THE CALIFORNIA VETERAN
EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS
INSIDE THE ISSUE
MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER
PAGE 2
#STILLSERVING
CHRIS-VFW POST 1924
PAGE 7
VFW DAY OF SERVICE FAQ
PAGE 8
VFW 125 YEAR OF SERVICE
PAGE 9
MILES FOR MILITARY
PAGE 11
VFWCA ANNOUNCES
STATEWIDE WINNER OF VOICE OF DEMOCRACY SCHOLARSHIP
PAGE 12
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF STATE ADJUTANT/ QUARTERMASTER RODGER MEIER
PAGE 16
2025 KEY DATES & EVENTS
PAGE 18
SOCIAL MEDIA CORNER
PAGE 23
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!
MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER
“AT THE START OF EACH NEW YEAR, WE ALL SET PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GOALS. OUR DEPARTMENT IS NO DIFFERENT. WHILE CHANGE IS INEVITABLE, WE TRANSITION FROM 2024 INTO 2025 WITH GREAT MOMENTUM. THE SUCCESSES OF THE PAST YEAR HAVE SET US ON A PATH OF CONTINUED ACHIEVEMENT, AND I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT TOGETHER, WE WILL KEEP PUSHING FORWARD.”
-Deb Johnson, State Commander
Dear Comrades,
With the coming of a new year, change is occurring within our department. While we look forward to the future, we must first acknowledge the deep loss we have experienced. We are all devastated by the passing of Rodger, a dedicated comrade who served our department with distinction. When we lost our previous quartermaster, Rodger stepped up, embracing the role with unwavering commitment and excellence. His contributions to our organization were invaluable, and his legacy will not be forgotten. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fellow comrades.
With this transition, we welcome new leadership into key roles. Andrew "Skip" Miller has been elected as our new Quartermaster. An Army veteran and member of Post 8254, Skip brings strong dedication and experience to the position. Additionally, we are pleased to introduce Patricia Werner who was appointed as our new Adjutant. Patricia, also an Army veteran, is a proud member of Post 52. We look forward to working with both Skip and Patricia as they help guide our department forward.
As we enter the final four months of our program year, we reflect on the many accomplishments we have achieved together. Our peer-led training programs have been highly successful, equipping our members with essential skills and resources. Our membership numbers have remained steady throughout the year, and we are proud to be ranked #8 in the nation. With inspections now behind us, we turn our attention to upcoming elections and are eager to see how many of our posts and
WINTER 2024
districts can achieve All-State and All-American status.
Additionally, our National Legislative Committee is preparing to travel to Washington, D.C., where members of our department will meet with Congress to advocate for our legislative priorities. By the time this message is published, these important discussions will have taken place, further reinforcing our commitment to veteran advocacy at the national level.
As we move into March, we are excited to once again launch the “March Membership Madness” campaign. This special initiative offers annual members an incredible opportunity: anyone who renews their dues in March or April will have their next year’s dues (2026) covered by the department—effectively receiving two years for the price of one! This is a fantastic way to encourage renewals and ensure our continued strength as an organization.
At the start of each new year, we all set personal and professional goals. Our department is no different. While change is inevitable, we transition from 2024 into 2025 with great momentum. The successes of the past year have set us on a path of continued achievement, and I have no doubt that together, we will keep pushing forward.
Let’s embrace the opportunities ahead, support one another, and remain steadfast in our mission. The future is bright, and I am honored to serve alongside each and every one of you.
In Comradeship, Deb Johnson State Commander
STATE COMMANDER
Deb Johnson
I’d like to start by saying congratulations to all the winners of our VFW Scholarship and recognition programs. The Patriot’s Pen is a writing essay contest. The Voice of Democracy is a verbal essay contest. The Teacher of the Year recognizes unique educators at the elementary, junior high and senior high school levels. Our public servant recognition program selects from a Police officer, Emergency Medical Technician, and a Firefighter.
These programs all highlight the communities in which VFW members play a part in every day. The VFW chooses to reward our essay participants with recognition and a monetary contribution to go hopefully towards higher learning for their future. The recognition programs which highlight the importance of the selectee’s contribution to their communities and more so to their fellow man is something that helps teach all of us a very important lesson in the roles and actions our neighbors, our fellow citizens provide very selflessly in many occasions. These are also the people we call for HELP! As a Veteran’s organization we know exactly how important it is to answer the call for help, we also
understand how fostering a better understanding of our democracy and its principles thru our essay programs can lead to cooperation and unity of all communities and its citizens.
We veteran’s have always been a part of “the” community but we have struggled to understand our role in those communities because we were trained to do a job no one should have do and then we have to cope with the results of doing that job. This extreme experience of war sometimes causes our community experience to be one of seclusion and very limited interaction or a community of one. But when we bring in the other members of “the” community, we find the help to break out of our communities of one and we reintegrate into the community that we never really left. I say these things to highlight the incredible partnerships that await all our veterans and the many more resources to find help in many things but most importantly, Our Mission to support Veterans AND their families. Because after all, are we not all family?
Looking forward to the future, David Kuta Senior Vice Commander
“[THE] EXTREME EXPERIENCE OF WAR SOMETIMES CAUSES OUR COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE TO BE ONE OF SECLUSION AND VERY LIMITED INTERACTION OR A COMMUNITY OF ONE. BUT WHEN WE BRING IN THE OTHER MEMBERS OF “THE” COMMUNITY, WE FIND THE HELP TO BREAK OUT OF OUR COMMUNITIES OF ONE AND WE REINTEGRATE INTO THE COMMUNITY THAT WE NEVER REALLY LEFT.”
-David Kuta, Senior Vice Commander
SENIOR VICE COMMANDER
David Kuta
JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER
Paula Jansen
“FEBRUARY AND MARCH ARE THE TIME TO REVIEW THE BY-LAWS AND THE MANUAL OF PROCEDURE ON HOLDING ELECTIONS BOTH FOR OFFICERS AND DELEGATES. DOING THINGS RIGHT NOW AFFECTS NEXT YEAR’S INSPECTIONS, SO LET’S SET THE NEXT TEAM UP FOR SUCCESS.”
-Paula Jansen, Junior Vice Commander
Here we are in February already, and we still have a lot of work to accomplish. With the passing of our A/Q Rodger, we will have a few things that need to get changed over at Department, and we are working hard to make that all happen in a timely manner. We will move forward and keep the mission going. He will be hard to replace. If you can, please join us for his service on April 5th, 2025. Information regarding the service is on the Department website.
February and March are the time to review the by-laws and the manual of procedure on holding elections both for officers and delegates. Doing things right now affects next year’s inspections, so let’s set the next team up for success. As I stated at the CofA, you will see forms become interactive under members only. One of the key things to get done before that happens is to make sure personal information is up to date in OMS. Everyone from the top down will need the correct contact information for the next year. Soon you all will get dues letters from Department, please look out for these and if you don’t get it by the end of April, send an email to info@vfwca.org requesting a copy. We are working on the Good Standing Delegate Report to help the districts track up to convention. We are hoping this will alleviate some frustration when checking in at convention.
March and April will be “March Madness.” The Flyer will be released very soon, if not already by the time this gets published. All the information you need is on the flyer. Send the flyer to all your unpaids, talk about it in your Post, and display it in your Post. We are within reach of making 102%. If every post can get 12 members we will make it, let’s finish strong just like we started.
As May approaches, start your planning for Memorial Day. One of the first things on the list is getting poppies ordered. Don’t wait, the orders typically take a little longer just before the holiday. Look at who your guest speaker will be, invite local dignitaries, and publicize your event. When your event is done, do your reports.
A notice was sent out by Lynn Rolf, VMS donations ($125) can only be made on VFW.org. Requirements for community service reports are one a quarter for national. The block will be red until one is submitted each quarter through vfwca. org; when approved the report will be transmitted to national and update that dashboard. Don’t forget about Day of Service (#stillserving): the event must take place in the month of May. Events will need to be registered on the VFW still serving website and a report submitted on vfwca.org once the event is completed. Please put Day of Service in the description section in front of your write-up. If you should have any questions, please reach out.
Paula Jansen Junior Vice Commander Jansen@vfwca.org
Chris VFW Post 1924
WHERE DID YOU SERVE AND WHAT DID YOU DO?
I served in Operations: Restore Hope – Somalia, Continue Hope – Somalia, Distant Runner – Rwanda, Southern Watch & Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan, and Iraqi Freedom. I was in communications as a U.S. Marine.
TELL US HOW YOUR DOG IS HELPING YOU CONTINUE #STILLSERVING IN YOUR COMMUNITY.
My Service Dog “Mattis” has allowed me to be comfortable in my own skin again. He has allowed me to get into the community and not be afraid and gives me a battle buddy no matter where I go or what I am doing. I have seen the worst in humanity through my multiple deployments, the things I have seen made me question humanity and I had a very skeptical outlook on everyone I met. Mattis assists me with seeing the best in people. Those that treat Mattis with love and respect allows me to do the same to them. Which in turn allows me to relax and enjoy life. He alerts me prior to a Panic or Anxiety attack. Before Mattis I did not trust anyone, I would not go out in public unless it was absolutely necessary. Mattis saved my Life, if not for him and 5 years of EMDR Therapy, I would not be here today.
WHY DO YOU DO IT?
To support my Brothers and Sisters that have or are struggled like I have, and to fight for the rights and benefits we have earned. Active Military and Veterans seem to get forgotten by society and todays society truly does not understand the sacrifices we have made so they can say and do the things they do without persecution. Mattis and I have been very involved in the community not just as members of the VFW, we also sit on the Board of Directors for the Chamber of Commerce representing VFW Post 1924.
Source: https://todaysvfw.org/our-stories/?story=chris-14
“MY SERVICE DOG “MATTIS” HAS ALLOWED ME TO BE COMFORTABLE IN MY OWN SKIN AGAIN. HE HAS ALLOWED ME TO GET INTO THE COMMUNITY AND NOT BE AFRAID AND GIVES ME A BATTLE BUDDY NO MATTER WHERE I GO OR WHAT I AM DOING.”
-Chris
VFW DAY OF SERVICE FAQ
What is the VFW Day of Service?
The VFW Day of Service is a day set aside for veteran-led local community service events. It is an outgrowth of the VFW’s #StillServing initiative that since 2020 has brought recognition to how much U.S. military veterans continue to serve in their communities after they take off their uniform.
Why VFW Day of Service?
By concentrating veteran-led community service projects on this day, and throughout the month of May, the VFW intends to bring focus to the role veterans play in the wellbeing of their communities.
When is the VFW Day of Service?
VFW Day of Service is on the first Saturday in May. On May 3, 2025, the VFW will kickoff of the veteran-led community service projects that will take place throughout the month of May.
A VFW Day of Service community service event can be on any day in May?
Much as Veterans Day commemorations take place throughout the month of November, the VFW Day of Service will occur on the first Saturday in May – May 3 for 2025 –kicking off a full month of veteran-led community service projects that make a Difference.
Why isn’t the VFW Day of Service on Veterans Day?
VFW Day of Service is a new initiative with a unique focus on veteran-led community service. The choice of a Saturday, and the time of year, offers a greater opportunity for involvement of the whole family, other organizations and members of the community.
Who can participate in the VFW Day of Service?
Anyone. If you are not a VFW Post member or veteran, we can help you connect with one. The more we work together, the greater the benefit to our local community.
Do you have to sign up for the VFW Day of Service?
The VFW does ask that VFW members, all veterans and others visit
VFWDayofService.org to register their event and/or find a local event to join and see what veterans around the country are doing to make a difference.
What type of events can be included in the VFW Day of Service?
VFW Day of Service events are community service focused, so whatever Day of Service volunteers identify as a community need and their work to meet it qualifies. The goal is for these events to be in addition to your regular plans, as well as something that fellow veterans can be invited to take part.
“Buddy”® Poppy, recruiting and events which raise monetary donations do not qualify as a Day of Service event.
Some examples of community services events include:
• Drives – food, personal hygiene products, diapers
• Home repair
• Highway clean up
• Street / park / cemetery / vacant lot clean up
• Health fairs
• Back pack / snack
• Houseless to home support
• Playground rehab / installation
• Accessibility initiatives
Can my Post’s Day of Service event help us achieve All-American?
Absolutely! Simply log your hours into your state community service reporting system to ensure you get credit for your impact.
For more information, visit: https://todaysvfw.org/vfw-day-of-service/
This year the VFW enters its 125th year of service to America’s veterans. We are honoring the impacts and the achievements that will continue to positively impact the lives of all future generations of veterans, forever.
WE ARE CELEBRATING THE LEGACY.
For well over a century, the Veterans of Foreign Wars has carried the torch for veterans. Every year, every battle, fighting for what veterans have earned. For justice, for remembrance, for community…for country.
There are multiple ways for individuals, posts, and communities to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the VFW. Through Community Service Post Programs, merchandise, membership drives, and donations, the VFW is celebrating the legacy of the nation’s leading veterans service organization in the fight to better the lives of all those who’ve worn the uniform of the United States military.
Learn more and get involved at: https://vfw125.org/
NEW NON-PROFIT MILES FOR MILITARY BRINGS JUNIOR ENLISTED HOME FOR MOMENTS THAT MATTER
A Marine mom from New England has launched a nonprofit that flies active-duty junior enlisted home for holidays, weddings, and other moments that matter. Miles for Military buys plane tickets that some enlisted personnel might not be able to afford in return for their volunteering at a charity of their choosing, and the organization is looking to the Veterans community for support as it ramps up operations for 2025.
After sending nearly 50 servicemen and women on leave to hometowns across the United States in 2024, Miles for Military founder Maureen Byrne and the non-profit’s team are hoping to bring hundreds of junior enlisted stationed across the country home for leaves in the new year.
“Just in December, we were able to send soldiers, sailors, and Marines stationed at Cherry Point, Lejeune, and Fort Liberty home to Arizona, California, Michigan, the Pacific Northwest, New England, Utah, Montana, and the great State of Texas,” Byrne said. “One of our earliest flights brought a young sailor home to meet a newborn sister.”
Byrne was motivated to start Miles for Military when, after she flew her own son home from Camp Lejeune for leaves during his USMC service, he told her that many of his fellow Marines and their families were unable to afford that same benefit. “I was shocked at how expensive the tickets were to fly my son home for the holidays when he was stationed at Camp Lejeune,” the Massachusetts native said. “He told me that most of his friends and their families could not afford flights, and that the barracks were full on holidays.”
That is when the idea to found www.milesformilitary.org took hold. “These young people sacrifice so much to serve this country,” Byrne said. “Donations fund flights. Flights sustain family bonds and morale. It just feels like the right thing to do.”
Ranks from E-1 up to E-4 earn their flights home by doing 25 hours of charity work at non-profit organizations near their base, according to former USMC Captain Tom Davin, a member of the 501 (c) 3 non-profit’s board of directors. “We have had 100 men and women fulfill the volunteer obligations. As they secure leave, we book their flights.”
Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. (Ret.) Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., and Army Major Gen. (Ret.) Clayton M. Hutmacher serve on the organization’s board of advisors. Ramon “CZ” Colon-Lopez, a retired USAF Special Forces NCO who eventually served as Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the highest enlisted rank in the US Armed Forces, serves on the Board of Directors.
“This is what a ‘whole of nation’ approach looks like–they defend our freedoms, and we find ways to support them,” SEAC ColonLopez said.
Marine Pfc Michael Maselli got a proper welcome home from his mother at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on December 21, 2024. Pfc Maselli traded 25 hours of charity service work near his North Carolina base for a flight home from www.milesformilitary.org - an emerging charity reaching out to Veterans nationwide for support.
Each star on the map represents a media outlet that covered a service member's homecoming, made possible by Miles for Military.
VFWCA ANNOUNCES STATEWIDE
WINNER OF VOICE OF DEMOCRACY SCHOLARSHIP
Michael Hu, an eleventh grader from San Jose, California, was named the first-place winner of the California statewide Voice of Democracy Scholarship Program by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California. He is sponsored by Post 3982 in District 12. Michael will continue to compete at the national level for a $35,000 scholarship for higher education at an American university, college or vocational/technical school. He will be escorted to the national finals by VFW Department of California State Commander Deb Johnson and VFW Auxiliary Department of California State President Sharonda Lewis.
The Voice of Democracy program requires the entrants to write and record a three-to-five-minute speech on a patriotic theme. This year’s theme is “Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision?" and students from all over the world entered the program for a chance to win various scholarships. Winners were determined at multiple levels, before making their way to the state finals. Each state will then submit its finalist, and a national winner will be awarded this spring. About 25,000 high school students enter the competition nationally.
The scholarship winner was announced during the annual Voice of Democracy Banquet, alongside the winner of the Patriots Pen program. Finalists from each district were invited with their families to attend the banquet and connect with VFWCA members and leadership. Banquet speakers included State Commander Deb Johnson, State Auxiliary President Sharonda Lewis, and National Commander Al Lipphardt.
Michael’s audio essay explored America’s sense of resilience and success at selfreflecting and self-correcting. He discussed hope for the future alongside the belief that America’s forefathers would be proud of the country we are today.
“The Voice of Democracy Program is an incredible opportunity to connect with the future leaders of our country. It is a chance to inspire our youth to reflect on our nation to think about where we have been, where we are now, and where we are going,” said VFWCA State Commander, Deb Johnson, “We are proud to encourage the next generation of leaders to see the wisdom of their ancestors and past generations in order to imagine the future they want to build.”
The winner of the Department of California’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest was also recognized during the Voice of Democracy Banquet. Siddharth Chaudhry, who attends eighth grade in San Ramon, was awarded the scholarship. He was sponsored by Post 75 in District 10.
To learn more about these programs, please visit our website: https://vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74120
IN MEMORIAM
Honoring the Life and Legacy of State Adjutant/Quartermaster Rodger Meier
The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California, mourns the passing of our dedicated State Adjutant/Quartermaster, Rodger Meier. A steadfast advocate for veterans and a pillar of our organization, Rodger’s unwavering commitment to the VFW and his fellow comrades has left a lasting impact on the veteran community across California.
Rodger’s journey of service began in May 1981 when he joined the North Dakota National Guard. That summer, he attended Basic Training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, before transferring to the California Army National Guard. He was assigned to the 270th Military Police Company in Sacramento, where he dedicated over a decade of his life to military service. His tenure with the 270th saw him deploy to Desert Storm in January 1991, participate in three Team Spirit exercises in South Korea, and answer the call to serve during the Rodney King riots in Los Angeles.
REST IN PEACE, COMRADE MEIER. YOUR MISSION IS COMPLETE, BUT YOUR IMPACT WILL ENDURE FOREVER.
Beyond his military career, Rodger’s dedication to public service extended into the field of criminal justice. After attending college, he joined the California Department of Corrections as a Correctional Officer at Folsom State Prison before transferring to High Desert State Prison as a Correctional Counselor. His leadership and expertise led to his appointment as Deputy Director of the Division of Rehabilitative Programs by Governor Jerry Brown, a role he held from 2013 to 2015. His work within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation reflected his deep-seated belief in justice, rehabilitation, and the importance of service beyond the battlefield.
Rodger’s involvement with the VFW began in a way that speaks to the heart of our mission—at a Buddy Poppy event outside a Rancho Cordova Walmart. From that moment, he became a steadfast advocate for veterans, joining VFW Post 10125 and serving as Post Adjutant before taking on the role of Post Quartermaster. His leadership and dedication led to his appointment as State Adjutant in 2019, a position he used to propel the VFW Department of California forward. Rodger was passionate about strengthening the organization, often emphasizing that California should be setting the standard for other Departments rather than following them. His commitment to supporting veterans and fostering camaraderie within the VFW was evident in every initiative he championed.
Rodger truly embodied the VFW’s motto: “No one does more for veterans.” His tireless efforts to uplift and assist his fellow comrades will not be forgotten. His passing is a profound loss, not only to the VFW but to all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.
We extend our deepest condolences to Rodger’s family, friends, and fellow veterans. While we grieve his loss, we also honor his extraordinary life of service, sacrifice, and dedication. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we uphold the values he so passionately defended.
Posts Who Have Reached Membership Goal
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING POSTS FOR REACHING THE MEMBERSHIP GOAL OF 102% OR HIGHER.
DISTRICT 1:
Post 2082
Post 2422
Post 3788
Post 11387
DISTRICT 2:
Post 2085
Post 6024
Post 10489
DISTRICT 3:
Post 1873
Post 4089
Post 4379
Post 6476
Post 8547
Post 8737
DISTRICT 4:
Post 1622
Post 9148
DISTRICT 5:
Post 2143
Post 5551
Post 9415
DISTRICT 6:
Post 2814
Post 7216
Post 9791
Post 10965
Post 11012
DISTRICT 7:
Post 2043
Post 8310
Post 9637
DISTRICT 8:
Post 275 Post 1932 Post 2381
Post 3327
Post 7888
DISTRICT 9:
Post 2002
Post 2487
Post 2587
Post 5057
Post 8743
Post 9896
DISTRICT 10:
Post 75
Post 2727
Post 8063
Post 10789
DISTRICT 11:
Post 8620
Post 10218
DISTRICT 12:
Post 4103
Post 6309
Post 6849
Post 7263
DISTRICT 13:
Post 9679
DISTRICT 14:
Post 6353
DISTRICT 15:
Post 4095
Post 9602
DISTRICT 16:
Post 1943
Post 3237
Post 7244
DISTRICT 17:
Post 2073
Post 6604
Post 12215
January 1
2025 KEY DATES & EVENTS
January 30 (3rd Monday)
January 20
January 27
January 24
January 25
February
February 15
February 17 (3rd Monday)
February 28
March
March 1-5
March 2-6
March 24
March 25
March 29
March 31
April
April 5
April 10–13
April 15
April 20
May
May
May 1
May 7
May 8
May 11
May 26 (Last Monday)
June
June
June 6
June 12
June 14
June 15
June 18–22
June 28
New Year’s Day
MLK Jr. Day
VFWCA Birthday
Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord in 1973
Voice of Democracy Banquet
Council of Administration
Black History Month
Sinking of U.S.S. Maine, 1898
Presidents’ Day
Liberation of Kuwait Operation Desert Storm 1991
Women’s History Month
National Voice of Democracy Events
National Legislative Conference
Start of Kosovo Campaign 1999
Medal of Honor Day
National Vietnam War Veterans Day
End of Operation Restore Hope Somalia 1995
Month of the Military Child
Council of Administration
Senior Vice Commanders Training
Tax Day
Easter Sunday
Mental Health Awareness Month
Asian Pacific American Heritage month
Loyalty Day, annually
Military Spouse Appreciation Day
VE Day: German unconditional surrender signed, 1945
Mother’s Day
Memorial Day
PTSD Awareness Month
LGBTQ+ Pride Month
D Day: Allied invasion of Europe, 1944
Women Veterans Day
Flag Day, Army Birthday
Father’s Day
California State Convention
VFW National Home 100th Anniversary Celebration
July 4
July 27
August 4
August 9–14
August 22–25
August 31
September
September
Independence Day
Signing of the Korean Armistice in 1953
Coast Guard Birthday
National Convention
Commander in Chief’s Homecoming
End of Operation Iraqi Freedom 2010
National Suicide Prevention Month
National Service Dog Month
September 1 (1st Monday) Labor Day
September 2
September 8–11
September 11
September 15–October 15
September 17
VJ Day: Japan surrendered, 1945, ending World War II fighting
Fall Legislative Committee Meeting
Patriot's Day
Hispanic Heritage Month
Citizenship Day / Constitution Day
September 18 Air Force Birthday
September 19
National Budget & Finance Committee Meeting
September 19 (3rd Friday) POW MIA Recognition Day
September 20–21
September 25–28
September 29
October 2–5
October 9
October 13
October 13
October 16–19
November
November 4
November 10
November 11
November 27 (4th Thursday)
December 7
December 13
December 20
December 24
December 25
December 31
National Council of Administration Meeting
Commander-in-Chief’s Homecoming
VFW Day
Department Adjutant / Quartermaster Training
Start of Operation Enduring Freedom -Afghanistan 2001
Navy Birthday
Columbus Day
Junior Vice Commanders Training
American Indian Heritage Month
Election Day
Marine Corps Birthday
Signing World War I Armistice, 1918, Veterans Day
Thanksgiving
Pearl Harbor Day
National Guard Birthday
Space Force Birthday
Christmas Eve
Christmas Day
New Year’s Eve
VETERANS FREEBIES OR DISCOUNTS
The California Veteran Magazine is excited to be including valuable information on how our readers can access an array of exclusive Veteran Discount programs. From a variety of companies, these discounts are a small token of appreciation for your service. Stay tuned for details on how you can take advantage of these special offers, designed to support you in your daily life and beyond.
The VFWCA is not affiliated with these companies, and has not been paid for their inclusion in any list or article.
LULULEMON:
Do you need new athletic apparel for the new year or want to try a new brand? Lululemon offers Veterans 15% off all Lululemon activewear and accessories. This program honors Veterans for all they have done to keep their country safe. To participate in this program, veterans can follow these simple steps:
1. Verify Eligibility: Visit the Veteran Discount section on the Lululemon website and select “Get Verified”, once verified you will receive an email confirmation.
2. Choose Your Lululemon Apparel: Select your desired products to use your discount at checkout.
3. Enjoy the Savings: 15% off online and in-store purchases.
For more information and to sign up for the Veteran’s discount program at Lululemon, please visit Lululemon. com and navigate to the verify your eligibility section.
BRUMATE:
Struggling to stay hydrated, keep your drinks cold, or need a reliable cooler? We’ve got you covered! With BruMate’s “Real Heroes Deserve Real Savings” program, veterans can enjoy a 15% discount on their entire order as a token of gratitude for your service. To claim this offer, follow these easy steps:
1. Verify Eligibility: Visit the BruMate website, scroll down to the bottom of the home page, select “Frontline Discount” and verify your veteran status.
2. Select Your BruMate Products: Select your desired drinkware, coolers, etc. to use your discount at checkout.
3. Enjoy the Savings: 15% off all purchases.
For more information and to sign up for the Veteran’s discount program at BruMate, please visit BruMate.com and navigate to the “Frontline Discount section.”
APPLE:
The Apple Veterans Purchase Program is a way to honor your service with a 10% discount on Apple products and accessories. To take advantage of this offer, veterans can follow these simple steps:
1. Verify Eligibility: Visit the Apple website, scroll down to the bottom of the home page, select “Shop for Veterans and Military” and select “Verify with ID.ME.”
2. Sign In or Create ID.me Profile: Continue to sign in.
3. Enjoy the Savings: 10% off Apple products and accessories.
For more information and to sign up for the Veterans discount program at Apple, please visit Apple.com and navigate to the “Shop for Veterans and Military section.”
THE VALUE OF A “RECAP POST”
Social media pages are an excellent tool for sharing information about events and programs before they happen. But they are also a great place for sharing photos or summaries of the event in the days that follow.
HOW TO DO A “RECAP POST”
• Take photos and short videos during an event
• Note any important attendees
• Remember significant moments during the event
• Following the event, share the photos and videos with a short description of the event
• Make sure to thank the attendees and encourage them to stay involved by following your page and sharing your content
WHERE TO SHARE “RECAP POSTS”
This type of content can be shared across your social media pages, such as:
• Threads
• And more!
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
Sharing “recap posts” following an event is important for a variety of reasons. This includes:
• Reminding your followers of the event you held
• Encouraging people to look at photos and share photos of themselves
• Inspiring other Posts to hold similar events
• Attracting additional attention to an event to promote the work of your Post
Active and engaging social media pages are crucial for reaching your members and your community to highlight all of the incredible work you are doing.
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.
THE CALIFORNIA VETERAN
