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VETERAN

SIX YEARS, SEVEN MONTHS:

Former POW Colonel Michael Lee Brazelton on captivity, freedom, and those who never came home PAGE 18

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EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS

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INSIDE THE ISSUE

A MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER PAGE 2

106TH CALIFORNIA STATE CONVENTION AND 127TH VFW NATIONAL CONVENTION PAGE 6

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A DELEGATE? PAGE 14

GOLDEN STATE CAPITOL DEFENDERS PAGE 17

SIX YEARS, SEVEN MONTHS PAGE 18

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT: ROB CANCIO PAGE 22

LEAVING CALIFORNIA’S LEGACY AT THE VFW NATIONAL HOME PAGE 24

ALL-AMERICAN POSTS & DISTRICTS PAGE 28

VFW DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA 2026-2027 DEPARTMENT PROGRAMS PAGE 29

WHAT TO SAY WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY PAGE 31

VETERANS FREEBIES OR DISCOUNTS PAGE 35

EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE PAGE 36

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

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VFWCA.ORG should have been distributed to Post commanders by now. We are well under way for all programs and due dates will come up quick! Reach out to the specific program chairman if you have any questions, all of their information is on the website. TRAININGS

STATE COMMANDER Paula Jansen As I have been traveling around to visit Districts and Posts, I am in awe of the hard work that is being done at all levels. I want to thank you all for everything that you do, and I will continue to show gratitude as we move throughout the year. Convention was fast moving, and I was kept busy with my responsibilities and the places I had to be. I did not even get to visit the vendor floor for any shopping! But we accomplished so much. We got all the business done and that is what truly matters. Thank you to everyone who was a delegate and showed up for the business sessions. Your vote does matter. Below are a few updates and reminders for the coming months: PROGRAMS

District commanders received all of the 2026-2027 program flyers, which

The Districts School of Instruction are well underway. Individuals can attend any Zoom school of instruction, as long as membership numbers are recorded and trainings are logged. MEMBERSHIP

The Commander-in-Chief Membership Program is on the website, which spells out the requirements for All American status. The membership chairman has created a flyer for us to track our membership growth throughout the year. Let’s work together to reach the summit! We expect to see the life member count drop at the beginning of September, at the same time the Posts will get life member payouts. Please validate who is listed as deceased through National to ensure accuracy. We can also be working on annual members now. District commanders were provided the at-large annual list to distribute to Posts. The All State Program requirements are on the Department website and I highly recommend that seniors and juniors attend the school of instruction.

Having highly trained individuals at each level, means someone is ready to step in and stay on track , if someone has to step down. INSPECTIONS

Monitoring the Department and the National dashboards is critical to the success of each Post and District. Just this week, I had someone ask me to correct a training from last year. Wedo not change the dashboards or inspection items after June 30. With the exception of audits that were corrected. Inspections are fast approaching the district inspector should be visiting each Post to help get their binder set up. The more preparation that is done, the easier the inspection goes. I encourage you to utilize the due date checklist to ensure you are meeting all the requirements on-time and to the correct place. I know you are all doing great things! Please keep up the good work and make sure you are reporting what you do. And remember to tag your social media posts with the our official accounts and #VFWCA, @CaliforniaVFW. I have all my official visits scheduled and I look forward to seeing you all in my travels around the state! Going Over & Above Together

“AS I HAVE BEEN TRAVELING AROUND TO VISIT DISTRICTS AND POSTS, I AM IN AWE OF THE HARD WORK THAT IS BEING DONE AT ALL LEVELS.” -Paula Jansen, State Commander

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Comrades, I hope each of you is off to a great start in this new VFW year. It is truly an honor to serve as your State Senior Vice Commander, and I want to thank you for everything you do each day to support our veterans, our communities, and one another. As your Senior Vice Commander, I look forward to visiting Posts throughout California. It is an honor to meet with you all, work together, and thrive together. My hope is that we can continue building a strong, prosperous organization that will serve veterans, their families and our community for generations to come. Throughout the past year I have seen again and again that it is not the buildings or meetings that make the VFW special; it is our people. It's the Comrades who are always willing to lend a hand, welcome a new member, organize an event, or simply check in on a fellow veteran. Those acts of kindness and service are what stand out above all else. Every Post has its own traditions and personality, but we all share the

same mission: serving veterans, their families, and our communities. When we support one another, share ideas, and celebrate each other's successes, we strengthen not only our Posts but our entire Department. Membership is more than a number— it is about ensuring that every eligible veteran knows there is a place for them in the VFW. Each new member brings fresh experiences, leadership, and opportunities to continue our proud legacy. I encourage each of us to personally invite a fellow veteran to attend a meeting or event. That one invitation could change a life. Thank you for your friendship, your dedication, and your unwavering commitment to the Veterans of Foreign Wars. I look forward to seeing many of you in the months ahead. Together, let's continue Going Over & Above Together as we strengthen our VFW family and honor those we serve. In Comradeship, John Hernandez State Senior Vice Commander| VFW Department of California

“THANK YOU FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP, YOUR DEDICATION, AND YOUR UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING MANY OF YOU IN THE MONTHS AHEAD.” -John Hernandez, Senior Vice Commander

SENIOR VICE COMMANDER John Hernandez

Comrades, We are already off to the races this new VFW year! I already see all the teamwork and results. I can see everything you do each day to support our veterans, our communities, and one another. JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER Wendy Calderon

As we travel throughout California, I'm reminded that what we learned before the VFW is what makes us a strong unit. It’s every member that truly brings the brightness to our gloomy days and nights. We lead the way to listen, lend a hand, welcome a member and their families, & above all we welcome them to a safe place. Let’s continue to keep our members involved by having great communication, provide up-to-date information on current legislation, and buddy checks.

As your Junior Vice Commander, I look forward to visiting Posts throughout California, listening to your ideas, cheering your successes, and working alongside you to be California Strong. Together, we can continue building an organization that future generations of veterans will be proud to call their own. Thank you for your dedication, your leadership, and your commitment to serving the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Together, let's continue to Learn, Lead, and Serve as we strengthen our VFW family and honor those past and present. In Comradeship, Wendy M Calderon State Junior Vice Commander VFW Department of California

Introducing the 2026-2027 VFW Department of California Officers!

Commander Paula Jansen Navy, Post 7907

Senior Vice Commander John Hernandez Marines, Post 4089

Junior Vice Commander Wendy Calderon Navy, Post 5867

Quartermaster Deb Johnson Army, Post 10859

National Council Rep/ Judge Advocate Dawn Napier Navy, Post 9561

Inspector Sal Cota Army, Post 10965

Adjutant Andrew Miller Army, Post 8254 Chaplain Frank Correa Air Force, Post 4089

State Surgeon Stephen Milano Army, Post 10859 Chief of Staff Tim Bryant Air Force, Post 3000

Parliamentarian Darrol Prill Air Force, Post 2333 Immediate Past Commander David Kuta Army, Post 67

Visit our website to read their bios, and learn more about the National Officers and District Officers, and more. vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74101

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106TH

CALIFORNIA STATE CONVENTION JUNE 17–21, 2026 SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA

From celebrating achievements and honoring our All-State honorees to electing new leadership and shaping our organization’s future, this year’s VFW Department of California State Convention truly reflected what makes the VFW family so special. Held in Sacramento, from June 18-21, it was a week filled with camaraderie, meaningful conversation, and time spent with fellow members, Auxiliary members, friends, and supporters from across California. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make it such a success. Congratulations to our newly elected and installed officers, our award recipients, and everyone who continues to serve our veterans and communities with dedication and pride. Here’s to another great year!

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106TH

CALIFORNIA STATE CONVENTION JUNE 17–21, 2026 SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA

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127TH

VFW NATIONAL CONVENTION JULY 24–30, 2026 RENO, NEVADA

The 127th VFW National Convention was held July 24–30, 2026 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada. VFW members from around the nation gathered to conduct official business of the organization. The main priority of the convention was to establish the VFW’s national legislative priorities for this year, based on resolutions discussed and voted on by delegates. Additional business included workshops and subcommittee meetings on a variety of topics. VFW Department of California attendees at the convention included over 120 members from around the state of California. Attendees included both those in leadership roles and individuals participating in all the convention had to offer. Each year the VFW National Convention combines governance, education, networking, camaraderie, and fellowship. It is an opportunity to connect with national leadership, other state’s leaders and help ensure the VFW Department of California’s voice is heard in the actions and efforts for the coming year. Thank you to all who attended the convention!

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127TH

VFW NATIONAL CONVENTION JULY 24–30, 2026 RENO, NEVADA

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WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A DELEGATE?

HOW ARE DELEGATE ELECTED?

Delegates are the voice of the VFW membership. They are given the authority to act as representatives of the views and needs of individual members. Being a Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) delegate is important because it gives local members a direct vote in shaping national legislative goals, electing top leadership, and guiding the organization's advocacy on Capitol Hill.

Delegates are elected by the post membership each year in April. The number of delegates a Post is assigned is determined by the total membership numbers as of March 31st with 1 delegate for each 30 members or part thereof. Each Post submits a delegate election report to their District and the Department prior to the State and National Conventions. Each Post pays delegate dues at the District, Department, and National levels, allowing those delegates the opportunity to vote on the meeting/convention floors.

THE CORE RESPONSIBILITIES OF DELEGATES

• Setting Legislative Priorities: Delegates at conventions vote on and adopt the resolutions that form the official VFW National Legislative Program, which dictates what issues the organization lobbies Congress for on behalf of 1.4 million members.

Section 222 of the VFW National Bylaws outlines delegate elections and all members are encouraged to read all relevant bylaws prior to delegate elections each year.

• Electing Leadership: Delegates cast votes to choose national and department-level leaders who direct the vision and operations of the organization. • Governing the Organization: As the official governing body during conventions, delegates have the power to vote on organizational by-laws, policies, and actions like political action committee (PAC) continuations. • Amplifying Local Voices: Delegates ensure that the unique needs of veterans in their specific local posts and communities are heard at state and national levels.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF TRUSTING YOUR DELEGATE

The VFW Department of California is only as strong as our members and the effort they each put in to being active, informed, and involved in our organization. We thank each and every individual who served as a delegate at the State and National Conventions and we look forward to another great turn out next year!

Being a delegate is a serious responsibility. It is their job to make sure they are reflecting the views and wishes of the members they represent. However, members cannot tell a delegate how to vote. Members can only ensure their voices are heard by electing delegates that reflect their own views and wishes for the organizations. Care should be given when electing delegates, because delegates are entrusted to speak for the members of each Post. They are the voice of the membership. DELEGATE STRENGTH AT THE NATIONAL CONVENTION

At the 2026 VFW National Convention, the VFW Department of California had 121 delegates checked in, representing 520 total delegate votes. At the time of voting, the Department’s strength was 326 delegate votes on the floor. Had all of the delegates participated, the Department of California would have had the most votes at convention of any department. Although none of the votes were close calls, delegates still have the obligation to be on the floor during voting to ensure they are fulfilling their duties to their Posts and the members they represent.

Visit us at vfwca.org

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GOLDEN STATE CAPITOL DEFENDERS: OUR CALIFORNIA VETERANS ARE TAKING THEIR VOICES TO WASHINGTON The California VFW National Legislative Team is preparing to advocate on Capitol Hill for veterans and their families this September. The Veterans of Foreign Wars is one of the strongest voices for veterans when decisions affect their benefits, healthcare, families, and futures. The Legislative Committee is ready to advocate for fellow veterans and ensure their voices are heard.

we need anything, not just see us once a year when we arrive in Washington.” California has the nation's largest congressional delegation, making effective advocacy a significant undertaking. To strengthen that effort, the Legislative Team has divided responsibility for congressional offices among its members. Each team member is assigned specific congressional offices and will build relationships with representatives and their staff, track legislation, and communicate the VFW’s priorities throughout the year.

The team will arrive in Washington, D.C., with meetings scheduled, legislative priorities in hand, and a shared mission: to ensure California veterans have a strong voice on Capitol Hill and to build lasting relationships that endure throughout the year.

The Golden State Capitol Defenders are not traveling to Washington for a once-a-year visit; they are building lasting relationships with California’s congressional delegation.

The National Legislative Team’s mission is clear: Defend Veterans’ Voices on Capitol Hill, Advocate, Legislate, Protect, Serve.

MEET THE TEAM

“Our goal is continuity,” said Maryann Enciso, the California VFW National Legislative Team Lead. “We want our representatives and their staffs to know us before

Maryann Enciso, California National Legislative Team Lead and a veteran of both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Air Force, leads the California advocacy effort alongside Tim Bryant, National Legislative Committee Chairman and a U.S. Air Force veteran. The Golden State Capitol Defenders also include: • Art Napiwocki, U.S. Navy • Wesley Tucker, U.S. Army • John Sullivan, U.S. Navy • Bob Hoffman, U.S. Army • Rob Cancio, U.S. Army • Shadic Anderson, U.S. Marine Corps Together, the team has divided responsibility for California’s congressional offices, giving Districts and Posts a connection to advocates who may already have relationships with congressional staff and who understand the issues affecting their representatives. The trip offers a look at another side of the VFW, where veterans actively engage with lawmakers and ensure their voices shape conversations about benefits, health care, and the future. This September, the Golden State Capitol Defenders will carry California veterans’ voices to Capitol Hill and continue that work long after they return home. Follow along on VFW California’s social media pages for updates on their day-to-day activities.

SIX YEARS, SEVEN MONTHS:

Former POW Colonel Michael Lee Brazelton on captivity, freedom, and those who never came home For most people, “POW/MIA” is a familiar phrase. But behind those six letters lie stories of courage, endurance, and uncertainty, and families who have spent decades waiting for answers.

On September 18, the nation observes POW/MIA Recognition Day, honoring those who were prisoners of war and remembering more than 1,500 American service members still unaccounted for. For Colonel Michael Lee Brazelton, U.S. Air Force (Ret.), that mission is deeply personal. Brazelton will serve as the keynote speaker at the VFW Department of California’s POW/MIA Recognition Ceremony on September 19, where he will share his story of nearly seven years as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War. Born in Inglewood, California, Brazelton earned a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering before joining the U.S. Air Force. After completing pilot and F-105 combat crew training, he was assigned to the 357th Tactical Fighter Squadron of the 355th Tactical Fighter Wing at Takhli Royal Thai Air Base in Thailand. His first operational assignment quickly became a defining chapter in his life. On August 7, 1966, during his 111th combat mission, Brazelton’s F-105 was shot down by antiaircraft fire near Thai Nguyen, about 39 miles north of Hanoi. He was captured by North Vietnamese militia and held as a prisoner of war until his release on March 4, 1973.

Colonel Michael Lee Brazelton with his F-105 Takhli in 1965.

In total, Brazelton spent six years and seven months as a POW. His military decorations include four Silver Stars, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars with Valor, eight Air Medals, and two Purple Hearts. Yet despite the recognition he has received for his service and courage, Brazelton is quick to put those honors in perspective. “I look at awards and decorations as the way my country has of saying thank you for doing your best,” he said. “None of the POWs regard themselves as heroes because of what we went through and the awards we received.” For Brazelton, sharing his experience is not about recognition. It is about helping others understand what being a POW truly meant. During his presentation at the Department’s ceremony, Brazelton plans to walk attendees through his experience, from the day he was shot down to his repatriation in 1973. He describes it as the story of all POWs and plans to leave time for questions. He particularly values speaking to military audiences.

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Michael L. Brazelton meeting his family, March 1973

“I like to think I have something to say that they might be able to use someday,” Brazelton said.

unaccounted for, and whose families still wait to learn the fate of their loved ones.”

That message is important because, as Brazelton points out, the reality of being a POW can be difficult to fully grasp for those who have never experienced it. “I think that the term ‘POW’ is abstract to most people,” he said. “They can’t feel the emotions of men who are separated from their families and friends for years.”

For some families, the wait can span generations. “I have the deepest sympathy for Gold Star families of MIAs,” Brazelton said. “They have an emptiness in their lives that can’t be filled until the remains of their loved ones are returned home or they receive a definitive accounting of their fate.” He also knows that, over time, the people still waiting for answers are growing older. For Brazelton, remembering POWs and MIAs is not simply about looking back at history. It is about recognizing the families who continue to carry that history with them.

Behind the designation lie years of discomfort, loneliness, isolation, and pain, along with the constant effort to resist an enemy determined to exploit prisoners for propaganda. The experience of captivity did not end when Brazelton returned home. His time as a POW also gave him a personal understanding of what families of missing service members endure.

“I HAVE THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY FOR GOLD STAR FAMILIES OF MIAS. THEY HAVE AN EMPTINESS IN THEIR LIVES THAT CAN’T BE FILLED UNTIL THE REMAINS OF THEIR LOVED ONES ARE RETURNED HOME OR THEY RECEIVE A DEFINITIVE ACCOUNTING OF THEIR FATE.”

Brazelton was classified as MIA for four years. He later came to understand the impact that uncertainty had on his parents and sisters. That experience is one reason why POW/MIA Recognition Day remains so meaningful to him. “It is a day that acknowledges the fact that POWs went through a unique experience in which we were called upon to serve our country under difficult circumstances,” Brazelton said. “More than that, it reminds us that there are still over 1,500 Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, and Airmen who are

-Michael Lee Brazelton

Ceremony at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. As Colonel Brazelton shares his story, attendees will hear from someone who lived through captivity while honoring those who never returned home and the families who continue to wait.

It is also about ensuring that those who remain unaccounted for are never forgotten. Brazelton encourages fellow former POWs to stay involved in efforts to account for America’s MIAs, even as the number of surviving Vietnam-era POWs continues to decline.

For Brazelton, that is what POW/MIA truly represents: honoring those who went into harm’s way, seeking answers for those still unaccounted for, and ensuring they are never forgotten.

More than half of the Vietnam POWs have passed away, he said, and those who remain are now in their 80s and 90s. Their firsthand memories are becoming rarer and more important. Despite everything he endured, Brazelton’s definition of freedom remains remarkably simple. “It means being home with my family and enjoying the blessings of our wonderful country.” That perspective lies at the heart of POW/MIA Recognition Day. It is a reminder that freedom carries a cost, that those who serve can be called upon to face unimaginable hardship, and that some families are still waiting for the most basic question of all: What happened to their loved one?

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

On September 19, VFW members from across California will gather for the Department’s POW/MIA Recognition

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT

Rob Cancio

Shining Light on a Sacred Space District 4 Commander, Rob Cancio, grew up riding his bike around town and never thought twice about the local VFW Post he passed by daily. It was a quiet windowless mystery. Years later, as a veteran without cable TV looking to avoid large crowds and loud noises, it seemed like the perfect place to watch the Dodgers game. He didn’t go in needing help or looking for camaraderie. But what he found shines a light on the importance of community and the crucial need for sacred spaces where veterans can connect, find purpose, and continue serving together.

VFW HALLS ARE NOT JUST BARS, OR DARK GLOOMY PLACES. MEMBERS ARE COMMUNITY LEADERS, THEY ARE ACTIVIST FOR VETERANS BENEFITS, AND THEY ARE SERVANTS IN THEIR COMMUNITY.

Cancio served in the US Navy from 2005-2009 as a Cryptologic Technician and earned his eligibility for the VFW while deployed to the Persian Gulf onboard USS Preble. He first stepped inside his local VFW hall around 2021 with the intention of keeping to himself and focusing on watching the Dodgers game. The Post Commander at the time had other plans though, after learning about Cancio’s VFW eligibility. He saw an opportunity to make a connection, and he stayed with Cancio throughout the game, signing him up for a VFW membership and reinforcing the importance of the little moments that make a big difference in the lives of individuals and the community. Many people assume it is the big or dramatic moments that stand out above the rest. In reality, the little everyday encounters and connections rise above all else. This held true for Cancio during his military service and in the years afterwards. Cancio’s recalls how his buddies got together to celebrate

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his birthday while deployed. He said, “they pooled their money to buy a bunch of junk food like candies, kit-kats, and twinkies, and they put it together into a kind of cake to surprise me. It wasn’t glamorous or dramatic, but it was a moment of really feeling like a family. They did what they could at the time, even if it wasn’t much, just to make sure I felt human. It meant so much and really showed how we were all there for each other. Our service was an extension of each other.”

The VFW is an outlet for that love of service and he believes everyone can thrive as long as we “remember our why and our north star, not letting the extras get in the way.” He said, “we have to conserve that sacred space while opening the doors and shedding light on the great work we are doing to recruit new members and give back to our community.” Cancio is a VFW Gold Legacy Life Member of Post 9148 in La Mirada and still serves in the US Army Reserve as a Civil Affairs Officer. In addition to his role as the District 4 Commander, he also serves as the VFW Department of California POW/MIA Chairman and the President of the Board of the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District Board of Education. He has received a variety of honors and awards for his military service and truly embodies the spirit of #StillServing.

This sense of connection and shared service is something Cancio found once again within his local VFW Post, calling it “a sacred space where it doesn’t matter your age, your background, your branch or years of service; it is a band of brothers.” He shared a Shakespeare quote from Henry V, “We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; / For he to-day that sheds his blood with me / Shall be my brother.” The quote inspired his initial enlistment and he found it spoke of the brotherhood he found in the military and in the VFW.

Get to know Rob Cancio more by visiting: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default. asp?pid=74101&d=y&subid=83201

Finding a familiar sense of connection in the VFW motivated Cancio to accept leadership roles, where he could help foster the environment that made a difference in his life and the lives of those around him. Cancio highlighted the importance of the VFW as a sacred space where veterans could rediscover the brotherhood and camaraderie that they relied on while serving. VFW halls are not just bars, or dark gloomy places. Members are community leaders, they are activists for veterans benefits, and they are servants in their community. Cancio spoke of the diverse talents and gifts he has seen amongst members, saying, “everyone has their own superpower, some people are good at finance or marketing or event planning, but time and time again I have seen that veterans realize we love service long after we left the military.”

LEAVING CALIFORNIA’S LEGACY AT THE VFW NATIONAL HOME When members visit Tribute Park at the VFW National Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, they see monuments and memorials honoring VFW Departments and organizations from across the country. Each one tells a story of service, sacrifice, and a lasting commitment to the National Home's mission. But one thing is missing: California. The Department of California, in partnership with the Military Order of the Cootie (MOC) and the Military Order of the Cootie Auxiliary (MOCA), has launched a multi-year fundraising campaign to establish California’s first monument in Tribute Park. More than a marker, it will serve as a lasting symbol of our Department’s commitment to veterans and military families for generations to come.

THE DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE MILITARY ORDER OF THE COOTIE (MOC) AND THE MILITARY ORDER OF THE COOTIE AUXILIARY (MOCA), HAS LAUNCHED A MULTI-YEAR FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN TO ESTABLISH CALIFORNIA’S FIRST MONUMENT IN TRIBUTE PARK.

A committee representing each organization has been formed to oversee the project from start to finish. The Department of California is represented by Paula Jansen, State Commander; Mark Steinberg (VFW); Helen Steinberg (Auxiliary); Robbie Normand (MOC); and LeAnna Brown (MOCA). In coordination with the National Home, the committee will develop the final design, obtain project estimates, and oversee the monument through installation, currently anticipated for 2028. The exact design has not yet been selected. Whether it becomes a memorial bench, an engraved stone, an upright monument, a brass plaque, or another meaningful tribute, the goal remains the same: to ensure California has a permanent place within Tribute Park. The project also supports the future of the VFW National Home. When a monument is placed in Tribute Park, the net donation goes to the Amy Ross Permanently Restricted Endowment Fund. While the principal remains untouched, the fund’s earnings support the National Home’s day-to-day operations, ensuring it can continue serving military and veteran families for years to come. Posts, Districts, Auxiliaries, Pup Tents, and individual members are invited to participate in this statewide effort. Donations may be made from Post Relief or Poppy Funds and should be designated for the National Home Monument/ Special Project. This project is about more than stone, bronze, or engraved names. It is an opportunity for every Post, District, Auxiliary, Pup Tent, and member to contribute to something that will endure for decades, serving as a visible reminder that California answered the call. THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE ALREADY DONATED.

CMDR Paula Jansen PSC Dave Kuta District 17 Post 10125 District 2 District 4

District 4 Auxiliary District 8 District 3 Post 8743 Post 7907 District 15 CMDR

Brent Shires Department Auxiliary Military Order of Cooties California District 11

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VFW DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA 2026-2027 DEPARTMENT PROGRAMS The VFW Department of California is excited to announce the 2026-2027 Department Programs! Below you will find a list of each program for this year, along with a link to view the program flyer and program page on the Department website. For any questions about individual programs, please reach out to the program chairman. 2026-2027 PROGRAMS

Adaptive Sports Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ AdaptiveSportsProgram.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=145751

Legislative Team Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ LegislativeTeamFlyer.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=85523

All-American Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ California_VFW_All_American_101_Posts_15_ Districts_2025-2026_Final.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=147593

Membership Challenge Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ MembershipChallengeFlyer.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=78096 National Home California Monument Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ newstatemonument(2).pdf Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=160257

All-State Membership Programs Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ California_VFW_All_State_Posts_2025-2026_Final.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=147593

POW/MIA Program POW/MIA Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/ 2026ProgramFlyers/FinalPOW_MIA.png NVS/DPAA Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/ 2026ProgramFlyers/NVSDPAAFlyer.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74097

Buddy Poppy Program Flyer: https://vfwca.org/uploads/documents/ 2026ProgramFlyers/BuddyPoppy.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74099 Community Service Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ CommunityService.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=80019

Public Servant Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ PublicServantFlyer.pdf Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=155313

Combat Tested Gaming Program Flyer: https://vfwca.org/uploads/ documents/2026ProgramFlyers/CTG.jpeg Link: https://vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default. asp?pid=147721

Student Veterans of American Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/ 2026ProgramFlyers/SVAFlyer.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=146034 Tax Chairman Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ TaxChairmanFlyer.png

Day of Service Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/ 2026ProgramFlyers/DayofServiceFlyer.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=146910

Teacher of the Year Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/ 2026ProgramFlyers/TeacheroftheYear.png Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74107

Historian Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/ 2026ProgramFlyers/Historian.png

Youth Scholarship Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/ 2026ProgramFlyers/VODPP.png Patriot Pen: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74118 Voice of Democracy: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default. asp?pid=74120

Inspections Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ Inspections26_27Flyer.pdf Link: vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=158232 Legacy Life Membership Program Flyer: vfwca.org/uploads/documents/2026ProgramFlyers/ LegacyLifeMembership.png

FALL 2026 · VFWCA.ORG

WHAT TO SAY WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY This is a dilemma we all eventually face, not just us chaplains. We are often confronted with another’s bad news. It can be a death, divorce, terminal diagnosis etc. As friends and comrades we want to connect with the person to bring them comfort and demonstrate our support. The challenge is what to say in such a difficult situation. We might feel we have to break the awkward silence. We might feel we have to say something comforting or philosophical. But do we? Unfortunately, this awkward silence leads to some saying the wrong thing. I'll give you some examples. “I know just how you feel” No, actually you don’t. You may have gone through the same thing but each of us experiences it differently, so we really don’t know how they really feel. I heard of someone telling her friend who lost her mother say “I know how you feel, my cat died 2 weeks ago.” How about when someone loses a loved one. A child for example. What do people say? “God needed him more than you did” or “God needed one more angel in heaven”. The list goes on and on. The message here is that you don’t have to say anything. Saying the wrong thing is worse than silence. Saying the wrong thing minimizes, devalues, or trivializes their emotional pain. Another way people say the wrong thing is when they make it about themselves. For example they talk about a trial they went through. “Here is what I went through, and this is what I did.” That doesn’t help either. What people need is just you being there. Period. I remember many years ago my daughter was in the NICU critically ill and a chaplain was there. I don’t remember a thing he said but I sure remember him being there. Do you need to say something? No. Then what can you do? Get them a cup of coffee, get them a meal, help them with some tasks they can’t handle while in crisis mode. Your actions are more valuable than your words and your actions are remembered long after your words are forgotten. Sometimes the best thing you can say is a hug. It communicates more than your words often can.

STATE CHAPLAIN Frank Correa

“YOUR ACTIONS ARE MORE VALUABLE THAN YOUR WORDS AND YOUR ACTIONS ARE REMEMBERED LONG AFTER YOUR WORDS ARE FORGOTTEN. SOMETIMES THE BEST THING YOU CAN SAY IS A HUG. IT COMMUNICATES MORE THAN YOUR WORDS OFTEN CAN.” -Frank Correa, State Chaplin

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FALL 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.

TOPGOLF:

UNDER ARMOUR:

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE:

As the weather starts to cool down, there’s no better time to head to Topgolf. Through the Topgolf Heroes program, Topgolf offers 10% off game play as a thank-you for your service. This is the perfect time to gather your friends and family and tee up for a fun day. To take advantage of this offer, Veterans can follow these simple steps:

Refresh your gear for cooler weather with a wide variety of styles and options through Under Armour’s Military discount. Under Armour offers 20% off your online purchases. To take advantage of this offer, Veterans can follow these simple steps:

As fall brings football weekends, family gatherings, and busy schedules, the Outback Steakhouse Heroes discount makes dining out even better. To take advantage of this offer, Veterans can follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the Topgolf Website: Select Play, scroll down, select “Heroes Program,” book ahead, or visit your nearest Topgolf location. 2. Verify Your Service: Show a valid ID to your Topgolf Bay Host upon arrival.

1. Shop Your Gear: Visit the Under Armour website, browse, and select your favorite items online.

1. Visit Your Local Outback Steakhouse: Order and enjoy your favorite dishes.

2. Verify Your Service: Complete the ID.me verification at checkout.

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

3. Enjoy the Savings: Receive 20% off your purchase; exclusions apply.

3. Enjoy the Savings: 10% off your entire check, exclusions apply.

www.underarmour.com

www.outback.com

3. Enjoy the Savings: Get 10% off your Topgolf visit. www.topgolf.com

EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE POST 8063

On July 8, 2026, the founder and CEO of Veterans Accession House, Leonard Ramirez, was presented a donation of $2,000 on behalf of VFW Post 8063. The principal goals of the Veterans Accession House Program are to provide Service Intensive Transitional Housing for veterans experiencing homelessness, to combine housing with supportive services, increase and/or stabilize income, encourage personal growth, and link achievements to employment. In attendance to represent VFW Post 8063 were Byrne Sherwood, Gilbert Rodriguez, and Peter Koebler. VFW Post 8063 mainly serves the cities of Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Walnut Creek, and Pleasant Hill. The Tunnel to Towers (T2T) Foundation brought its "Steel Across America" 25th anniversary tour to Pier 27 in San Francisco on July 10th. The exhibit featured a steel beam recovered from the World Trade Center. This tour honors the sacrifices of first responders and military heroes. Among the guest speakers was the Mayor of San Francisco, Daniel Laurie. Representing VFW Post 8063 and sitting next to the Sheriff of San Francisco, Paul Miyamoto, was Conway Jones, Peter Koebler, and Bill Lew. Conway Jones also attended the event to represent his son, Eric Jones, who was awarded the Medal of Valor as a direct result of his heroic actions immediately following the attacks on 9/11. POST 9934

Post 9934 (Dana Point) and its auxiliary spent time with veterans at the VA hospital, hosting a fun-filled game of Bingo! A fun way to enjoy laughter and stay connected with veterans in their community.

FALL 2026 · VFWCA.ORG

EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE POST 9896

VFW Post 9896 in Chowchilla celebrated the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of a new VA ATLAS Center, bringing virtual VA appointments and services closer to veterans in Chowchilla and surrounding communities. The new center is only the second VA ATLAS Center in California, with both located in District 9 and one of just 19 nationwide. Veterans can now access VA care, primary care appointments, mental health support, and referrals in a private, comfortable setting, without the long drive to Fresno. This project took three years to make and is a true VFW and American Legion partnership, showing what we can accomplish when we work together to serve our veterans. POST 1513

VFW Post 1513 (Escondido) had a cleanup day at Dixon Lake, covering nearly the entire perimeter, picking up trash and leaving the lake cleaner than they found it. An amazing way to take care of their community!

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