THE CALIFORNIA VETERAN
EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS
NO VETERAN LEFT BEHIND PAGE 6
WHAT IS THE GOLDEN STATE GUARDIANS FOUNDATION? PAGE 16
EVERYTHING WE DO, WE DO FOR VETERANS
INSIDE THE ISSUE
A MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER
PAGE 2
NO VETERAN LEFT BEHIND
PAGE 6
VFW DEBUTS NEW TOOL TO STREAMLINE
VA BENEFITS ASSISTANCE
PAGE 8
VFW DAY OF SERVICE
PAGE 10
HOW A VIDEO GAME COMMUNITY BECAME A MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR MILITARY VETERANS
PAGE 12
UNDERSTANDING INSPECTIONS
PAGE 15
WHAT IS THE GOLDEN STATE GUARDIANS FOUNDATION?
PAGE 16
FORGIVE AND FORGET?
PAGE 17
VFW ANNOUNCES THEMES FOR 2026-2027
YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS
PAGE 18
VETERANS FREEBIES OR DISCOUNTS
PAGE 19
EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE
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!
MESSAGE FROM THE STATE COMMANDER
STATE COMMANDER
David Kuta
“WHAT WE DO AS A VFW POST CAUSES COMMUNITIES TO TAKE NOTICE OF HOW WE DEMONSTRATE WHAT VETERANS ARE!”
-David Kuta, State Commander
Comrades,
I have had the pleasure of traveling to so many of the areas of our great state which are home to the outposts of Veteran support located in various towns and cities. These outposts are much like the Forward Operating Bases or FOB’s we pulled duty at throughout our military careers. I call these outposts because our VFW Posts are on the front lines of Veteran life support. What we do as a VFW post causes communities to take notice of how we demonstrate what Veterans are! Do we take care of each other, demonstrating the fact that we ARE part of the community, or do we hide away only coming out when the lights get turned off at night? As Veterans, we represent people who know how to get anything completed. To give guidance and lead forward to any goal needing achievement. We are the best prepared people to make our communities better.
I want us all to ask ourselves why we are here, in this organization? Because it’s very easy to lose sight of what we joined for and what we want to help with. We all start out committed to helping Veterans and their families. Because they are OUR family and we believe we know what they need best! That’s commitment and it is a great thing when focused correctly. But when we let egos and personal agenda’s enter into the cause, we very quickly lose sight of our mission and then we fracture as an organization.
SPRING 2026
We have the knowledge, skills, and abilities in all of our members to strengthen our course and do incredible things, if we don’t concern ourselves with who gets the credit! We have many challenges ahead of us, but we don’t need to throw on those things that weigh us down and do NOT achieve our mission. The mission that states we are here to foster camaraderie first, become united as comrades and celebrate together! Not fighting and bickering and trash-talking each other in an organization that needs ALL of us to work together. Otherwise, we will surely go away, and you can tell everyone who’ll listen, how you used to be part of a great Veteran support organization called the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. And when they ask why they went away, what will you say?
It has been my honor and privilege to lead this great Department of California as its Commander and I ask you to think and act upon the question posed, why are you here? Hopefully it will help you rethink your focus and recommit to bringing our organization into the future, maintaining the legacy paid for with many lives of volunteer spirit that has been here since 1899.
Thank you all for supporting me in my year as the guide and leader of the California VFW
David Kuta
Commander
VFW Department of California
Comrades,
We are in the 4th quarter and now is the time to push hard to the finish line. It is a busy time of year with a lot of administrative tasks and preparations on our plates.
Now is the time to check all your items on dashboard and good standing reports, making sure you have credit for everything you should. Should you find an error please reach out to Department at info@vfwca.org.
This is also the time of year to start getting your files together as turnovers should be happening in the next couple of weeks. Remember that everyone in the Department takes their new positions on June 20th, the day the state commander is sworn in. Dave's year is not over yet; we still have until June 30th to get things done. This includes resolving inspection items and
reaching membership goals. We should all be leaving our posts in better shape than when we took office last year.
Recently I sent a list to all the District Commanders that contained every Post that could qualify or has qualified for All American. It contained complete directions for the items that are outstanding. Due to all the hard work this year the Department could have 170 Post/Districts qualify for All American, and 60 Post/Districts have already qualified for All State. We will also reach 7 million in community service for the third year in a row. I know we have done so many things worth celebrating.
Let’s keep up the good work until the last day.
Paula Janson Sr Vice Commander 2025/2026
“WE ARE IN THE 4TH QUARTER AND NOW IS THE TIME TO PUSH HARD TO THE FINISH LINE. IT IS A BUSY TIME OF YEAR WITH A LOT OF ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS AND PREPARATIONS ON OUR PLATES.”
-Paula Janson, Senior Vice Commander
SENIOR VICE COMMANDER
Paula Jansen
NO VETERAN LEFT BEHIND
ARE YOU MAKING THE MOST OF THE BENEFITS AND RESOURCES YOU HAVE EARNED THROUGH YOUR MILITARY
SERVICEMEMBERS AND VETERANS HAVE ACCESS TO BENEFITS BECAUSE THEY DESERVE AUXILIARY COMPENSATION FOR THEIR TIME AND SACRIFICES IN SERVICING OUR NATION. WHETHER IT IS HEALTHCARE SERVICES, ASSISTANCE PAYING BILLS DURING DIFFICULT TIMES, HOUSING ASSISTANCE, OR OTHER NEEDS, WE ENCOURAGE EACH AND EVERY ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUAL TO TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF WHAT IS OFFERED TO THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES.
SERVICE?
“Oh, those services aren’t for me”
“I probably don’t qualify for that.”
“I didn’t earn those benefits.”
“I don’t really need that.”
“I only…”
There are many reasons a veteran might convince themselves not to utilize the services and benefits available to them. However, as a veteran, you signed a contract with the government. You offered your time and energy, your health and wellbeing, and even up to your lives to defend and uphold the ideals of our nation. In exchange, the government paid you during your service and now offers a wide range of benefits and resources to help ensure you are taken care of in whatever way you need. These benefits are EARNED.
Servicemembers and veterans have access to these benefits because they deserve auxiliary compensation for their time and sacrifices in servicing our nation. Whether it is healthcare services, assistance paying bills during difficult times, housing assistance, or other needs, we encourage each and every eligible individual to take full advantage of what is offered to them and their families.
HOW TO ACCESS YOUR BENEFITS
VFW Service Officers located at the VA Regional Offices in San Diego and Sacramento are accredited and certified by the VA and fight for the rights of our Nation's veterans on a daily basis. These highly trained professionals, specializing in all programs administered by the VA, stand ready and willing to provide whatever assistance is required. These services are available at no cost to veterans or their dependents! Nor does one have to be a member of the VFW to receive these services.
From a simple request of a discharge document to a case with complicated issues that may require extensive medical and Court Cases research, VFW Service Officers will exhaust all means to obtain a favorable decision. In the event a claim is denied they can represent the case through the appellate process to the Board of Veterans Appeals (VBA) and if not successful to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC) if warranted.
No veteran should be left behind. Whatever it is you need to survive and thrive, we encourage you to take what you have earned. Make the most of the benefits offered to you. Connect with a service officer today to see what you might qualify for.
https://vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74108
HEALTHCARE SERVICES
VA HEALTH CARE
The largest and most prominent benefit available to veterans is VA health care. Each Veteran’s medical benefits package is unique, but they are all designed to help individuals improve and maintain their health and wellbeing.
Some veterans may be eligible for additional services such as long-term care, dental care and vision care.
https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/ COVERED CALIFORNIA
If you are enrolled in VA Health Care, but your dependents are not eligible, they may be able to receive health care coverage through Covered California. Depending on your family’s household size and yearly income, they may also be able to get help paying for a Covered California health plan or to get low- or no- cost Medi-Cal.
https://www.calvet.ca.gov/VetServices/Pages/CoveredCalifornia.aspx
EDUCATION AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT
EDUCATIONAL FUNDING
As a veteran, there is a variety of programs designed to help you further your education and career goals. This includes funding for apprenticeship and on-the-job training, college degree and certificate programs, and more.
The GI Bill Comparison Tool can help you determine which program might be the right fit.
https://www.va.gov/education/gi-bill-comparison-tool/
EMPLOYMENT AND BUSINESS RESOURCES
From business licenses, taxes and fee waivers to veteran hiring preferences, the state of California offers many opportunities for veterans looking to transition to civilian careers or reenter the workforce.
https://www.calvet.ca.gov/veteran-services-benefits/ employment
HOUSING AND TRANSPORTATION
HOUSING BENEFITS
Having access to adequate housing that fits the needs of individuals and their families is vital.
For homeless or unhoused veterans, available program include the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) Program, which assists with the rent payments and the Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF) program, which funds programs designed to improve housing stability for very low-income veteran families.
https://www.calvet.ca.gov/VetServices/Pages/HousingSupportive-Services.aspx
CALVET HOME LOANS
CalVet Home Loans can cover a variety of situations, whether you are purchasing a new home, building on land you already own, or updating your existing home. These loans also give you access to special insurance coverage.
https://www.calvet.ca.gov/HomeLoans/Pages/OurProducts.aspx
VFW DEBUTS NEW TOOL TO STREAMLINE VA BENEFITS ASSISTANCE
Free, skilled, accredited representation is now just a few clicks away
WASHINGTON — The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) announced today the launch of a new online tool designed to simplify and accelerate the process for veterans seeking help filing for their earned U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits.
The new system allows veterans, service members within 180 days of separation and survivors to complete a brief online form that instantly generates a case record in the assigned VFW Accredited Service Officer’s system, enabling an efficient review of qualifying information and expediting the initial intake and follow up period.
“For more than a century, the VFW has helped veterans navigate and access the benefits they earned through their service – last year we recovered $16.2 billion from the VA on their behalf,” said Mike Figlioli, VFW Director of National Veterans Service. “This new tool removes unnecessary barriers and connects veterans with expert help faster than ever before.”
VFW representatives are professionally trained and accredited to represent veterans before the VA. They provide free assistance with filing disability claims, appealing decisions and accessing a wide range of benefits and services. Furthermore, they provide a lifelong continuum of support, helping veterans navigate their benefits from their first claim through every stage that follows.
“FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY, THE VFW HAS HELPED VETERANS NAVIGATE AND ACCESS THE BENEFITS THEY EARNED THROUGH THEIR SERVICE – LAST YEAR WE RECOVERED $16.2 BILLION FROM THE VA ON THEIR BEHALF. THIS NEW TOOL REMOVES UNNECESSARY BARRIERS AND
CONNECTS VETERANS
WITH
EXPERT HELP FASTER THAN EVER BEFORE.”
-Mike Figlioli, VFW Director of National Veterans Service
By automating the initial intake process, the new tool ensures that veterans are connected to the right representative quickly and efficiently.
The new system is designed to reduce paperwork, eliminate confusion and streamline communication between veterans and their VFW representative. With just a few simple questions, veterans can begin the process of receiving personalized assistance while ensuring their information is securely transmitted and immediately available to the representative assigned to their case.
“This is about meeting veterans where they are,” added Figlioli. “Whether they’re just beginning the claims process or need help with an appeal, this tool helps ensure they are connected with a trained advocate who will stand with them every step of the way.”
The VFW encourages veterans and survivors to use the new online tool as the first step in accessing the benefits they earned through their military service.
To learn more or begin the process, visit claims.vfw.org.
VFW DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA POSTS SHOWED UP STRONG FOR THE ANNUAL VFW DAY OF SERVICE THIS YEAR
Kicking off on Saturday, May 2nd, events and activities were held around the state and the nation to capture a spirit of service and giving back to our communities.
VFW Posts 7907 (Poway), 3787 (Mission Valley), 1512 (Encanto), 2814 (Atascadero), and 4089 (Temecula) rolled up their sleeves to clean up and give back, making their communities brighter and better for all. Post 233 (Desert Edge), Post 9327 (Santee), Post 1525 (Clayton), Post 2082 (Lemon Grove), Post 5867 (Lakeside), Post 1051 (Ripon), and Post 7041 (Vista) took part in everything from city cleanups and food drives to CPR certifications and improving community spaces.
Service doesn’t stop after the uniform; it continues right here at home, and we are proud of all VFW members and supporters who participated in Day of Service this year! Thank you for all you do!
HOW A VIDEO GAME COMMUNITY BECAME A MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR MILITARY VETERANS
Throwback Article by Aliza
Rosen, Johns Hopkins
Bloomberg School of Public Health, published September 2024
A GROUP OF GAMERS BUILT A PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM TO HELP EACH OTHER THROUGH CRISES. THEIR EFFORTS COULD HELP INFORM HOW OTHER ONLINE COMMUNITIES SUPPORT THE MENTAL HEALTH OF THEIR MEMBERS.
Ever since video games became mainstream decades ago, there have been questions about their negative effects: Are they addictive? Can violent games lead to violent real-world behavior? How do they impact sleep, academic performance, or interpersonal relationships? All valid questions with no shortage of studies attempting to answer them.
But can video games—and the communities that form around them—also have positive effects? That’s what Michelle Colder Carras, PhD ’15, a senior associate in International Health and the Center for Global Digital Health Innovation, has been working to understand.
Colder Carras researches digital well-being and how people can balance the benefits with potential drawbacks. In a study published in July, she evaluated how one gaming community implemented supports and interventions for members experiencing mental health crises.
HOW DIGITAL COMMUNITIES FOSTER CONNECTION
Online spaces like forums, chat rooms, social media, and video games offer individuals a way to connect that may not be as easy—or even possible—in real life. Most digital communities allow members to remain anonymous and make it easy to find others who share their interests, values, and identities—including ones they don’t express outwardly in their everyday lives.
The communities that form around video games are facilitated by the new ways of interacting online that have come about over the last several years. To collaborate, players often use tools beyond the game, such as platforms like Discord, where groups can converse via text or voice chat. These platforms also allow gamers to stay connected when they’re not playing.
When Colder Carras began looking at the effects of digital media in 2011, “the idea of online communities as being a potential benefit was really not something we thought of in public health,” she says in an episode of the Public Health On Call podcast. But as the COVID pandemic brought many digital communications into the mainstream, there
has also come a broader understanding that these forms of communication can help people. For one, connecting mostly anonymously with like-minded peers can make some people feel comfortable opening up about struggles they might otherwise keep to themselves.
HOW A COMMUNITY OF VETERAN GAMERS BUILT THEIR OWN CRISIS INTERVENTION PROGRAM
When he returned from military service in Iraq, U.S. Army Captain Stephen Machuga found that playing video games took his mind off the severe anxiety he was experiencing. In 2015, he founded Stack Up with the goal of using video games to help other veterans and active duty military. The organization sends games and consoles to deployed units and veterans, funds trips to gaming events, and more—all with the mission of supporting mental health.
What Machuga didn’t anticipate was that this initiative would also end up including a 24/7 crisis intervention program. As more veterans, active duty military members, and civilians joined Stack Up’s Discord server to play games together, Colder Carras says, they quickly realized that many members faced challenging life situations—like relationship loss or
financial ruin—and felt overwhelmed and unable to cope. What’s more: they trusted each other—peers with shared experiences and love for video games—to help them through crises and mental health struggles.
So the members of Stack Up came up with a way to help themselves: Two first responders in the community created the Stack Up Overwatch Program (StOP), which officially launched in 2018, to offer 24/7 peer-based mental health and crisis support. The group worked with the PsychArmor Institute—a nonprofit that educates people on how to support military members and veterans—to formalize the nearly 40hour training process of becoming a StOP volunteer.
The volunteers went through “similar types of training that community health workers or paraprofessional frontline health workers might go through,” Colder Carras explains. Through private text-based and voice chats, StOP volunteers helped members access traditional mental health care, lent a listening ear during moments of distress, evaluated the person’s risk of suicide, and counseled them during crises.
EVALUATING StOP AS A PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCHER
Colder Carras learned about StOP at a gaming convention, where Machuga staffeded a booth for Stack Up. This was exactly the type of program she had been wanting to study since pursuing her PhD in public mental health. But studying StOP as an outside observer didn’t feel right; instead, Colder Carras joined the community herself. Transparently as a researcher—who the members came to refer to as “Doc”— Colder Carras worked with Stack Up members to develop the methods and ethical guidelines by which she’d evaluate the program’s effectiveness.
She and her co-authors believe theirs is “the first public health evaluation of an online, community-developed peer support and crisis intervention delivered through Discord.” Nearly 100 surveys and interviews captured in 2020, and analysis of approximately 180,000 chat messages from 2016–2020, showed that, overall, StOP provided meaningful support to members who used it.
ONLINE SPACES LIKE FORUMS, CHAT ROOMS, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND VIDEO GAMES OFFER INDIVIDUALS A WAY TO CONNECT THAT MAY NOT BE AS EASY— OR EVEN POSSIBLE— IN REAL LIFE.
In particular, the research found that:
• Meaningful, anonymous, and always-accessible peer support made StOP an important source of connection, support, and information.
• Users felt comfortable using StOP to discuss private issues with peers and were generally satisfied with the sense of community.
• Participating in StOP helped reduce users’ anxiety and increase their ability to cope.
• Participating in StOP reduced the symptoms that caused users to seek help during a crisis.
• Nearly all user posts were responded to by StOP volunteers quickly—within five minutes.
• Volunteers benefited from the mutual support provided by other volunteers.
TRANSLATING FINDINGS BEYOND StOP
The idea of training peer health workers is not new to public health; the analysis of StOP provides further evidence that it’s not only what services are being delivered, but who is delivering them. “We learned that the people who were delivering the intervention, the peer supporters, almost all of them identified as having the lived experience of some type of mental health problem,” such as PTSD, depression, or anxiety, Colder Carras says.
Colder Carras is encouraged not only by StOP’s effectiveness but the way in which it was developed and executed. “It's a great example of a grassroots program that has the right amount of clinical involvement from someone who is also a member of the community,” she says. She and her fellow researchers believe their insights could be used to inform other research around digital peer support and suicide prevention, and make it easier for other online communities to develop programs to support the mental health of their members.
In the meantime, Colder Carras is continuing her research on video games—both their benefits and drawbacks— from a public health perspective. She’s currently working with Bohemia Interactive Studio, developer of the military simulator game Arma Reforger, on an upcoming tournament that will draw awareness to mental health and gaming. They’re also exploring possibilities for a future research project around gaming and mental health using the same game.
“It’s difficult to create well-controlled studies around video games,” Colder Carras admits, but she’s committed to the work. It’s like doing research on hard mode.
UNDERSTANDING INSPECTIONS
As one of the leading Veteran organizations in the nation, it is our duty to ensure we are maintaining high standards and operations at every level. In order to adequately provide support and services to Veterans, Servicemembers, their families, and our communities, we must operate with organizational consistency across all Posts, Districts and Departments. Part of this is accomplished through inspection protocols designed to ensure all levels are following the standards set forth by the VFW National Headquarters.
While inspections have taken place for many years, the VFW Department of California’s formal process is more recent. Establishing this formal process has allowed Posts and Districts across the state to identify areas for growth and development. The 2025-2026 State Inspector Kenny Lindberg oversaw 256 inspections alongside our Deputy Chiefs of Staff, PSC Tim Bryant (central), Jack Napier (North), and Mike Cano (South). There were 30 inspectors comprised from all districts running these inspections, connecting with leadership at Posts and Districts and working together to help support operational needs.
The primary focus of inspections revolves around record keeping, and ensuring each Post and District accurately holds all necessary records and reports for operation and
membership. Prior to each inspection, Posts and Districts are given a list of the documentation needed and information on how to successfully complete the inspection. Inspectors are trained to work with Post and District leadership to help ensure they pass inspections and have the support needed to thrive.
New for the 2025-2026 year, the Department began an electronic inspections process, on a trial basis. Five Posts and two Districts were able to submit their documentation online and review these both on Zoom and in person. The trial was a great success! The goal is to expand these electronic inspections for up to 60 Posts and Districts next year, who will be selected and invited to participate in this format. Electronic inspections can be completed quickly and efficiently, allowing more time and attention for Posts and Districts who need additional support.
At all levels, inspections are vital to the overall success of the organization, ensuring we all operate with reliability and consistency for our members and our communities.
More information will be available soon at: https://vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=158232
For questions, please contact the State Inspector: https://vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74101
WHAT IS THE GOLDEN STATE GUARDIANS FOUNDATION?
Meet the newest initiative of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California
The Golden State Guardians Foundation (GSG Foundation) is a champion for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. But providing grants, emergency relief, and financial assistance to individuals, families, and organizations across California, the GSG Foundation is able to help address essential needs such as housing, food, education, and medical care for those in need.
Founded in 2019, as the VFW Foundation, the GSG Foundation has evolved and expanded into a new organization, with a mission to address essential human needs by offering broader, statewide support to individuals, families, and communities across California. The GSG Foundation offers a variety of programs and services to achieve this mission. Including:
• Veteran Post Relief
• Student Grants
• Emergency Relief
• Homeless outreach
Since the establishment of the newly named GSG Foundation in 2026, the organization has provided 12 different grants to support approximately 2500 people across the state and continues to expand both services and grant programs.
Applications for assistance are open at scheduled times, but applications for emergency relief funds for individuals and families are accepted year-round. For information about eligibility and how to apply, visit https://gsg-foundation.org/.
PROGRAM SCHEDULE
Application windows and deadlines for our key programs.
Program Dates
Post grant program
($18,000 per year, $3,000 max per application)
Emergency relief fund
July 1st – June 30th
Year-round
Outreach & education Quarterly –see updates
Pass-through Grant (Administrative / Program Management fee) Year-round
Throughout all programs, services, and expansion efforts, fiscal responsibility remains of the utmost importance. The foundation operates with a disciplined commitment to transparency, regulatory compliance, and fiduciary accountability. Every dollar entrusted to the Foundation is deployed to programs that advance inclusion, stability, and sustainable well-being for the individuals and families served.
Overall, the Foundation has seen incredible success in address essential community needs and now anticipates significant expansion over the next 12–24 months, with increased grant availability, expanded service programs, and enhanced statewide collaboration to better serve veterans and the broader community.
For more information about the Golden State Guardians Foundation, visit https://gsg-foundation.org/.
FORGIVE AND FORGET?
We have all grown up knowing that we should forgive others just as we ourselves want to be forgiven. Some of us learned that very principle at an early age while memorizing the Lord’s Prayer. We know that it’s the right thing to do, but most of us were never taught how to forgive. In other words, what does forgiveness really mean and how do you actually do it?
Does this mean we don’t uphold standards or pursue justice? Absolutely not. What I’m referring to is holding on to bitterness and resentment.
This was a burning question I had many years ago and when I finally found the answer, I found it so helpful that I shared it with others and want to share it with you.
Can we forgive? Yes. Can we forget? No. We have all heard time and time again “forgive and forget”. That’s easier said than done. We think we can forgive. But forget? No way.
How soon do we have to forgive? Ephesians 4:26 Don’t let the sun go down on your anger. What that means is don’t wait. Don’t stew over it. Do it ASAP. It serves you no good to hold on to bitterness and resentment. Saint Augustine said "Resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die," He was right.
HOW ARE WE TO FORGIVE?
You may not be able to forget, but you can forgive.
The bible never commands you “to forgive and forget”. If you try to forget you will fail.
Our brains are not like a computer that we can just hit the delete key and it’s magically gone.
Feelings are irrelevant in granting forgiveness. You may be justifiably angry. You may in fact have been truly wronged, so of course you don’t want to, or feel like it.
The key is doing the right thing rather than being controlled by our feelings. Forgiveness is not a feeling, it is a promise. You can make a promise whether or not you feel like it and you can keep it whether or not you feel like it. It’s a choice. Not an easy one, but a good one.
What does real forgiveness entail?
1 A commitment to not raise the issue again
2 Don’t tell anyone else about it.
3 Don’t dwell on it.
When we break it into 3 basic parts it seems achievable. It is! The key is that it is a choice. It’s a good choice. Think of the pros and cons. What does remaining angry gain you? What will forgiving someone gain you? One will negatively affect your physical and mental health and one will improve it. Is it an easy choice? Probably not, but it’s well worth it.
“When you forgive, you in no way change the past; but you sure do change the future.” - Bernard Meltzer
STATE CHAPLAIN
Frank Correa
“RESENTMENT IS LIKE DRINKING POISON AND WAITING FOR THE OTHER PERSON TO DIE.”
-Saint Augustine
VFW ANNOUNCES THEMES FOR 2026-2027 YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS
The Voice of Democracy audio essay program was established in 1947 to provide an opportunity for high school students to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Student participants are entered to win a share of more than $1.6 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. Nearly 28,000 students across the nation and the world participate each year, with the national first place winner receiving a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to their American university, college or vocational/technical school.
THE 2026-27 THEME IS: “WHAT A VETERAN TAUGHT ME ABOUT AMERICA.”
Students in grade six through eight will be encouraged to share their perspectives on this same theme through the Patriot’s Pen annual youth essay contest. The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief.
Submissions for the Voice of Democracy program and the Patriot’s Pen contest are due by midnight on October 31st, 2026. Interested students are encouraged to get started early and find their local VFW Post today!
To learn more about both programs, visit: https://www.vfw.org/community/youth-and-education/ youth-scholarships
AMERICAN FREEDOM POEMS
By Sergeant Richard L Houghtelling Jr., Gulf War Combat Veteran – USMC Title Earned 1981
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/
FREEDOM AND TRUTH
On the front lines, where courage stands tall, Freedom and truth answer history’s call.
One carried high in the banner’s wave,
The other within, where the spirit is brave. The flag unfurls in the breaking dawn, Its colors remind us of battles long gone. Yet truth is the fire that cannot be chained, A light in the soul that forever remains.
Together they march, unbroken, aligned, A bond forged in struggle, eternal, refined. For freedom is hollow without truth’s embrace, And truth finds its strength in freedom’s grace. So onward they go, through shadow and flame, Bearing the weight of honor’s name.
On the front lines, their story is told Freedom in the flag, truth in the soul.
THE SUNRISE WE DEFENDED
We fought not for medals, nor songs of acclaim, but for mornings untouched by sorrow or flame. Not for banners raised high in the echo of cheers, but for silence unbroken by children's fears. We stood in the shadows where tyrants tread, so light could return where the innocent fled.
Our names may fade, our stories grow dim, but the sun rises free on the strength of our hymn.
No glory we sought, no throne to ascend just the promise that daylight would never end.
So when you wake to a sky painted gold, know it was guarded by hearts brave and bold.
The next sunrise belongs to all who dream to the quiet, the weary, the hopeful unseen. And in that light, our purpose is spun: not for glory we fought, but for everyone.
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.
RAY-BAN:
Summer is here, which means the sun is shining brighter and it’s officially time to grab your sunglasses. To help you stay protected, Ray-Ban offers 15% off online for Veterans as a thank-you for your service. To take advantage of this offer, Veterans can follow these simple steps:
1. Shop Your Gear: Browse and select the items you want online, add them to your cart, and select Military discounts.
2. Sign In or Create ID.me Profile: Continue to sign in.
3. Enjoy the Savings: Receive 15% off your purchase.
www.ray-ban.com
THE HOME DEPOT:
Summer brings longer days, more time at home, and the perfect chance to tackle those projects you’ve been putting off. The Home Depot offers 10% off eligible purchases for Veterans in recognition of their bravery and service. To take advantage of this offer, Veterans can follow these simple steps:
1. Verify Eligibility: Visit The Home Depot website, scroll down, and select “Military Discount Benefit” under the “Resources” section to verify eligibility.
2. Shop Your Supplies: Browse and select eligible items online or in store.
3. Enjoy the Savings: Receive 10% off your purchase; exclusions apply.
www.homedepot.com
OLD NAVY:
A wardrobe refresh is always a good idea, especially with more time to get out and enjoy the days ahead. From everyday basics to easy, comfortable styles, Old Navy offers Veterans 10% off in-store as a thank-you for your service. A little extra savings to keep you looking and feeling cool all season long. To take advantage of this offer, Veterans can follow these simple steps:
1. Visit a Store & Shop Your Favorite Looks: Stop by your nearest Old Navy location.
2. Verify Your Service: Present a valid military ID or proof of service at checkout.
3. Enjoy the Savings: 10% off your in-store purchase.
www.oldnavy.gap.com
EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE
POST 1487
VFW Post 1487, part of District 17, proudly hosted its 2nd Annual Crab Feed, bringing the community together for a great cause. Proceeds from the event will provide critical support to veterans across Sacramento, Yolo, Nevada, Placer, El Dorado, and Amador counties, making a meaningful impact.
POST 1956
VFW Post 1956 recognized several outstanding members of their community, including their Patriot’s Pen Finalist, Teacher of the Year, and Public Servant of the Year.
Certificates of Appreciation were also presented to several Scouting American Troops and Packs. Congratulations to all for making a positive impact in the community!
EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE
POST 3173
VFW Post 3173 had a packed house at their community awards dinner! It brought together so many incredible members making a difference, celebrating service, leadership, and the strength of community. Congratulations to all the award recipients, and thank you for making an impact.
POST 7907
VFW Post 7907 celebrated Easter with a fun Easter egg hunt led by Senior Vice Commander Paula Jansen, followed by great food and company and a visit from the Easter bunny!
POST 8310
VFW Post 8310 proudly donated $3,000 from their golf tournament proceeds to HomeAgainLA, supporting efforts to make a real difference in the community.
EVENTS FROM POSTS AROUND THE STATE
AMERICAN INDIAN VETERANS MEMORIAL
Members of the VFW Department of California were honored to attend the unveiling of the American Indian Veterans Memorial at Riverside National Cemetery. With moving remarks from honored guests, the ceremony served as a powerful tribute to the courage, service, and sacrifice of American Indian Veterans.
COMMANDER CUP
District 1’s first annual Commander’s Cup was a great success, bringing together friends, family, and comradeship in a strong showing of unity and support. Congrats to the trophy winners, VFW Post 7907 and to District 1 on such a great day!
