final salute on American soil," Whitmore said.

Whitmore closed with a passionate call to end the unjust offset affecting more than 50,000 medically retired combat veterans.

"This is not double-dipping. This is double sacrifice," Whitmore said. "Pass the Major Richard Star Act now!"

The chamber erupted into sustained applause and a standing ovation from members in their VFW caps.

Whitmore concluded by reminding lawmakers that the All-Volunteer Force depends on trust.

"Veterans have fulfilled their obligation. Now the country must Honor the Contract," Whitmore said. "Not partially, not eventually, not someday, but today, fully and faithfully."

She thanked the committee leadership and expressed readiness to answer questions, leaving behind a clear message echoed by the hundreds in attendance: Honor the Contract.

Video of today's testimony is available to watch and share here.

Read Commander Whitmore's full testimony here.

The presentation of S. 1032, the Major Richard Star Act, to the Senate for unanimous consent can be viewed live on C-SPAN and at senate.gov.

VFW Expresses Condolences for US Casualties of Operation Epic Fury

WASHINGTON - On behalf of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and its Auxiliary, we are deeply saddened by the news that three American service members were killed in action and five others seriously wounded during the ongoing Operation Epic Fury.

These brave men and women answered our nation's call without hesitation, serving in harm's way to defend the freedoms we too often take for granted. Their courage, commitment and selfless devotion to duty represent the very best of America.

We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Gold Star families whose loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice. No words can fully ease the pain of such profound loss, but please know that a grateful nation stands beside you. We also keep those who were wounded in our thoughts and pray for their full and swift recovery.

The VFW remains steadfast in our support of the men and women currently deployed in Operation Epic Fury and across the globe. We honor the lives and legacy of the fallen and we will never forget their sacrifice in defense of our country and liberty everywhere.

VFW Affirms its Promise to US Service Members as Operation Epic Fury Begins

WASHINGTON - Last night, the United States and its Israeli ally began combat operations against Iran in an operation dubbed Epic Fury.

As war once again comes to the Middle East, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) asks all Americans to keep our brave service members overseas in their thoughts and prayers. At this very hour, they are carrying out difficult and dangerous missions in defense of our nation and our allies.

The VFW understands all too well that freedom is never free and that our world remains a dangerous place. America's prepared, professional and resolute all-volunteer force continues to stand watch, serving on the front lines far from home so that our families may live in safety.

We will never forget the weight of that responsibility, nor the sacrifices borne by those in uniform and their loved ones. The VFW remains unwavering in our commitment to support you and your families, advocate for you, and ensure the American people fully understand the significance of your service and sacrifice in defense of liberty. Finally, when your mission and service to our country is complete, we will make sure that our elected officials maintain the care and benefits you earned and Honor the Contract you have upheld.

VFW Honors Women's History Month

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - This Women's History Month, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) joins a grateful nation in honoring and recognizing the generations of American women veterans who have protected our nation and helped build the strongest and most capable military that we have today.

Women have been an integral part of our nation's defense since its founding, with many serving as nurses, spies and even as disguised soldiers long before World War I, when they were allowed to openly serve in the U.S. military. Since then, almost 2.2 million women have served in uniform in every branch of the Armed Forces and in every war and conflict of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Congress passed Public Law 97-28 in 1981 designating "Women's History Week" to acknowledge the contributions women of every race, class and ethnic background have made to the nation despite being "consistently overlooked and undervalued in the body of American History." This moment recognized that women were not just participants in our history, but leaders at the forefront of every major progressive change, from suffrage and abolition to the modern civil rights movement. In 1987, this recognition was rightfully expanded to the entire month of March under Public Law 100-9.

VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore, the first woman to lead the organization in its 126-year history, reminds Americans, "The contributions of women to our national security are not simply a footnote in our history books, they are a cornerstone. The VFW salutes the women who have stood their ground on the battlefield, navigated challenging terrain and overcame blocking obstacles, all while carrying the heavy burden of proving their worth in hostile environments. They ensured that the 'right to serve' became a reality for all future generations. Their enduring achievements have played an indispensable role in securing our freedom and defining our way of life.

"I am honored to lead a VFW that is proud to recognize and celebrate the countless contributions of our nation's women service members and veterans, and remains committed to advocating for the respect, health care and benefits our women veterans have earned."

VFW Commends VA for Listening to Veterans' Voices and Rescinding Rule

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) commends the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for officially rescinding its interim final rule that would have changed how disability ratings are evaluated, a policy the VFW warned could unfairly reduce benefits for disabled veterans.

Since VA opened the rule for public comment, more than 20,000 comments have been submitted to the Federal Register urging the department to withdraw the policy.

"These last 10 days prove that when our veterans speak, leaders will listen," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "We thank Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins for hearing veterans' concerns and taking meaningful steps to reverse an abrupt policy change that could have had far-reaching unintended consequences for veterans whose medication and other treatments allow them to live day-to-day with their service-connected health conditions."

Last week, the VFW publicly demanded VA rescind the rule change, raising "serious concerns" it threatened the benefits veterans earned through their service.

"The VFW has long maintained that no veteran should ever think they could be penalized for seeking the medical care they need," said Whitmore. "We appreciate VA's willingness to engage with veterans on this critical issue."

While this reversal is a significant step forward, the VFW will continue to work with Congress, VA, and other stakeholders to ensure that future policy changes are developed with full transparency, genuine veteran input and a steadfast commitment to protecting the benefits and well-being of all veterans.

VFW Named Beneficiary of Harley-Davidson's Second Annual Let's Ride Challenge®

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to announce it has again been named a beneficiary of Harley-Davidson's Let's Ride Challenge^® Ride for Heroes, continuing a powerful partnership dedicated to honoring and supporting America's veterans, service members and first responders for the second year in a row.

Following the success of last year's campaign, Harley-Davidson^® is revving up for year two with renewed purpose - from now through Oct. 31, the 2026 Let's Ride Challenge^® is turning every mile ridden into meaningful support and putting special purpose behind riders' miles with the goal of donating $1 million to organizations that support America's service members, veterans and first responders - like the VFW!

Every mile VFW members and our supporters ride helps support this meaningful $1 million mission. The VFW and many H-D dealers have been actively working together to support veterans locally since 2020.

The Let's Ride Challenge^® is now open to all riders, regardless of what bike you ride. Riders can now register online at h-dletsride.com from anywhere, anytime. No dealer visit is required to sign up. After registering, participants will still need to go to a Harley-Davidson^® dealership to track their odometer mileage. Harley Owners Group^® or Passenger member rewards go even further as your miles will count toward the H.O.G. Ride 365^® Mileage Challenges and the Let's Ride Challenge.

The 2026 Let's Ride Challenge^® Ride for Heroes is more than just a ride - it's a "thank you" to those who have given so much for our freedom, and the VFW encourages all VFW and Auxiliary members and supporters to join in to make this year's event even bigger and better than last year! This isn't just about the miles, it's about the mission.

*NO PURCHASE/PAYMENT NEC. THIS IS A CONTEST OF SKILL. Offered only to motorcycle riders, above age of majority & legal US/DC res (excludes HI). Other elig restrs apply. Contest starts on 2/27/2026 at 8 AM EST & ends 10/31/2026 at 11:59 PM EDT. You must have smartphone/mobile device capable of scanning QR Codes to register (one time only) & obtain periodic mileage validations at participating Harley-Davidson® dealerships and at Dealer-specified events to compete. DATA RATES MAY APPLY. MAY NOT BE AVAIL IN ALL AREAS OR ON ALL DEVICES. Contestants are scored based on combination of miles ridden & dealer engagement credits. Results will be tabulated & winners will be determined no later than 12/31/2026. Prizes: Black & Orange Tier GP Motorcycle (1): 2026 H-D® CVO™ Road Glide®*. ARV: $44,999. Diamond Tier GP Motorcycle (1): 2026 H-D® Street Glide®*. ARV: $25,499. Platinum GP Motorcycle (1): 2026 H-D® Fat Boy®*. ARV: $22,899. Gold Tier GP Motorcycle (1): 2026 H-D® Street Bob®*. ARV: $14,999. Silver Tier GP Motorcycle (1): 2026 H-D® Nightster®*. ARV: $9,999. *GP Motorcycle winners who are eligible and paid Harley Owners Group® or Passenger members prior to 10/31/2026 only will also receive $5,000 check, which will increase their prize ARV by $5,000. This is only awarded to elig Harley Owners Group® mbrs. Limit 1 GP Motorcycle/person. Each Motorcycle Prize winner must pay tag/title/dealer & fees prior to claiming Motorcycle Prize & are resp for all other taxes/costs not stated above. Other restrs apply. For full rules (incl partic dealerships, registration/mileage validation steps, contest scoring, eligibility, winner determination & prizes) & Winners' List (avail no later than 12/31/2026), visit h-dletsride.com. Sponsor/Operator: Mighty Loud, Inc. All rights reserved. Void where prohibited. Donations made to military, veteran and first responder organizations will not affect your participation in this challenge.

VFW Eager to Deliver 2026 Priority Goals to Congress

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars' (VFW) annual Washington Conference begins Sunday, Mar. 1, in Washington, D.C., and will continue through Thursday, Mar. 5. Several hundred VFW and Auxiliary members are anticipated to arrive in the nation's capital, traveling from around the world to conduct organizational business and participate in the organization's largest yearly advocacy event.

"As a VFW member and advocate, I have been in House and Senate offices numerous times communicating with lawmakers on what veterans care about most," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "But none of those experiences compare to my task this week. Veterans benefits have come under attack with echoes from the 1930s, with some who have never worn the uniform claiming benefits are wasteful, or that the wear-and-tear of 20 years of war is somehow frivolous. The VFW resolutely fought against cuts then, just as we are today. Real lives are impacted by what we've come to advocate for, and real consequences await service members and veterans if Congress and administration leaders do not Honor the Contract."

The main event of the Washington Conference is the annual commander-in-chief's testimony set for Tuesday, Mar. 3 at 10 a.m. EST before a special joint hearing of the House and Senate Committees on Veterans' Affairs held at the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Room SD-G50.

"What weighs heaviest on my heart are the combat injured veterans who are accused of wanting to double dip when they have earned everything they are asking for: their full retirement pay and disability compensation without offset," Whitmore said. "It is unconscionable that Congress continues to stonewall this injustice, and we will not continue to stand by while their families pay the price of their war wounds. They didn't ask to be retired early; they were forced, and they are due every single dime of their earned benefits."

Whitmore is prepared to discuss the VFW's top priorities for 2026 including:

VA Community Care: Passing the Veterans' ACCESS Act of 2025 and the Foreign Medical Program Modernization Act of 2025.
Concurrent Receipt: Passing the Major Richard Star Act.
Veteran Suicide: Passing the Written Informed Consent Act and the Veteran Suicide Prevention Act.
Brain Health Care: Passing the Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act of 2025, the Blast Overpressure Research and Mitigation Task Force Act, the Precision Brain Health Research Act of 2025, and the Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act.

Whitmore also plans to cover legislative efforts that would prohibit the exploitation of veterans by Claim Sharks, codify accredited claims representatives' access to service members in military Transition Assistance Program classrooms and ensure oversight and transparency of the VA presumption decision process as passed in the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-168).

The VFW's annual Washington Conference is also the culmination of the VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship program, which is currently in its 12th year. Fellows will accompany VFW advocates on Capitol Hill to employ the leadership and advocacy skills they have learned since beginning the program in October 2025. Together with their VFW delegations, each fellow will discuss the importance of increasing the Post-9/11 GI Bill book stipend with lawmakers and staff, leveraging their experiences as student veterans who commonly rely on fixed incomes.

Finally, the night before Commander Whitmore's testimony, the VFW and its partners from Grunt Style Foundation and Irreverent Warrior will convene at the Lincoln Memorial at 5pm to tour our nation's war memorials, reflecting on the sacrifices of the generations before us and recommitting to advocate for our veterans and the benefits they have earned. Dubbed the "Bonus Army Memorial March," this evening hike around the National Reflecting Pool will serve as a time to reinforce the VFW's mission for the week, while remembering our history and the fights that paved the way for our nation's warfighters.

Read the VFW's complete list of 2026 Priority Goals here.

The U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs will livestream this year's testimony on its hearings page here. It can also be viewed on the VFW's website here.

Get ready for the 2026 Washington Conference by downloading the VFW Events 2026 app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store today. Visit vfw.org/VFWDC2026 for all Washington Conference updates.

VFW Demands VA Rescind Disability Rating Rule Change

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) is demanding that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) immediately rescind its interim final rule changing how disability ratings are evaluated, warning that the policy threatens to unfairly reduce benefits for disabled veterans.

In a letter sent yesterday, the VFW raised serious concerns about the rule's broad impact on veterans with musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain and mental health conditions, as well as VA's decision to bypass the traditional notice-and-comment process. The VA's response, the VFW said, failed to address those concerns.

"The VA's response to the well-articulated concerns raised by so many has been dismissive and unacceptable," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "Disabled veterans should never be forced to choose between following their doctor's orders and protecting their earned benefits. This interim rule puts that stability at risk, and it must be withdrawn."

The rule directs VA adjudicators to evaluate veterans based on their level of functioning while on medication, rather than the true underlying severity of their service-connected conditions in a shift that contradicts long-standing court precedent and risks penalizing veterans who follow prescribed treatment.

"VA's disability compensation system exists to compensate veterans for the average impairment in earning capacity resulting from service-connected conditions," said Whitmore. "It should not penalize veterans for seeking treatment, nor should it sidestep the system of judicial accountability Congress deliberately put in place."

Since the creation of judicial review in 1988, veterans law has evolved through a constructive dialogue between the courts, Congress and VA. If the Department disagrees with judicial interpretation, the appropriate response is engagement through the rulemaking process or legislative clarification, not the use of emergency procedures to bypass public input while casting binding precedent as an obstacle.

The VFW believes that invoking "good cause" to avoid notice-and-comment procedures, particularly where the rule materially affects earned disability compensation, undermines transparency and risks eroding confidence in the veteran-centric, non-adversarial benefits system Congress intended.

"Congress created judicial review of VA decisions to ensure accountability, uniformity and fidelity to the law," said VFW General Counsel John Muckelbauer. "When Congress established the United States Court of Veterans Appeals, which is now the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, it did so to end decades of unchecked administrative decision-making and to provide veterans with an independent forum for review. Judicial oversight is not a disruption; it is a statutory safeguard."

In addition to rescinding the rule, the VFW is calling on VA to restore the prior evaluation standard pending full regulatory review; and engage Congress and stakeholders in a transparent process that respects judicial precedent and protects veterans' earned benefits.

The VFW will continue to submit formal comments, consult with Congress and evaluate all available options to ensure the integrity of the veterans benefits system is preserved.

To submit your comment to the Federal Register, calling to rescind this rule change, click here.

VFW Raises Serious Concerns Over VA Disability Rating Policy Interim Rule Change

WASHINGTON - Yesterday, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) published an interim final rule that immediately changes how disability ratings are evaluated, prompting the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) to send a letter outlining its concerns to VA Secretary Doug Collins.

For years, courts held that VA could not reduce ratings based on the effects of medication, requiring evaluation of a veteran's true functional impairment when evaluating a service-connected disability. This new rule reverses that standard, directing examiners to rate disabilities as they present, including the impact of medication, and to disregard unmedicated baseline severity.

"As a former Army nurse, it seems this rule change could have unforeseen and harmful downstream effects for veterans, which is why it demands serious public scrutiny and possible legislative clarification from Capitol Hill," said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. "While VA has authority to amend the rating schedule, it must do so without adversely affecting veterans, which is why we invite dialogue with Secretary Collins and his team to ensure we are crafting benefits policy in a way that honors the sacrifices of our veterans and protects their earned benefits."

This abrupt shift risks penalizing veterans for complying with treatment, particularly those with musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, and mental health conditions who rely on medication to function. Veterans whose conditions are made more tolerable by medication, thereby creating the illusion of bonafide improvement, may now appear less disabled and receive lower ratings on new or future claims.

VA justified the use of its emergency authority to issue an interim final rule without normal public comment by writing that "the [Ingram v. Collins] decision is the latest and most disruptive in a line of [Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, or CAVC] cases that have ignored the purpose of disability ratings and VA's longstanding historical practices and policies in assigning such ratings."

The VFW disagrees with VA's perspective and believes that Ingram and other CAVC decisions have served to reinforce the veteran-centric, non-adversarial VA benefits adjudication system. VFW also questions VA's use of "good cause" to bypass public notice and is seeking clarity on regulatory analysis, side effects, fluctuating conditions and safeguards against unfair reexaminations.

In addition to its letter to the Secretary, VFW will post its public comments to the Federal Register and work with Congress to clarify its intent to ensure that the VA benefits system remains veteran-centric and non-adversarial.

Read the Federal Register announcement for the interim final rule here.

VFW Applauds Federal Court Decision Striking Down Louisiana 'PLUS Act'

WASHINGTON - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) applauds the federal court's decision striking down Louisiana's so-called "PLUS Act" as unconstitutional. This ruling sends a clear message: States cannot rewrite federal law to accommodate companies that rip off veterans - and any state considering similar legislation should take notice.

For years, the VFW has warned that laws like the PLUS Act undermine Congress' carefully balanced system for veterans' benefits and open the door to abuse and even fraud by unaccredited, fee-charging operators. The court's decision confirms that those warnings were justified.

Let's be honest - this law was never about protecting veterans. It was about protecting businesses that charge veterans unjustifiable fees for services that should be free. We saw through that and so did the court. The Louisiana law sidelined legitimate, accredited representatives to prop up an unregulated industry that scams veterans and the court shut it down.

The VA claims system is governed by federal law for a reason: to ensure uniform standards, qualified representation and real accountability - especially for agents and attorneys who can already charge for certain claims in the marketplace. When states attempt to create their own fee structures and regulatory schemes, they weaken those protections and confuse veterans.

This decision should serve as a warning to every state considering similar bills. If you try to override federal law and legitimize unaccredited operators, you will lose - and veterans will pay the price in the meantime.

Veterans should never have to wonder whether someone helping them is legitimate or just looking for a payday. If you're OK with putting veterans into debt, you're not serving them, you're exploiting them.

The VFW has consistently led the fight against "Claim Sharks," even when it meant facing lawsuits, political pressure and well-funded opposition. When others hesitated, we didn't. We stood up because veterans deserve better. And we will keep standing up, no matter how uncomfortable it makes people who profit off this system.

This ruling preserves the integrity of the VA accreditation system and protects veterans from being steered toward unqualified, unregulated actors. It also reinforces a simple truth: accredited veterans service organizations like the VFW provide claims assistance free of charge - just as Congress intended.

This is a win for veterans across the country. It's a win for transparency, accountability and fairness. And it's a reminder that veterans' benefits should never be treated as a get-rich-quick scheme.

The VFW urges lawmakers nationwide to learn from this decision and focus on strengthening accredited assistance rather than creating unconstitutional workarounds that benefit bad actors. We will continue working with lawmakers and regulators to ensure veterans are protected, informed, and never pressured to pay for benefits they have earned through their service.

DAV and VFW Unveil Funding Recommendations for Department of Veterans Affairs

WASHINGTON - DAV (Disabled American Veterans) and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) have released their co-authored fiscal year (FY) 2027 budget recommendations for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The Veterans Independent Budget (VIB) includes funding recommendations for the VA enterprise from health care to information technology to veterans' benefits and beyond.

"The Veterans Independent Budget is an indispensable report that Congress and decision-makers in Washington reference every year to help guide decisions on VA programs and services," said VFW Washington Office Executive Director Ryan Gallucci. "Since 2007, when my time in veterans' advocacy began, I have seen this product consistently evolve and nearly always hit the mark in identifying trends, opportunities, and shortcomings in VA programming."

In their newest VIB report, DAV and the VFW propose itemized recommendations based on documented and justified needs as well as projected usage of VA benefits and services, inflation, a one percent federal pay raise, policy changes and program expansions resulting in a needs-based budget that truly serves veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors.

"Our nation has a solemn duty to honor its commitment to America's veterans by ensuring timely access to the high-quality health care and benefits they have earned and deserve," said DAV Washington Headquarters Executive Director Jim Marszalek. "We call on VA and Congress to fully fund all veterans benefits and services, particularly critical unmet needs, such as long-term care, dental care, breakthrough drugs and therapies, and urgent and emergency care services."

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) anticipates providing about 162 million outpatient visits to veterans in FY 2027, a record number that does not capture actual and suppressed demand for care. To fully meet veterans' projected health care needs, the VIB calls for approximately $191.5 billion in total resources for the VHA, representing an increase of about $22.1 billion, or 13%, over FY 2026. This proposal reflects heightened workloads on VHA staff and resources from more unique veteran users who increasingly seek and rely on VA for their care. Moreover, the increase captures investments in VHA capacity in areas including long-term care, dental services, urgent and emergency care, and direct care in lieu of community care.

As the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) works toward responsible, AI-enabled efficiencies, DAV and the VFW recommend maintaining the enhanced capacity that was implemented between 2023 and 2024 while appropriating additional funding to meet the demands of increasing claims for all VA benefits, the federal pay raise, rising inflation and new policy demands, such as enhanced collaboration between the VA and Department of Defense on military transition and the recent Rudisill v. McDonough Supreme Court ruling that expanded education benefits. As such, DAV and the VFW recommend a total VBA budget allocation of roughly $6.2 billion in total resources, which represents an increase of approximately $940 million, or 18%, over the FY 2026 enacted budget.

VA maintains a vast and aging infrastructure, more than 6,250 buildings, most supporting health care, and its 10-year capital needs have surged from $40 billion in FY 2016 to over $170 billion in FY 2026, far outpacing annual funding and threatening long-term system viability. To begin closing this gap, the VIB urges serious, sustained investment and recommends $3.6 billion for Major Construction and $5.1 billion for Minor Construction in FY 2027 to modernize facilities, expand care capacity and address critical deficiencies. The VIB also calls for at least $600 million to reduce the backlog in State Veterans Home construction grants and $75 million for State Cemetery Construction to preserve burial access nationwide.

"Unfortunately, the Department of Veterans Affairs does not currently have the internal capacity to meet the rising demand for VA health care due to a decades-long failure to adequately fund infrastructure, technology and staffing," said Marszalek. "The Veterans Independent Budget offers thoughtful recommendations to guarantee that the VA receives the full funding it requires to prevent future budget shortfalls, which would jeopardize veterans' care and place a financial strain on the benefits many depend on to make ends meet."

Throughout the year, DAV and VFW legislative staff work collectively to advance shared priorities, such as the VIB, while also pursuing independent legislative and policy efforts on behalf of their members and the broader veteran community. The two VSOs will present the VIB to both House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees staff during scheduled briefings in the month of February.

"We look forward to sharing our insights with VA leaders and Capitol Hill to ensure VA has the resources it needs to serve an ever-changing veteran population," said Gallucci.

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About DAV: DAV is dedicated to ensuring our promise is kept to America's veterans. DAV does this by helping veterans and their families access the full range of benefits available to them, fighting for the interests of America's injured heroes on Capitol Hill, providing employment resources to veterans and their families, offering programs and services to empower them, and educating the public about the great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life. A nonprofit organization with nearly 1 million members, DAV was founded in 1920 and chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1932. Learn more at dav.org.

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.