The California Veteran Spring 2026

THE

SPRING 2026

CALIFORNIA

VFWCA.ORG

VETERAN

EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS VFWCA ANNOUNCES STATEWIDE WINNER OF VOICE OF DEMOCRACY SCHOLARSHIP PAGE 6

2026 CALENDAR OF KEY DATES & EVENTS PAGE 20

EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS

SPRING 2026

VFWCA.ORG

INSIDE THE ISSUE

A MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER PAGE 2

VFWCA ANNOUNCES STATEWIDE WINNER OF VOICE OF DEMOCRACY SCHOLARSHIP PAGE 6

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT JOSE AYON PAGE 10

VFW DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA APPLAUDS SIGNING OF SB 694 INTO LAW PAGE 12

VFW DAY OF SERVICE PAGE 13

COMBAT TESTED GAMING (CTG) PAGE 15

ELECTION SEASON IS COMING! PAGE 16

VFW ACTION CORPS PAGE 17

VFW FACT SHEET PAGE 18

2026 CALENDAR OF KEY DATES & EVENTS PAGE 20

EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE PAGE 22

VETERANS FREEBIES OR DISCOUNTS PAGE 25

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

SPRING 2026

VFWCA.ORG Comrades and VFWCA family,

STATE COMMANDER David Kuta

The past several months have been busy here at headquarters, with legislative advocacy, membership drives, and trainings. We have had full schedules and busy hands and we expect that momentum to continue, following us through the end of the VFW year and into summer.

It was an honor to join the governor in February and speak in support of SB 694, which was a huge victory for California's Veterans. This landmark legislation is already being used as the foundation by other states to get their own Claim Shark bills passed. As California goes, so goes the Nation!

Our team is motivated and excited going into the 2026 VFW Washington Conference and is looking forward to working with comrades from around the nation to advocate for veterans, servicemembers, and their families.

Every day we get closer and closer to the 100% +1 membership goal.

Posts and individuals around the state

are coming together to engage new members, renew existing members, and connect with our community to build strong, lasting relationships that make a difference in the lives of veterans and their families. I want to thank each and every person who has made an effort to connect with new and returning members to remind them that No One Does More For Veterans. For the latest numbers on our membership goals, and to see shoutouts to individual members for their recruiting efforts, following along on our social media pages.

Lastly, we have had a great session of peer led trainings this quarter. We are coming up on a lot of national trainings for leadership positions and representatives. It is a great time to learn more about the “boots on the ground” work we can do to support each other and our communities.

Thank you, David Kuta Commander VFW Department of California

“OUR TEAM IS MOTIVATED AND EXCITED GOING INTO THE 2026 VFW WASHINGTON CONFERENCE AND IS LOOKING FORWARD TO WORKING WITH COMRADES FROM AROUND THE NATION TO ADVOCATE FOR VETERANS, SERVICEMEMBERS, AND THEIR FAMILIES” -David Kuta, State Commander

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Hello Everyone, We are at the point in the year where we have completed many of our annual programs. Thank you to all the chairmen who have worked to complete programs thus far. We are having a great year. For our ongoing programs, such as membership, community service, and veterans' assistance, we need to keep the press until the end of June. I have a few notes and reminders to help us finish the year out strong.

We have completed a record number of training sessions this year. Commander Kuta has agreed that anyone who attends training from 6/1/26 forward will get credit for the 26-27 year.

Looking forward, we will again offer training at state convention; the schedule will be available on the website as soon as it is finalized. The training team is also looking for inputs for the next VFW year.

Speaking of trainings, elections are also coming up. A peer led training will be held via Zoom on Wednesday March 11 from 6pm-8pm to cover All-State & All-American Dashboard & Good Standing Report. A link to the Zoom session can be found on the Department calendar: https://vfwca. org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74087 April 15th is fast approaching! This is the cutoff date for All-State to receive covers at convention. The final cut off for the All-State program is June 30th and covers will be provided in the late summer/early fall. The online dashboard is key to see which Post/ District will qualify. Commanders,

if you notice a discrepancy, please contact the department adjutant sooner rather than later. Now is also the time to be monitoring the All-American dashboard. If you need help, or have any questions, please reach out.

Now is the time to start monitoring the “Good Standing Delegate Report” under the members only portal.

Timeliness is very important for submitting election reports and delegate election reports. When Posts submit an election report in OMS, Department will automatically get a copy. A delegate election report is submitted via email to info@vfwca.org, the form can be found on the website: www.vfwca.org.

After March 31st the membership count and the number of delegates will be put into the report.

The department dues notice will come out shortly after the report and must be paid to department by a credit card authorization form emailed to the QM. Please monitor the arrearages column, which happens when a post owes department money for a variety of reasons. Should you have questions concerning this, please contact the QM. The district QM will provide a list of the post who have paid District dues. Once all the requirements are met, your voting strength will populate on the right side.

Thank you all for all you do in support of Veterans.

Paula Jansen Senior Vice Commander

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SENIOR VICE COMMANDER Paula Jansen

“WE ARE AT THE POINT IN THE YEAR WHERE WE HAVE COMPLETED MANY OF OUR ANNUAL PROGRAMS. THANK YOU TO ALL THE CHAIRMEN WHO HAVE WORKED TO COMPLETE PROGRAMS THUS FAR. WE ARE HAVING A GREAT YEAR.” -Paula Jansen, Senior Vice Commander

Did you honorably serve in a foreign conflict?

Do you still want to serve?

Then YOU 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.

Visit vfw.org/Join or email info@vfwca.org to learn more and join today!

NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS.

VFWCA Announces Statewide Winner of Voice of Democracy Scholarship THE WINNING ESSAYIST ADVANCES TO NATIONALS FOR $35,000 SCHOLARSHIP

Irene Pan, a twelfth grader from Fullerton, 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. She is sponsored

by Post 3173 in District 2. As the state winner, Irene 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.

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.

Irene’s winning audio essay explored the true definition of each line of The Pledge of Allegiance and her own deep connection to those words and phrases as a declaration of patriotism and support for our country. She shared her essay as a speech during the event following her announcement as the winner.

Irene will be escorted to the national finals by VFW Department of California State Commander Dave Kuta and VFW Auxiliary Department of California State President Kathleen Okolski. She is also invited to participate in the Founding Forward Spirit of America Leadership trip to Valley Forge, Pennsylvania as a guest of the VFW National Organization.

“The Voice of Democracy Program is an opportunity for the VFWCA to connect with our youth, who are the future of our Nation. The students who participate in these programs are showing their desire to be leaders, and their commitment to civic engagement for the benefit of our society,” said VFWCA State Commander, Dave Kuta “We are proud to encourage and support the brilliant young minds that are working towards a bright future for us all.”

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 “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?” 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 winner of the Department of California’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest was also recognized during the Voice of Democracy Banquet. Andrew GE who attends eighth grade in San Ramon, was awarded the scholarship. He was sponsored by Post 75 in District 10.

To learn more about the Voice of Democracy Program, visit https://vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74120.

The scholarship winner was announced during the annual VFWCA Voice of Democracy Banquet, alongside the winner

For more information about the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California, please visit vfwca.org.

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MEMBER HIGHLIGHT

Jose Ayon

2024-2025 VFW-SVA Legislative Fellow Captain Jose Manuel Ayon has spent 9 years in the United State Army Reserve doing his duty to serve our country and uphold the ideals of our Nation. Since joining the VFW in 2024, Captain Ayon has gone a step beyond to focus on giving back to the veteran community as well. He served as a VFW-SVA Legislative Fellow during the 2024-2025 season, allowing him the opportunity to advocate for veterans and their families.

“AN EFFECTIVE LEADER BUILDS TRUST, TAKES CARE OF SOLDIERS, AND ACCOMPLISHES THE MISSION.” -Jose Ayon

Over the course of his career, he has focused on acting with integrity and purpose, including by promoting the welfare of his soldiers. He said, “An effective leader builds trust, takes care of Soldiers, and accomplishes the mission.”

This clear mindset has been inspired by his experiences throughout his life and career. From his JROTC instructors and the NCOs he worked with early in his career, to his parents and their sacrifices, he has a strong sense of conviction in his service and his mission.

By participating in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Student Veterans of America (SVA) Legislative Fellowship, he was able to continue his mission by representing the needs of veterans at a national level. The VFW - SVA Legislative Fellowship was created to facilitate opportunities for student veterans to play an active role in legislative advocacy of veterans’ issues. By engaging directly with members of Congress, fellows are able to make an impact on public policy and gain valuable experiences that will benefit future careers, volunteerism, and education.

During his time as a fellow, Captain Ayon was able to earn valuable experience working alongside the California VFW Legislative team in Washington, DC. “I learned from an incredible network of leaders and

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had the opportunity to brief legislators directly on veteran issues,” he said. “Politics is ultimately a people business.

The individuals we advocate for are our brothers and sisters who have served this country, and it is our responsibility to represent them with professionalism and purpose.”

Captain Ayon recently spoke at the VFW Department of California Voice of Democracy Banquet, where he shared about his experiences and offered advice for those in attendance.

When asked to share a message to his fellow veterans and servicemembers, he said, “utilize the benefits you have earned to further your education, it opens doors and expands your impact. Legislative engagement is critical, and organizations like the VFW provide meaningful platforms to make your voice heard.”

nation that gave my family an opportunity and to be part of an organization built on values, commitment, and teamwork.”

He earned his VFW eligibility through a deployment to the Middle East, where he served as Company Commander. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device, and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California.

His message to any current students considering military service is, “do your research, understand the career field you want, and have a plan before joining. The military will challenge you mentally and physically, but the growth, leadership development, and sense of purpose are worth it.

You will come out stronger and more prepared for life.”

Captain Ayon is still serving. As a Signal Officer in the US Army Reserve, and as a VFW member in his community.

Captain Ayon is a member of VFW Post 67, in Sacramento CA, where he lives with his wife and one-year-old daughter.

His strong sense of family and camaraderie is inspired by his parents. As a child of immigrants, he has stated that his military service is in honor of their sacrifices and the foundation they laid for success. He said, “I wanted to serve the

To learn more about the VFW Department of California, visit: https://vfwca.org/ For more information about the VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship, visit: https://studentveterans.org/programsevents/vfw-sva-legislative-fellowship/

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VFW DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA APPLAUDS SIGNING OF SB 694 INTO LAW THE NEW LAW REINSTATES PENALTIES FOR CLAIMS SHARKS TARGETING VETERANS AND SERVICE MEMBERS NAVIGATING THE FEDERAL BENEFITS SYSTEM

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Department of California applauds the signing of SB 694 into law, which is landmark consumer protection legislation designed to directly benefit veterans and servicemembers. The new law was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom during an event held at the state capitol on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. VFW Department of California State Commander Dave Kuta attended the event and shared remarks in support of the new law.

can sometimes be in excess of five times the amount earned by filing the claims.

The VFW Department of California provides free, federally accredited assistance to veterans statewide to file claims and secure benefits for veterans and their dependents. With over 1.8 million veterans in California, these officers are trained and committed to securing the benefits owed to veterans and their dependents as a result of their service to our Nation.

SB 694 was authored by Senator Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera), co-authored by Senator Sabrina Cervantes and Assembly members Pilar Schiavo and Jeff Gonzalez and co-sponsored by Attorney General Rob Bonta.

“Since the Continental Army started in 1776, we have had people preying on veterans, but California sends an important message here, this represents a landmark decision, being able to afford protections to veterans, telling them that California will not stand by and let us be used,” said VFW Department of California State Commander, Dave Kuta during the press conference. “And as California goes, so does the rest of the country. The rest of the country will recognize this. Thank you, from all of the veterans that I represent, to the senators, assembly members and the governor himself. It means the world to us and our families.”

Watch the full press conference here: https://www.youtube.com/live/pSDz4l1RWsQ And read the statement from Governor Newsom’s office here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/02/10/governor-newsomsigns-consumer-protection-bill-cracking-down-onveteran-fraud-and-abuse-launches-tax-cut-for-vets/ For more information about the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California, please visit vfwca.org.

Key protections focus on ensuring untrained individuals cannot charge veterans for filing their VA claims, charges that

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The Veterans of Foreign Wars Day of Service is an annual community service initiative, which kicks off on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Posts are encouraged to host their own service event on this day, or throughout the month of May. Taking place across the nation and around the world, VFW Day of Service showcases veterans banding together to make a difference in their communities. By combining resources, gaining media support and dedicating the entire month to service, we spotlight the ongoing commitment of veterans who continue to lead lives of service.

VFW DAY OF SERVICE FAQ WHAT IS THE VFW DAY OF SERVICE?

DO YOU HAVE TO SIGN UP FOR 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.

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?

WHY 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.

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 2, 2026, the VFW will kick off the veteran-led community service projects that will take place throughout the month of May.

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

HOW CAN A VFW DAY OF SERVICE COMMUNITY SERVICE EVENT 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, and kick 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.

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.

Learn more about the VFW Day of Service by visiting https://todaysvfw.org/day-of-service/.

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.

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SUPPORT AMERICA’S VETERANS AND SERVICEMEMBERS by sponsoring the VFWCA Do you own or know of a business interested in supporting the mission of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California? We now offer sponsorship packages crafted for organizations to pledge their support and share their appreciation for the VFWCA and America’s veterans and servicemembers.

The packages are available at multiple levels, with various benefits at each level to cater to the budgets of all.

Learn more: https://vfwca.org/uploads/documents/WebSponsorFlyer.pdf

SPRING 2026 · VFWCA.ORG

Our shift into an increasingly digital world inspires opportunities for new programs and ideas to engage with veterans in unique and exciting ways. Combat Tested Gaming (CTG) is a program by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) that connects veterans, active-duty military, and the broader military community through gaming. It aims to improve mental wellness, foster social engagement, and build camaraderie by organizing esports leagues, weekly game nights, and other events where members can connect with one another. CTG provides a platform for both competitive and casual gaming, including video games like Rocket League and Madden, as well as board and card games, and offers a way to learn about veteran benefits.

safe place to talk without judgment. I, myself, have been diagnosed with PTSD as a Gulf War veteran. I was able to talk to my wife about some of my experiences, but through gaming, whether it is online or tabletop (DnD, boardgames or cards), I was able to continue to engage members of my unit. I have had the pleasure to engage over 200 veterans annually at gaming conventions or online. This is the new era of support and truly never leaving someone behind.”

The program also hosts a Discord community where individuals can talk outside of scheduled events to build strong relationships founded on camaraderie and connection.

Ready to deploy into a community that gets you? Registration is 100% FREE! Join Combat Tested Gaming today and connect with thousands of military veteran gamers.

VFWCA CTG Chairperson Hector Torres oversees events around the state of California, in person and online. He said,

For questions about the program, contact: Chairperson: Hector Torres Email: hectorVFW13@gmail.com

“What does it mean to me? As a veteran, the Combat Tested Gaming program allows me to continue to support my brothers and sisters who have served or are serving. It is a

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ELECTION SEASON FOR THE VFW DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA IS COMING! POST

DISTRICT

DEPARTMENT

• Nominations: begin in March and remain open until election in April

• Nominations: held during April and May, until the convention

• Post elections: held during the April meeting - Delegates are elected at this time - Note: when you file the election report at vfw.org in OMS, a copy will automatically be sent to the Department electronically - Submit the delegate election report to info@vfwca.org, the form is available on the website

• District elections: held at the April/May convention - Note: when you file the election report at vfw.org in OMS, a copy will automatically be sent to the Department electronically - Installation: sometime after elections and before the Department Commander takes command on June 20

• Nominations, elections, and installation: held at the Department Convention

• Installation: sometime after elections and before the Department Commander takes command on June 20

• All District Officers take office on June 20, when the Department Commander is installed

• Only delegates (from the post delegate election report referenced above) will be allowed to vote at the convention • The Post must be in good standing - Refer to the “Department Good Standing Delegate Report” under members only on vfwca.org.

• For more info about convention, please visit vfwca.org News State Convention Refer to the National Bylaws when planning your elections.

• All Post Officers take office on June 20, when the Department Commander is installed

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SPRING 2026 · VFWCA.ORG

VFW ACTION CORPS The VFW’s Action Corps is a national grassroots lobbying effort by more than 300,000 VFW members and patriotic supporters of veterans across the nation and the world. Located in communities across the globe, this group works to inform and educate veterans and service members on the initiatives and policies that affect them and take the voice of veterans to local, state and national lawmakers. The group works closely with the VFW’s National Legislative Service and is free and open to all patriotic Americans who care about the military and veterans’ communities.

The VFW works hard as an organization to make a difference in the laws and policies that impact veterans and their families. But the efforts of each and every individual who stands up and shares their voice is vital to our mission.

Sign up to join the movement by visiting: https://votervoice.net/VFW/register PARTICIPANTS RECEIVE:

• The VFW Action Corps Weekly, an easy-to-read electronic newsletter that highlights the VFW’s advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill.

• Immediate access to a nationwide database of contact information for all elected officials, a congressional directory.

• Regular VFW “Action Alerts” on how to get involved when our nation’s veterans, service members and their families need their voices heard on Capitol Hill.

The VFW Action Corps is what gives the VFW its strength in advocating for our nation’s heroes.

Learn more about Action Corps here: https://www.vfw.org/advocacy/grassroots-efforts

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2026 Calendar of Key Dates & Events JANUARY 1

NEW YEAR’S DAY

JANUARY 19 (3RD MONDAY)

MLK JR. DAY

JANUARY 20

VFWCA BIRTHDAY

JANUARY 27

SIGNING OF THE VIETNAM PEACE ACCORD IN 1973

JANUARY 30

VOICE OF DEMOCRACY BANQUET

JANUARY 31

COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION

FEBRUARY

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

FEBRUARY 15

SINKING OF U.S.S. MAINE, 1898

FEBRUARY 16 (3RD MONDAY)

PRESIDENTS’ DAY

FEBRUARY 28

LIBERATION OF KUWAIT OPERATION DESERT STORM 1991

FEBRUARY 28–MARCH 5

VFW WASHINGTON CONFERENCE

MARCH

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

MARCH 24

START OF KOSOVO CAMPAIGN 1999

MARCH 25

MEDAL OF HONOR DAY

MARCH 28

COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION & HOMECOMING

MARCH 29

NATIONAL VIETNAM WAR VETERANS DAY

MARCH 31

END OF OPERATION RESTORE HOPE SOMALIA 1995

APRIL

MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD

APRIL 5

EASTER SUNDAY

APRIL 16–19

SENIOR VICE COMMANDERS TRAINING

MAY

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH

MAY

ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

MAY 1

LOYALTY DAY

MAY 2

DAY OF SERVICE

MAY 7

MILITARY SPOUSE APPRECIATION DAY

MAY 8

VE DAY: GERMAN UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER SIGNED, 1945

MAY 10

MOTHER’S DAY

MAY 16

GRAND COOTIE COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION

MAY 25 (LAST MONDAY)

MEMORIAL DAY

JUNE

PTSD AWARENESS MONTH

JUNE

LGBTQ+ PRIDE MONTH

JUNE 6

D DAY: ALLIED INVASION OF EUROPE, 1944

JUNE 12

WOMEN VETERANS DAY

JUNE 14

FLAG DAY, ARMY BIRTHDAY

JUNE 17

DEPARTMENT TRAINING

JUNE 18–20

STATE CONVENTION

JUNE 21

DEPARTMENT COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION

JUNE 21

FATHER’S DAY

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JULY 4

INDEPENDENCE DAY

JULY 25–29

VFW NATIONAL CONVENTION

JULY 27

SIGNING OF THE KOREAN ARMISTICE IN 1953

AUGUST 4

COAST GUARD BIRTHDAY

AUGUST 31

END OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 2010

SEPTEMBER

NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH

SEPTEMBER

NATIONAL SERVICE DOG MONTH

SEPTEMBER 2

VJ DAY: JAPAN SURRENDERED, 1945, ENDING WORLD WAR II FIGHTING

SEPTEMBER 7 (1ST MONDAY)

LABOR DAY

SEPTEMBER 11

NATIONAL BUDGET & FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING

SEPTEMBER 12–13

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION MEETING

SEPTEMBER 14–17

FALL LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

SEPTEMBER 11

PATRIOT'S DAY

SEPTEMBER 15–OCTOBER 15

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

SEPTEMBER 17

CITIZENSHIP DAY / CONSTITUTION DAY

SEPTEMBER 18

AIR FORCE BIRTHDAY

SEPTEMBER 18 (3RD FRIDAY)

POW MIA RECOGNITION DAY

SEPTEMBER 24–27

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF’S HOMECOMING

SEPTEMBER 29

VFW DAY

OCTOBER 1–4

DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT / QUARTERMASTER TRAINING

OCTOBER 9

START OF OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM–AFGHANISTAN 2001

OCTOBER 12

COLUMBUS DAY

OCTOBER 13

NAVY BIRTHDAY

OCTOBER 15–18

JUNIOR VICE COMMANDERS TRAINING

NOVEMBER

AMERICAN INDIAN HERITAGE MONTH

NOVEMBER 3

ELECTION DAY

NOVEMBER 10

MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY

NOVEMBER 11

SIGNING WORLD WAR I ARMISTICE, 1918, VETERANS DAY

NOVEMBER 26 (4TH THURSDAY)

THANKSGIVING

DECEMBER 7

PEARL HARBOR DAY

DECEMBER 13

NATIONAL GUARD BIRTHDAY

DECEMBER 20

SPACE FORCE BIRTHDAY

DECEMBER 24

CHRISTMAS EVE

DECEMBER 25

CHRISTMAS DAY

DECEMBER 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE

View the full VFW Department of California Calendar on our website! Click HERE!

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EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE POSTS 9578 AND POST 3787

Since the new year, Department Auxiliary President Kathy Okolski joined members of VFW Posts 9578 (Alpine) and Post 3787 (Mission Valley) at the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade in downtown. Great energy from our VFW family!

DISTRICT 2 OFFICIAL VISIT

State Commander Kuta and Senior Vice Commander Jansen visited comrades, attended the District 2 Post and Auxiliary meetings, and enjoyed a private tour of The Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum’s future site in Irvine. The museum is set to re-open in Spring 2027!

VFW POST 1943

VFW Post 1943 (Sonoma), in partnership with the Sonoma Valley Fire Department, donated an AED defibrillator to the Arnold Field baseball field. This donation was made in memory of Robert Rowntree, a WWII veteran and lifetime VFW member, honoring his legacy of service and dedication to the community.

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EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE VFW POST 233

VFW Post 233 (Beaumont) participated in the Veterans Expo and Job Fair this past weekend, connecting veterans with valuable resources and opportunities.

ACROSS CALIFORNIA, VFW POSTS PROUDLY HONORED OUR NATIONS HEROES THROUGH WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA CEREMONIES

At Lakeside Carter Smith Post 5867, Post Commander, Quartermaster, and Auxiliary member placed wreaths in honor of Coxswain 3rd Class Howard Carter and MUS1 Rowland Smith, who paid the ultimate sacrifice at Pearl Harbor. VFW Post 7139 (Solvang) supported the DAR at Oak Hill Cemetery, where 910 wreaths were laid and the VFW Color Guard raised the flag. District 1 leadership placed the POW/MIA wreath at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, while VFW Post 9242 (Hollister), VFW Post 2814 (Atascadero), VFW Post 9327 (Santee) honored veterans at cemeteries across the state, saying their names, rendering salutes, and ensuring they are never forgotten.

A HUGE SUCCESS AT VFW POST 1679 (VENTURA)!

Partnering with American Legion Post 48 and Cub Scout Pack 3179, the Post collected over 1,000 cans for Food Share throughout November. The Scouts also helped build this year’s can “tree,” crafted in the shape of a care package.

A true show of community, service, and holiday spirit!

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SPRING 2026 · VFWCA.ORG

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.

YETI:

THE VITAMIN SHOPPE:

THE NORTH FACE:

Spring is right around the corner, so staying hydrated is key. Whether you’re spending more time outdoors or on the go, YETI’s drinkware, coolers, and mugs keep beverages at the perfect temperature. As a thank-you for your service, veterans receive 20% off on YETI’s website, making it easier to gear up for the next season. To take advantage of this offer, veterans can follow these simple steps:

Maintaining good health is always important. The Vitamin Shoppe offers a selection of vitamins, supplements, and nutritional essentials to support long-term health and daily routines.

Veterans receive 20% off every Monday through the stores’ Military Mondays program. To take advantage of this offer, veterans can follow these simple steps:

Known for durable, well-made gear, The North Face offers practical options for outdoor activities and everyday wear. As a thank-you for their service, veterans receive 10% off on The North Face website and in stores. To take advantage of this offer, veterans can follow these simple steps:

1. Verify Eligibility: Visit the YETI website, scroll down, and select “ID.me” under the “Customer Support” section.

2. Sign In or Create ID.me Profile: Continue to sign in.

3. Enjoy the Savings: 20% off your favorite tumblers, coolers, and more; exclusions apply.

1. Visit a store: Stop by your nearest The Vitamin Shoppe location on a Monday.

2. Verify Your Service: Present a valid military ID or proof of service at checkout.

3. Enjoy the Savings: 20% off on your purchase as part of Military Mondays, in-store only. www.vitaminshoppe.com

www.yeti.com

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1. Verify Eligibility: Visit The North Face website, scroll down, and select “Military Discount” under the “Explore” section to verify eligibility.

2. Shop Your Gear: Browse and select eligible items online or in store.

3. Enjoy the Savings: Receive 10% off your purchase. www.thenorthface.com

THE

CALIFORNIA

VETERAN SPRING 2026

VFWCA.ORG

THE CALIFORNIA VETERAN 9136 Elk Grove Blvd., #100 Elk Grove, CA 95624