The California Veteran Magazine - Summer 2024

THE CALIFORNIA VETERAN

EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS

LEVIN RECEIVES

VFW CONGRESSIONAL AWARD PAGE 4

THIRD ANNUAL VFW DAY OF SERVICE PAGE 12

EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS

INSIDE THE ISSUE

A MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER

PAGE 2

LEVIN RECEIVES VFW CONGRESSIONAL AWARD

PAGE 4

CHAPLAIN OF THE YEAR

PAGE 7

FAMOSO DRAGSTRIP MARCH MEET

PAGE 9

THIRD ANNUAL VFW DAY OF SERVICE

PAGE 12

HOW TO BECOME AN ALL-AMERICAN POST

PAGE 14 MEMORIAL DAY

PAGE 15

SOCIAL MEDIA CORNER

PAGE 21

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

STATE COMMANDER

Tim Bryant

Team California,

First and foremost, it has been an honor to serve as your State Commander for this past year. Your continued commitment to excellence, service before self, dedication to the Veterans of Foreign Wars and each other has been truly amazing.

This past year, I had the great honor of visiting nearly every District and the communities you live in throughout our great Department. From as far north

“THIS PAST YEAR, I HAD THE GREAT HONOR OF VISITING NEARLY EVERY DISTRICT AND THE COMMUNITIES YOU LIVE IN THROUGHOUT OUR GREAT DEPARTMENT. FROM AS FAR NORTH AS EUREKA, IONE, CHICO, TUOLUMNE, TO GILROY, CLAYTON, CHOWCHILLA,

VENTURA, BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA CITY, GARDENA AND FINALLY ARLINGTON, ANAHEIM AND SAN DIEGO, YOU HAVE WELCOMED ME WITH OPEN ARMS.”

-Tim Bryant, State Commander

as Eureka, Ione, Chico, Tuolumne, to Gilroy, Clayton, Chowchilla, Ventura, Bakersfield, California City, Gardena and finally Arlington, Anaheim and San Diego, you have welcomed me with open arms. More importantly, I saw how your Posts and Districts engage within the communities you live. By providing shelter from the massive fires around Paradise, engaging with the student veterans community at South Humbold, to visiting the “Tiny Homes” for homeless Veterans on the campus of the VA Facility in

Los Angeles, remembering our fallen heroes at the Patriot of a Warrior Museum in Bakersfield, raising the roof at Fresno and opening your doors for communities such as Jurupa Valley, Fallbrook, Dana Point and so much more. Your efforts have been truly remarkable and have made a lasting impact on our veterans, their families and the communities you live in.

Additionally, we initiated our Department Deputy Inspector Program, as well as the Post Assistance/ Community Assistance Grants. Your efforts in implementing this Inspection Program is a testament to your resourcefulness and commitment to excellence within our organization. Through the VFWCA Foundation, we were able to provide grants totaling nearly $15,000 to Post who needed assistance.

In closing, Sherree and I would like to thank all of you for what you do on a daily basis. Giving back to our veterans, to their families and communities we live. For also sharing your stories of commitment and compassion to one another. For being “That Team of We.”

I am looking forward to the continued success for this upcoming year and the years to follow. It has been a blessing and an honor to serve alongside you. Thank you, Department of California.

Sincerely

Tim Bryant State Commander

As we enter the final few months of the year, let us all remind ourselves why we are members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. For many of us that grew up in a military family, we remember our grandfather or father taking us to the VFW as children and it is a way to honor their service. Now, children can talk about their grandmothers and mothers military service and membership in the VFW.

The VFW is also a great way to participate in programs that bring members together for projects that impact our family and community. Whatever your reasons for joining, let us never forget that friendship and camaraderie are critical for our health and wellbeing. Too often, we get caught up in issues that lead us down a path of

judgment and controversy, but I want to remind you that the work the VFW does truly matters.

The veterans that have gone before us paved the way for the establishment of the VA, advocated for legislation that created the GI Bill, and most recently, pushed the PACT Act across the finish line. We have all taken advantage of what our predecessors helped create, and I am grateful for their dedication and sacrifice. Let us now be the ones to create programs for future generations.

I want to thank Commander Tim Bryant for his leadership, friendship and mentorship this past year, and look forward to seeing our membership at State Convention in June.

Deb Johnson Sr. Vice Commander

“THE VETERANS THAT HAVE GONE BEFORE US PAVED THE WAY FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE VA, ADVOCATED FOR LEGISLATION THAT CREATED THE GI BILL, AND MOST RECENTLY, PUSHED THE PACT ACT ACROSS THE FINISH LINE. WE HAVE ALL TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF WHAT OUR PREDECESSORS HELPED CREATE, AND I AM GRATEFUL FOR THEIR DEDICATION AND SACRIFICE.”

-Deborah Johnson, Senior Vice Commander

Deborah Johnson

SENIOR VICE COMMANDER

NATIONAL LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR

LEVIN RECEIVES VFW CONGRESSIONAL AWARD

CALIFORNIA REPRESENTATIVE HAS REPEATEDLY SHOWN COMMITMENT TO MILITARY, VETERANS

From The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. (www.vfw.org/media-and-events/latest-releases/archives/2024/3/levin-receives-vfw-congressional-award)

“I AM HONORED TO PRESENT THIS AWARD TO SUCH A STAUNCH ADVOCATE FOR OUR MILITARY AND VETERAN COMMUNITIES. REP. LEVIN EXEMPLIFIES THE VALUES OF SERVICE

AND ADVOCACY THAT WE AT THE VFW STRIVE TO LIVE EVERY DAY. HIS PROPENSITY FOR AND TRACK RECORD OF WORKING ACROSS THE AISLE TO DELIVER RESULTS IS REMARKABLE.”

Duane Sarmiento,

VFW Commander-in-Chief

WASHINGTON (March 6, 2024) — The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) presented its 2024 Congressional Award to Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) for his steadfast support to veterans, service members, their families and survivors.

“I am honored to present this award to such a staunch advocate for our military and veteran communities,” said VFW Commander-in-Chief Duane Sarmiento. “Rep. Levin exemplifies the values of service and advocacy that we at the VFW strive to live every day. His propensity for and track record of working across the aisle to deliver results is remarkable.”

Presented annually since 1964, the VFW Congressional Award is given to one member of the House or Senate for significant legislative contributions on behalf of veterans and military service personnel. Past recipients include strong national security and veterans’ advocates, such as Sen. Bob Dole (R-KS), Rep. G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery (D-MS), Sen.

VFW National Commander Duane Sarmiento presents the 2024 VFW Congressional Award to Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49).

John McCain (R-AZ), Sen. Daniel K. Inouye (D-HI), and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT), among many others. Last year’s award went to Sen. John Boozman (R-AR) who serves, among other roles, as the ranking member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies.

Levin, who represents Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and is the grandson of a World War II veteran, has been a member of Congress since 2019. During his time, he has focused on veterans’ issues and enacted more than two dozen bipartisan laws to help our nation’s heroes. As ranking member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, Rep. Levin authored legislation to help veterans ease back into civilian life, access affordable housing, receive workforce training to land good-paying jobs, and more. He introduced the bipartisan Veteran Hunger Coordination Act to combat veteran food insecurity; secured the passage of the Reducing Veteran Homelessness Act to aid organizations that house homeless veterans and improve HUD-VASH case management; and strongly supported the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise To Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022, the most significant expansion of VA health care benefits in over 30 years. As the representative of California’s 49th Congressional District, Rep. Levin has also secured considerable federal funds to improve the quality of life for the military there, including more than $250 million to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton for infrastructure projects.

In addition to his leadership role on the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, Rep. Levin also serves as a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources.

“Rep. Levin’s commitment to the well-being of military personnel and veterans is clear,” said Sarmiento. “His leadership among peers in this arena makes him the most deserving of this award.”

About the VFW: 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 1.4 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in nearly 6,000 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 vfw.org

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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 MEMBER PAYMENT OPTIONS*

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

CHAPLAIN OF THE YEAR

Congratulations to Chaplain Sean Moncalieri of Post 6604, District 17 for being named the VFW National Chaplain of the Year! Chaplain Sean has shown tremendous dedication and leadership and was named the Chaplain of the Year for the Department of California. With this honor, he was submitted to National for consideration by a committee of Department Chaplains. He was then selected as the VFW National Chaplain of the year. This is the highest award in the VFW for chaplains! The nomination was written and submitted by Folsom VFW Post 6604 Commander Robert Lee.

The Department and National awards will be presented to Chaplain Sean at the State Convention in June.

From the Department of California, District 17 and Post 6604, Congratulations Chaplain Sean and thank you for all you do!

FAMOSO DRAGSTRIP MARCH MEET

It was a dreary, rainy Leap Day weekend at the Famoso Dragstrip that greeted the VFW Department of California recruiting team. Despite some rain delays, Pete Wittenberg and the 706 VFW Top Fuel Dragster had a good showing.

The weather did not dampen the spirits of the fans. The recruiting team headed up by District 6 Commander Chuck Cournyea and District 5 Commander Michael Croy were able to sign up 16 eligible veterans over the four-day weekend. Watch the Instagram video: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4BlndOhiWS/

THIRD ANNUAL VFW DAY OF SERVICE

The VFW Day of Service is an annual community service event. Part of the VFW’s #StillServing campaign, the day aims to unite veterans across America around a common goal — showing the nation the impact veterans make in their communities. The third annual Day of Service was held on May 4, 2024. Because communities across the nation can differ in their needs, Posts were encouraged to create their own event that reflects the specific needs of their communities.

Post 5867 Lakeside worked with the Lakeside Maine Avenue Revitalization Association to pull weeds, plant succulents and pick up trash.

In honor of the Day of Service, members from the VFW Post 3010 in Lincoln cooked and served breakfast at the Placer County Veterans Stand Down. 125 veterans and staff members were fed at the event. The menu included sausage gravy, made by Commander Gary Berns, breakfast sausage links and fresh fruit cups along with biscuits donated by Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this day!

HOW TO BECOME AN ALL-AMERICAN POST

The All-American program exists to recognize exceptional leadership and teamwork, authentic accomplishment in membership growth and VFW core programs. Becoming an All-American Post is an exciting achievement, which reflects the dedication and commitment of a Post and it’s members. All Posts that meet the Qualifying Percentage and the program participation criteria will receive an All-American Post Citation, Post Streamer and be recognized in the VFW magazine.

ALL-AMERICAN POST CRITERIA

• Membership must be at least 102%

• Post-Election Report must be submitted to National Headquarters

• Meet all the following Program Participation Criteria by January 31st, 2025:

– Voice of Democracy – minimum of one entry advanced to District judging (Overseas Post can donate $125 to National in lieu of entry)

– Patriots Pen – minimum of one entry advanced to District judging (Overseas Post can donate $125 to National in lieu of entry)

– Donate to Veterans and Military Support Programs Services, minimum of $125

• A Post must submit a community service report quarterly to their department for submission to the All-American Dashboard. The quarters are July-Sept, Oct-Dec, Jan-March, and April-June. One of these community service activities must be for the VFW Day of Service. Learn more at https://todaysvfw.org/vfw-day-of-service/

• Must purchase a minimum of 500 Buddy Poppies

MEMORIAL DAY

On Memorial Day it is important for all Americans to take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this day. Memorial Day is not just a long weekend or the unofficial start of summer; it is a day dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of California wishes to remind everyone that the freedoms we enjoy today are the result of the courage and dedication of our fallen brothers and sisters. These individuals came from all walks of life but shared a common commitment to protect and defend our country. Their sacrifices must not be forgotten.

We applaud those who have participated in Memorial Day ceremonies to pay respects to those who have given their lives for our freedom, including the moment of silence at 3:00 PM local time, as part of the National Moment of Remembrance.

Let us ensure that every year Memorial Day remains a poignant reminder of the cost of our liberty and an opportunity to honor and remember our military heroes. By doing so, we preserve the legacy of those who served and reaffirm our commitment to supporting the families they left behind.

To learn more about how you can pay tribute not only on Memorial Day, but throughout the year, contact your local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post.

Respectfully,

Tim

Bryant State Commander Veterans

of Foreign Wars, Department of California

The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California does not officially endorse any Candidates for Department office.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California does not officially endorse any Candidates for Department office.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California does not officially endorse any Candidates for Department office.

Are you a Purple Heart Recipient or a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom? You may be eligible to have your first year’s membership dues paid for by the VFW Department of California. Join today and be part of the oldest combat veteran organization in the nation. For more information, please contact: info@vfwca.org

SOCIAL MEDIA CORNER

KEEPING IT FRESH

Social media is a fast-paced environment for sharing content and interacting with your audience. It is most effective when content is shared in real time, and consistently. Another important detail is keeping the page fresh and up-to-date. This includes all of your pages across the different platforms, such as:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• Threads

• LinkedIn

• Youtube

• Twitter

Below are some tips to make sure your pages are set up to perform at their best.

COVER PHOTO

Consider changing your cover photo to update the look and feel of your page. This can include a few seasonal photos that you cycle throughout the year, or a new photo every few months.

ABOUT/BIO

Review your About or Bio section to ensure all links, phone numbers, and other information is accurate.

PINNED/FEATURED POSTS

Change out your pinned or featured post, by choosing a new post or reposting the same content to keep the date fresh.

TAGS

Review any tags to ensure your page is only connected to appropriate content.

#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.