The California Veteran Magazine - Fall 2023

THE CALIFORNIA VETERAN

EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS

WE ARE THE VFW

PAGE 10

INTERVIEW WITH DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL HOME

PAGE 17

EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS

INSIDE THE ISSUE

A MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER

PAGE 2

2023 STATE CONVENTION

PAGE 6

2023 NATIONAL CONVENTION

PAGE 8

WE ARE THE VFW

PAGE 10

VFW IN THE NEWS

PAGE 14

INTERVIEW WITH DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL HOME

PAGE 17

VOICE OF DEMOCRACY ENTRY FORM

PAGE 14

PATRIOT’S PEN ENTRY FORM

PAGE 14

SOCIAL MEDIA CORNER

PAGE 28

THE CALIFORNIA VETERAN IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES, DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA

It is an online magazine published four times a year to keep our members informed about important news affecting the VFW and veterans.

Click here to Subscribe to our Mailing List to Receive Quarterly Issues of the California Veteran Magazine!

A MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER

Comrades, Brothers and Sisters, Congratulations on ending the Membership Year 2022 – 2023 on a high note. VFWCA finished the 2023 year with 57,048 members, which is an increase of 832 from the previous membership 2022 total of 55,216 members. Congratulations to the entire VFWCA team for making this happen and reaching the mark of 101.59%. Now, we are at the beginning of a brand new membership year, 20232024, with the goal of reaching 102%. That is an increase of 1,149 for our year, and that is a mark that we shall attain. I’ve personally seen how engaged and focused you all are when talking to prospective members and their families.

“AS WE START THIS JOURNEY DURING THIS 2023 – 2024 YEAR, WE ARE “THE TEAM OF WE”–ONE VETERAN, ONE TEAM, ONE VFW. WE HAVE NEW POST COMMANDERS, NEW DISTRICT COMMANDERS, NEW CHAIRMAN, AND NEW OFFICERS AT EVERY LEVEL. WORK WITH EACH OTHER, HELP DEVELOP AND MENTOR ONE ANOTHER, AND SHARE IDEAS.”

-Tim Bryant, State Commander

Our Membership Chairman, Doug Scholl, has already developed a Master Membership Plan for the Department, in which he provided to every District the dates, locations, and events, such as Airshows, Fleet Weeks, Comic Cons, County Fairs, and Gun Shows throughout this great Department.

Coming August 1-31, 2023 there will be the “Convert your Annual Membership to Life Program.” Department has set aside $35,000

to provide those annual members the opportunity to upgrade to life membership. The members would pay half of the life membership, based on their age, and the Department would match it. This is on a first come first serve basis– once the money is gone, it’s gone. We also have the Post 9/11 membership program, which provides a free annual membership opportunity for those service members who were part of Operations Inherent Resolve, Iraqi Freedom, and other conflicts which occurred after the 9/11 attacks. There is also the Purple Heart Program where any Veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart would receive a free annual membership.

We also have agreed on the new enhancements to the Department Inspection Program. We have recruited Department Deputy Inspectors that will work with the Deputy Chief of Staff North Comrade Cearley, Past Department Inspector, Deputy Chief of Staff Central Comrade Wayne Wright, Past District 7 Commander and Deputy Chief South PDC Dale Smith. Additionally, along with each District Commanders and the Department, Chief of Staff and PDC Dusty Napier will conduct the inspection of each Post. These Department Deputy Inspectors will conduct a comprehensive inspection of each Post (using the approved Inspections reports), identify any discrepancies as well as best practices, and provide a get-well plan for those Posts who obtain write-ups. They will work with each Post to correct discrepancies to ensure they are in compliance with State,

STATE COMMANDER Tim Bryant

Federal laws, and applicable VFW policies. Bottom Line: The “Team of We” is fully focused on providing the best possible service, compassion, and guidance to those Posts who may have discrepancies, to make them whole, healthy, and successful.

Finally, as we start this journey during this 2023 – 2024 year, we are “The Team of We”– One Veteran, One Team, One VFW. We have new Post Commanders, new District Commanders, new Chairman, and new Officers at every level. Work with each other, help develop and mentor one another, and share ideas. Also, at the same time, work to solve issues

and concerns at the lowest level. Not every issue needs to rise to the Department level, try to solve them at the lowest level. Use the resources that are available to you at your Post or District. Your Deputy Chiefs of Staff are available to discuss and share things with.

In closing– enjoy, have fun, engage with your Auxiliaries, Riders, and MC’s in your community. Make this year yours, for your team and the VFW, make it a year to remember, the TEAM OF WE!

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support as I was elected Senior Vice Commander at the State Convention in June. I would also like to thank all of those who attended the training we held at Convention. We heard a lot of great feedback and also recognize some members are frustrated that our training was held in the middle of the week. It is important for you to know that we hope to build a comprehensive training program during our weekly zoom calls, Schools of Instruction, and Council of Administration meetings. Stay informed by reading the weekly bulletins that are sent via email, or posted on our website. There are several training modules on the Department and National websites and I encourage you to look through them, especially if you are a newly elected or appointed officer of your post or district.

In July, many of us attended the National Convention in Phoenix, and we are eager to see the changes that were voted on by our membership. Make sure that you order a copy of the National Bylaws and Manual of Procedure (you can pre-order for delivery when it is published). The National Bylaws is one of many of the tools we use no matter the position we hold and the best way to stay current on the rules that govern the organization.

Congratulations to Past Commander Yingling for reaching All American status. This is an honor that is only achieved by the hard work and dedication of our membership. I look forward to Commander Tim Bryant, our “Team of We” and what new initiatives we are introducing this year. If you need assistance, guidance or membership, the line officers of the department are here for you.

SVC Deborah Johnson

SENIOR VICE COMMANDER Deborah Johnson

Tim Bryant Commander, VFWCA

JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER

David Kuta

I am honored to have been voted in by our members and leaders as the Junior Vice Commander for the great State of California for this year. As our Department Commander Tim Bryant says, this is a “Team of We” and I am excited to be part of this team. We will be continuing to build upon the membership momentum that put us over the 100% mark, landing on 101.48%. That outstanding accomplishment was because of the hard work of our members and just illustrates further the “Team of We” concept. I’ve had the privilege of

meeting and talking with many of you about your plans to build upon our past programs and our membership accomplishments. This has helped me see a lot of commitment in the numerous members and leaders of the Department of California Veterans of Foreign Wars and I am confident that Together, we will be a great Team!

As we travel throughout the 17 districts of this state, we see so many posts that are out there spreading the message that we are here to support our veteran community 24/7. These past 3 years have been tough on providing support for our veterans as COVID-19 caused a shutdown of communities. Communities that come together to support our veterans and their families as well as citizens who just need a little help. Today is a time of regrowth and a time to rethink what we do going forward into the bright future. The time of a national shut-down for these communities caused all of us to think a little differently in how we continue to provide services to our veterans and our citizens. Unfortunately, we lost quite a few of our WWII veterans over these past years but thankfully we have their legacies which are preserved through our posts, and we have their mentorship to continue to guide us into the future.

That mentorship shows us that times change but the VFW mission never does. We have to reexamine how we provide the support to our veterans and how we spread that message of “No One Does More For Veterans” to the current conflict veterans and their families. How we show these newer and future veterans that we are here for them and their families, how we are a resource for their use. This is the key to growing and thriving as the premier Veterans service organization. These recent conflict Veterans are

busy making new lives after their time in service to our country. They aren’t looking to waste their valuable time that is taken up with work and family commitments, so we must be a resource, a partner in their lives much like the resources they had when they wore the uniform. I believe If we show them how much we can help and how much we are here for them, they will be here for us. When they have the time to give back to a cause, that cause will be their fellow Veterans. Because they will return the support and caring they received from all of their comrades in the many VFW posts located throughout our great state. We honor the dead by supporting the living! This is using the mentorship of the past to plan our move into the future.

I am very excited for the support and confidence given to me in my new role as a state leader and I thank each of you. We are a team and that means that I will be out there helping provide assistance and guidance to the membership and posts as part of this exciting department leadership team. I want to say that State Commander Tim Bryant, State Sr. Vice Commander Deb Johnson and myself are all committed to ensuring that our members get the training and support they need to continue this critical mission to help all Veterans. This is about all of us coming across the line successful and with accomplishments that allow us to know and say, “We made a Difference”!

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to department or myself if we can help with something that stops you from supporting our Veterans. I look forward to working with all of you over this next year.

Thank you, David Kuta

“WE HAVE TO REEXAMINE HOW WE PROVIDE THE SUPPORT TO OUR VETERANS AND HOW WE SPREAD THAT MESSAGE OF “NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS” TO THE CURRENT CONFLICT VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES. ”

-David Kuta, Junior Vice Commander

2023-2024 State Officers

Tim Bryant Commander Air Force - Post 3000

Rodger Meier Adjutant/Quartermaster Army - Post 10125

Dawn Napier Chief of Staff Navy - Post 9561

John Muller State Judge Advocate Marines - Post 8954

Paula Jansen Surgeon Navy - Post 5867

Frank Correra State Chaplain Air Force - Post 4089

Martin Yingling Immediate State Commander Navy - Post 2805

Buford Maples

Parliamentarian Navy - Post 5985

Dale Smith National Council Member Navy - Post 3783

DISTRICT OFFICERS

Alexis Henshaw District 1 Commander Navy - Post 3783

Deb Johnson

Senior Vice Commander Army - Post 10859

Daniel Jennings District 2 Commander Army - Post 3173

John Hernandez District 3 Commander Marines - Post 4089

Rob Hernandez District 4 Commander Air Force - Post 2828

Michael Croy District 5 Commander Air Force - Post 2924

Charles Cournyea District 6 Commander Army - Post 10859

Larry Ramey District 7 Commander Navy - Post 10049

Ronald L. Wood District 8 Commander Marines - Post 2381

Ron Hardy District 9 Commander Navy - Post 8740

Mark Steinberg District 10 Commander Navy - Post 1525

David Loera District 11 Commander Navy - Post 3208

David Kuta

Junior Vice Commander Army - Post 8358

Steve Curtin District 12 Commander Army - Post 7263

Aaron Rasmusssen District 13 Commander Navy - Post 4748

Jack Napier District 14 Commander Navy - Post 9561

Mike DiGiordano District 15 Commander Air Force - Post 1555

Darrol Prill District 16 Commander Post 1123

Skip Miller District 17 Commander Army - Post 8254

APPOINTED OFFICERS

Shanon Strickler

Department Service Officer Air Force - Post 10125

Jose Garza State Asst. Adjutant/ Quartermaster Navy - Post 12215

Amy Alvarez Capt. Sgt.-at-Arms Marines - Post 4089

2023 VFW State Convention

We had another wonderful State Convention this year! Convention took place June 8-11, 2023 in Orange, California.

Every year, thousands of VFW and Auxiliary delegates gather to represent the organization’s more than 1.5 million combined membership at the weeklong VFW National Convention. While there, our mission is to approve new national priorities to guide our organization as we lobby Congress on issues important to the nation’s veterans, service members and their families.

Convention delegates also elect new leadership, as well as recognize prominent individuals and organizations for their support of veterans and military personnel.

The 124th VFW National Convention was held July 22-27, 2023, at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

We are the VFW

Meet a few of the individuals featured in our VFW recruitment video:

Kayla T. Mitchell is a veteran of the Army where she has served 13 years, and she is currently still serving as First Sergeant. When asked why she wanted to join the VFW, she said “I joined the VFW to extend my military family. Strong community ties are important to a service member and their family, and I couldn’t think of a better place to start with than the VFW.” She noted that her favorite thing about being in the VFW is that you are treated like family as soon as you walk through the doors. Kayla belongs to Post 6604 and enjoys family time and cooking with her kids during her free time.

Donald Currier is currently a Superior Court Judge in Sacramento County. He was in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army National Guard. He served 3 years on active duty as an enlisted Soldier and another 33 years in the Army National Guard. He is a Veteran of Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Donald joined the VFW while serving in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, and his favorite thing about the VFW is meeting other veterans and sharing camaraderie with other members. He is a life member of the VFW and a member of Post 6604 in Folsom. A fun fact about him is that he served at the same time as his son during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2010.

Charlie Schaupp is a veteran of the U.S. Marines where he served for 28 years. He joined the VFW because of the incredible service provided to veterans and the community coupled with strong notions of comradery. His favorite thing about being in the VFW is having a great group of friends that are veterans, and he belongs to Western Yolo Post 7143. Now retired from military service, Charlie pursues farming. A fun fact about him is that his nickname in the Marines was “Pit Bull” because he was loyal but always vicious in a fight.

Baldwin Wong was drafted during the peak of the Vietnam War and served two years with the United States Army from 1970-1972, serving active duty on the 38th Parallel (DMZ), Korea. He didn’t think of joining the VFW until he attended his friend’s father’s funeral in 2005 where the VFW Honor Guard performed a 3-volley salute, and then proceeded to play Taps from a boom-box. As a classically trained trumpet player and a veteran, he was appalled. This Honor Guard unit from Post 8358 needed a live bugler! Weeks later, he joined the VFW Chung Mei Post 8358 and the Post Honor Guard. Baldwin says the most gratifying thing about being a VFW member is “the camaraderie with the members of the VFW who share the same love for our country, and that we are still serving our nation, state, and community.” He currently holds the following positions in the VFW: National Aid-De-Camp, Appointed Bugler for the VFW Department of California, Post Quartermaster, Post Chairman for the VFW Chung Mei Post Service Dog Training Program, and Post Honor Guard Bugler. Baldwin belongs to Post 8358 and is a proud father of three Marines with over 48 years of active-duty time.

Did you honorably serve in a foreign conflict?

Do you still want to serve?

ThenYOU belong as a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

As defenders of freedom, we want to welcome today’s military service members into our ranks to become part of our elite group. At the VFW, our mission is to foster camaraderie among United States veterans while offering important programs and services that support veterans, service members, their families, and our communities. NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS.

Calling all Veterans JOIN THE VFW TODAY!

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is the nation’s largest and oldest major war veterans organization. Founded in 1899, the congressionally-chartered VFW is comprised entirely of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. With more than 1.6 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in 6,200 Posts worldwide, the nonprofit veterans service organization is proud to proclaim “NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS” than the VFW, which is dedicated to veterans’ service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs.

For more information or to join, visit our website at www.vfw.org.

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP

Membership dues paid annually

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Lifetime membership dues paid in one payment*

LIFE MEMBERSHIP Installment Plan

After one initial payment of $45.00 membership dues paid in eleven monthly installments* LIFE

REASONS TO JOIN THE VFW:

• Camaraderie and fellowship that comes with being part of the nation’s largest group of combat veterans

• Opportunity to socialize and perform service with veterans who served on the front line and in support roles

• Receive support during the tough times that can follow military service

• Access assistance for securing VA and State benefits you are entitled to as a veteran

• Utilize resources to help you learn about and secure jobs

• Save money through discounts on numerous insurance and health care plans

• Cut vacation expenses through discounts on travel and other services

• Enjoy knowing other veterans, military personnel and their families

• Help to generate patriotism and troop support through VFW programs

* Prices subject to change. Please contact our office for the most current prices.

• World War II

• Occupational Service

• Korean Service (1950–1954)

• Korea Duty (1955–Present)

• Vietnam Service

• Relax and enjoy life knowing that the VFW has your back on many fronts

QUALIFYING FOREIGN SERVICE:

• Desert Shield/Storm

• Bosnia/Kosovo

• Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary

• Afghanistan (2001–Present)

• Iraq (2003–2011)

• SSBN Deterrent Patrol Insignia

• Expeditionary Operations

• Inherent Resolve (2014–Present)

• Hostile Fire/Imminent Danger Pay

VFW POST 1898 RAISES MONEY TO REPAIR MARTINEZ VA HOSPITAL MOBILITY GOLF CART

VFW Post 1898 Commander, Frank Hurtado and DAV Post 154 Past Commander, Sean Poynter coordinated a fundraising project for the repairs of the transportation golf cart used at the Martinez VA Hospital. The golf cart is crucial for helping thousands of veterans access care. The large VA Hospital Campus can be difficult to travel, and the golf cart allows mobility challenged veterans to get from their vehicles to the clinic offices.

Repairs were expected to cost over $4,000 after the cart broke down. The fundraiser collected money from Various donors, organizations and individuals to cover the cost of repairs.

All Cal Golf and Industrial Vehicles completed the vehicle repairs and the golf cart is back in services helping veterans daily. Organizations that donated to the repair funds will soon have their logos permanently affixed to the repaired cart in appreciation of their donations.

VFW CALIFORNIA 2023 – 2024 MEMBERSHIP BY THE NUMBERS

The Department ended the year with 57,048 members or 101.48%

171 Posts are at 100% or better in membership

9 Districts earned All-American Honors

24 Posts earned All-American Honors

vfwnationalhome.org/

Interview with Director of National Home, Mike Wilson

Q: CAN YOU PLEASE DESCRIBE WHAT THE VFW NATIONAL HOME IS FOR THOSE WHO MAY NOT KNOW?

A: VFW National Home is located in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. It is a community consisting of 42 single family homes occupied by veterans and their families. It includes common areas such as a gym, library, computer and science labs, daycare center, playgrounds, fishing pond, hiking trails and more.

The occupants can live in the homes for free for up to 4 years, while they work through certain issues they are facing, such as reintegration, post-traumatic stress, high unemployment and rehabilitation from battlefield injuries, among others.

The occupants create life goals when they move in to combat the challenges they are facing. They actively strive to reach these goals, working alongside a case manager, during their time of residency at VFW National Home. These goals can include anything from obtaining a better job to creating a healthier family dynamic.

The National Home’s community is open to the families of actively serving military personnel, veterans, and relatives of VFW and VFW Auxiliary members. The family can be one or both parents with one or more children.

(Left) Children enjoying a teamwork activity in the gym at the VFW National Home.

(Below) Renovation of the Pollett House in Eaton Rapids, Michigan.

Q: CALIFORNIA SPONSORS 2 NATIONAL HOMES. WHAT KIND OF IMPACT DO THESE HOMES MAKE?

A: These homes truly make such a significant impact. For many veterans, the transition from military to civilian life can be very challenging, and these homes provide the extra assistance needed to get veterans and their families back on the right track.

After living in the VFW National Home community, we see occupants improve themselves in multiple ways, such as completing degrees, getting better paying jobs, being able to put down healthy down payments on homes, and just becoming happier families in general.

To see more information on the California Homes, visit: https://vfwnationalhome.org/about-us/community/homes/california-1/ https://vfwnationalhome.org/about-us/community/homes/california-2/

California Home #1: Built in 1931

2,874 Square Feet

4 Bed, 2 Bath

California Home #2: Built in 1950

2,456 Square Feet

4 Bed, 3 Bath

Q: THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY IS COMING UP SOON –CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE EVENTS SURROUNDING THIS MILESTONE?

A: We will be celebrating our 100th anniversary on January 7th, 2025. January 7th is the day that the VFW signed the articles of incorporation for the National Home.

On March 9th, 2025, there will be a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony at the newly renovated Pollett House, named after the first family that came to live at the National Home.

On June 28th, 2025, there will be a 100th Birthday Party where the community will come together to celebrate.

Lastly, the VFW National Convention will take place that year (2025) in August in Columbus, Ohio, and there will be a miniature version of the homes on display.

Q: HOW CAN PEOPLE CONTRIBUTE TO THIS CAUSE?

A: Being a 501(c)(3) non-profit, we truly appreciate any support and generosity. There are a variety of ways to contribute, so however you choose to provide support, we greatly thank you. Please visit our website at https://vfwnationalhome.org/you-can-help/ to see all the different ways you can help.

The Veteran and Family Resource Center (VFRC) was officially opened on October 22nd, 2022. This resource center was created to offer veterans and their families opportunities on campus to access resources from the community that they may be eligible for.

A Chewy pin has been created for fundraising efforts in California for the 100th Anniversary celebrations

SPORTS CLIPS VFW SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY

Today’s veterans can face any number of obstacles while furthering their education. Taking advantage of all the benefits you’ve earned and DESERVE shouldn’t be one of them! This is why we have teamed up with Student Veterans of America and Sport Clips Haircuts to provide the assistance you need.

The VFW’s “Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship” provides service members and veterans with the financial assistance they need to complete their educational goals without incurring excessive student loan debt. It’s just another way for us to say “thank you” to those who fought for our freedoms.

SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS:

• Scholarships of up to $5,000 will be awarded to qualified applicants.

• Awarded scholarships are limited to one per family per semester.

• Applications for the fall semester will be accepted Jan. 1 through April 30.

• Applications for the spring semester will be accepted Aug. 1 through Nov. 15.

• Fall semester scholarships will be awarded in August, and spring semester scholarships will be awarded in January.

• Scholarships must be used by the end of the school semester for which the veteran is applying or they will become null and void.

• Scholarships are restricted for tuition and fees only and will be paid directly to accredited schools.

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS MUST:

• Be a citizen of the United States.

• Be retired, honorably discharged, active duty, or a member of the National Guard or Reserve.

• Have completed Basic Training and follow-on training (Advanced Individual Training, technical school, etc.).

• Separated with or currently hold a military rank of E-5 or below.

• Demonstrate a need for financial assistance.

• Participate in, be accepted to or currently enrolled in a VAapproved program or school at an accredited post-secondary institution.

APPLY TODAY!

( https://www.vfw.org/assistance/student-veterans-support)

VOICE OF DEMOCRACY

2023-2024 Theme

“What are the greatest attributes of our Democracy?”

Student Entry Deadline: October 31, 2023

Patriotic Audio Essay Competition Grand Prize: $35,000 Award

What is the Voice of Democracy Program?

Since 1947, the Voice of Democracy has been the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ (VFW’s) premier scholarship program. Each year, nearly 27,000 high school students compete for more than $2 million in scholarships and incentives. Students compete by writing and recording an audio essay on an annual patriotic theme. This year’s theme is, “What are the greatest attributes of our Democracy?”

Why Should I Enter?

Prizes and scholarships can be awarded at the Post, District, state and national level. Department (State) winners receive an all-expense-paid trip to Washington DC, to tour the city, be honored by the VFW and its Auxiliary and receive their portion of $171,000 in national awards, the top scholarship being $35,000.

The Rules

Who can enter?

The Voice of Democracy is open to students in grades 9-12 by the Oct. 31 deadline who are enrolled in a public, private or parochial high school or home study program in the United States, its territories and possessions; or dependents of U.S. military or civilian personnel in overseas schools. Although U.S. citizenship is not required, students must be lawful U.S. permanent residents or have applied for permanent residence (the application for which has not been denied) and intends to become a U.S. citizen at the earliest opportunity allowed by law. Foreign exchange students, students age 20 or over, previous Voice of Democracy first place state winners, GED or Adult Education Students are ineligible.

What do I need to enter?

Record your original 3-5 minute (+ or – 5 second max.) audio essay on a flash drive, or other electronic device. You will submit the recording, typed essay and this completed entry form. Provide these items to your school/group competition or VFW Post for judging. In addition you can submit your emailed entry form, essay, and audio file to the VFW Post upon approval. You must be the sole author of your essay. The recording must be in your own voice and in English. Hearing/speech impaired students should email the Voice of Democracy National Office at youthscholarships@vfw.org for special instructions. No music, singing, poetry or sound effects are allowed. The body of the essay must not identify you in any way, (including, but not limited to your name, school, city, state, race, or national origin) although the recording & typed essay should be labeled with your name, to show ownership.

Where Do I Submit My Entry?

All entries begin at the VFW Post level. The only exception is where schools/classes/youth groups have large numbers of students and wish to conduct their own competition, submitting one winner for each 15 students to the VFW Post. Individual students may submit their entry directly to the Post. Entries sent to VFW National will be returned. One winner for every 15 entries from each Post advances to District and one District winner advances to the state (Department) competition. If you need help finding a participating VFW Post, follow these instructions: First, visit this website vfw.org/FindaPost to “Find A VFW Post.” If you do not have success in finding a Post, or if you have trouble getting in touch with them, you can contact your VFW Department (state) office to see if they can offer any information or assistance. You can visit this link https://www.vfw.org/ ContactUs/ and look for “Find a State Contact” to get your VFW state office’s phone number and email. If you still need assistance, please email us at VFW National Headquarters at youthscholarships@vfw.org

What Is the Deadline for My Entry?

All entries competing at the Post level must be in the hands of that VFW Post by midnight, Oct. 31, 2023. It is the responsibility of the student to meet this deadline by submitting their entry to the proper location by ensuring it is a participating Post.

What Are the Judging Criteria?

Originality is worth 30 points: Treatment of the theme should show imagination and human interest.

Content is worth 35 points:

Clearly express your ideas in an organized manner. Fully develop your theme and use transitions to move smoothly from one idea to another.

Delivery is worth 35 points: Speak in a clear and credible manner.

2023-2024 Official Entry Form Voice of Democracy Competition

Must Be Completed by All Contestants

Name: First, M.I., Last

To Be Completed by the VFW Post

I certify that this student has an authorized entry in our VFW Post Level Voice of Democracy Competition.

Post Commander/Chairperson Signature Post #

VFW Auxiliary President/Chairperson Signature (if applicable) Post Address

School Name, City, State

Teacher’s name and Email (if applicable)

To Be Completed by Student’s Parent/Guardian (Required even if student is 18 or over)

Parent/Guardian Name (Printed)

Parent/Guardian Signature

Parent/Guardian Daytime Phone ( )

Parent/Guardian Email

Participant Agreement for Students Advancing to National Level

If selected as a first-place state winner, I have the consent of my parent/guardian and school to attend the Voice of Democracy National Finals in Washington, D.C. as a guest of the VFW National Organization. In consideration for permission to participate in the National Voice of Democracy Competition (“Competition”) I do hereby, for myself, for my heirs, executors, administrators and assignees, waive, release and discharge all rights and claims which I have or which may hereafter accrue against the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) and/or the Departments (state organizations) of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and their respective officers, agents, successors and assigns from any damages which may be sustained by me in connection with my participation in or association with the Competition and/or arising out of any travel related to the Competition. In the event of sickness, accident or injury in connection with the Competition, I consent to and accept the services of a duly licensed medical, surgical or dental specialist selected on my behalf and for such treatments, as they may deem necessary. I understand that VFW will not be liable for such treatment. I further understand that the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States retains non-exclusive rights to use my audio file, essay, name and likeness in the promotion and execution of the organization’s programs and activities.

I Have Read and Understand the Rules and Participant Agreement

I certify that I am the sole author of the enclosed audio/essay entry and that I have only entered the competition once yearly if otherwise eligible. I understand that if it is found that I have entered any other Post’s competition or used this essay for another VFW competition, I face elimination from the competition and will return any and all prizes or incentives awarded.

No. of students participating

No. of winners advanced to District

Amt. of Post/Aux. scholarship awards $

Amt. of Post/Aux. additional expenses (banquet, pins, etc.) $

To Be Completed by the VFW District

I certify that the student named in the previous section is the duly selected winner of the Voice of Democracy Contest District Competition and is our sole entry into the Departments.

To Be Completed by the VFW Department Chairperson

I certify that the student named in the previous section is the duly selected first-place winner of the Voice of Democracy Department Competition and is our sole entry into the National Judging.

The winner has been will be (check one) notified that they are the first-place Department winner on .

For assistance contact: 816.968.1155

Email: youthscholarships@vfw.org

Local VFW Post Information:

Contact:

Phone: Best Time To Call:

Alternate Contact:

Phone: Best Time To Call:

PATRIOT’S PEN

2023-2024 Theme

“How are you inspired by America?”

Student Entry Deadline: October 31, 2023

Patriotic Written Essay Competition Grand Prize: $5,000 Award

What is the Patriot’s Pen Program?

Conducted nationwide, this VFW-sponsored youth essay competition gives students an opportunity to write essays expressing their views on an annual patriotic theme. We invite you to join the more than 73,000 students who participated last year in this contest.

Why Should I Enter?

Prizes and scholarships can be awarded at the Post, District, State and national level. Department (State) winners receive a portion of $55,000 in national awards. National Winners will receive at least $500. The first-place national award is currently $5,000.

The Internal Revenue Service requires a recipient awarded more than $599 be given Form 1099 identifying the proceeds as taxable income. This may require the winner to provide their social security number.

How Does the Contest Work?

All entries begin at the VFW Post level. The only exception is where schools/classes/youth groups have large numbers of students and wish to conduct their own competition, submitting one winner for each 15 students to the VFW Post. Individual students may submit their entry directly to the Post.

The contest consists of four levels. The first level (entry) is sponsored by VFW Posts. Post winners advance, one for every 15 entries, to the VFW District (regional) level where the one first-place winner is advanced to the VFW Department (state) level. The first-place winner at the Department level is then advanced into the VFW national competition.

Who Can Enter?

Patriot’s Pen is open to 6th, 7th and 8th-grade students enrolled by the Oct. 31 deadline in public, private or parochial schools in the U.S., its territories or its possessions; or dependents of U.S. military or civilian personnel in overseas schools. Home-schooled students also are eligible. Although U.S. citizenship is not required, students must be lawful U.S. permanent residents or have applied for permanent residence (the application which has not been denied) and intends to become a U.S. citizen at the earliest opportunity allowed by law. (Foreign exchange students or former winners that placed in the National contest are ineligible.)

How Do I Get Started?

•Ask a teacher or youth group/club adult leader to supervise the Patriot’s Pen writing contest.

•Contact a participating VFW Post and indicate your interest in participating.

•Establish a contact person who is a member of that VFW Post or its VFW Auxiliary.

•Make sure that your essay is submitted to the VFW Post before the contest deadline of October 31, 2023. You can submit your essay and entry form by email upon the Post’s approval. Entries sent to the VFW National Headquarters directly will be returned.

How Am I Judged?

Knowledge of the theme is worth 30 points: You must show a thorough knowledge of the theme in your work. Demonstrate you have researched the issue extensively.

Theme development is worth 35 points: Answer all relevant facts about the theme such as the who, what, where, when and why. Relate the theme to your own experiences.

Clarity of ideas is worth 35 points: Write your essay in an easy-to-understand format. Leave your reader with a clear understanding of your explanation of the theme.

What Is the Theme?

VFW’s Commander-in-Chief annually chooses the year’s theme. The 2023-2024 theme is:

“How are you inspired by America?”

Deadline Information.

To qualify, all entries must be submitted to a sponsoring VFW Post by midnight October 31, 2023.

Note:

If you need help finding a participating VFW Post, follow these instructions:

First, visit vfw.org/FindaPost to “Find a VFW Post.”

If you don’t have success in finding a Post, or if you have trouble contacting them, you can contact your VFW Department (state) headquarters office to see if they can offer any information or assistance. You can visit vfw.org/contactus to look for “Find a State Contact” to get your VFW state office’s phone number and email.

For assistance contact the VFW National Headquarters at 816.968.1155

Email: youthscholarships@vfw.org

2023-2024 Official Entry Form

Patriot’s Pen Competition

Must Be Completed by All Contestants

Name: First, M.I., Last Address City, State, Zip

To Be Completed by the VFW Post

I certify that this student has an authorized entry in our VFW Post level Patriot’s Pen Competition.

Post Commander/Chairperson Signature Post#

VFW Auxiliary President/Chairperson Signature (If applicable)

Post Address

City, State, Zip

VFW Post Email

No. of participants No. of winners

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yy)

( ) School Name, City, State

Teacher’s name and Email (if applicable)

Grade in SchoolEssay Word Count

To Be Completed by Student’s Parent/Guardian (Required even if student is 18 or over)

Parent/Guardian Name (Printed)

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

Parent/Guardian’s Daytime Phone ( )

Parent/Guardian’s Email

What Are the Rules?

• You must write your own essay.

• All essays should be typed in English with no color or graphics. 300 - 400 words in length (+ or - 5 word max). Every word is counted regardless of length. The essay title (theme) or added footnotes do not contribute to the word count.

• In no way may contestants identify themselves within their essay (including, but not limited to, your name, school, city, state, race or national origin.) Do not put your name on the essay. The entry form is your essays cover sheet. Secure the Official Student Entry Form with a staple or other fastener on top of your essay. Contestants are allowed to enter only once each year if otherwise eligible (one Post competition).

• The essay must be contestant’s original work and a product of the contestant’s own thinking. The approach to the Patriot’s Pen theme should be positive and clearly focused. Poetry is not acceptable. Quotations may be used sparingly if plainly identified wherever used. A contestant’s teacher, counselor or parent may check the essay for punctuation, grammar and/or spelling, but the content must remain the contestant’s. Contestants will be judged on the basis of their essay alone and are not required to present the essay orally. All essays become the property of the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars. The VFW retains non-exclusive rights to the use of your essay and likeness in the promotion and execution of the organization’s programs and activities.

• At any time during the contest additional participant personal information (i.e. SSN, photo, etc.) could be requested by the VFW.

I Have Read and Understand the Contest Rules

Amt. of Post/Aux. scholarships awards $

Amt. of Post/Aux. additional expenses (Banquet, Pins, etc.) $

To Be Completed by the VFW District

I certify that the student named in the previous section is the duly selected winner of the Patriot’s Pen Contest District Competition and is our sole entry into the Department.

To Be Completed by the VFW Department Chairperson

I certify that the student named in the previous section is the duly selected first-place winner of the Patriot’s Pen Department Competition and is our sole entry into the National Judging. Department

The winner has been will be (check one) notified that they are the first-place Department winner on

Local VFW Post Information:

Contact:

Phone: Best Time To Call:

Alternate Contact: Phone: Best Time To Call:

SOCIAL MEDIA CORNER

#VeteranVoices

We want to hear from you, our fellow veterans. Starting this month, we will be sharing stories from our members on the California VFW Facebook page.

STORIES WILL HIGHLIGHT:

• Upcoming Community Events

• Veteran History and Remembrance

• Important Local and National News

• Plus Other Veteran Stories and Photos You Wish to Share

Do you have a story to share? Need a platform to get the word out? Message our Facebook page, @VFWCA today!

Our team will share it with followers using #VeteranVoices.

HOW TO CREATE AN INSTAGRAM REEL

Instagram is a powerful tool for reaching your members and community through visually appealing content. There are multiple ways to present your content. From photos and videos on your story, to posts and reels on your feed. Reels are one of the best ways to reach new audiences through the dedicated reels explore feed.

WHAT IS A REEL?

An Instagram Reel is a full-screen vertical video that is designed to be short, fun, and engaging. Reels are similar to posts on your feed, but they are videos, not photos.

HOW TO CREATE A REEL?

Reels can be recorded in a series of clips, all at once, or created with another app and uploaded as an already complete video.

To create a Reel on Instagram:

1. Click on the “New Post” button on the bottom of the app

2. Select “Reel”

3. Select “Camera” to record clips or select pre-recorded videos from your gallery

4. Customize your video

There are many creative recording and editing tools available to customize your Reel. This includes:

• AR Effects

• Hands-free recording timer and countdown

• Align clips

• Audio

• Speed changes

WHY USE REELS?

Reels have a dedicated explore page on Instagram and they are a great way to reach new audiences through Instagram’s current algorithms.

By using hashtags and trending audio in your videos, people who don’t follow you find your videos. This can help you increase the number of people who see your content.

Learn more about Reels: https://about.instagram.com/blog/ announcements/introducing-instagram-reels-announcement

#TheCaliforniaVeteran #vfwpostpride