DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA

Transcription

DEPARTMENT
OF
CALIFORNIA
PROGRAM GUIDE
2016-2017
DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA
PROGRAM GUIDEBOOK TABLE OF CONTENTS
Department Reporting Guidelines……………………………………… Page
1
Department Program Deadline Dates….………………………………. Page
2
Buddy Poppy Program……………………………….............................. Pages 3-4
Citizenship Education/Community Service/Safety Recognition……… Page
5-7
Department Education & Training……………..…….…………………. Pages 8-9
Disaster Assistance Program……………………………………………...Pages 10
Homeless Veterans…………………………………………..................... Pages 11-12
LE/FF/EMT Programs…………………………………………….......... Pages 13-16
Legislative Program………………………………………………..
Pages 17-18
Life Membership Program……………………………………………… Pages 19-20
Membership Program……………………………………………………. Pages 21-23
Membership Awards Program………………………………………….. Pages 24-25
National Home……………………………………………….................... Pages 26-27
National Veterans Wheelchair and Golden Age Games………............. Page
28
Patriots Pen………………………………………………………………. Pages 29-33
POW/MIA Program………………………………………...................... Page
34
Public Relations/Publications Contest……………………..................... Pages 35-36
California Veteran Guidelines for Submission…………...………. Pages 37-38
California Veteran Advertising Rates……………………………. Page 39
Scouting & Youth Activities……………...………….…….……………. Pages 40-44
Student Veterans of America……………………………..…………...... Pages 45
Teachers Award……………………………………………..…………... Pages 46-49
VAVS/Hospital/Homes………………………………………..………… Page
Veterans and Military Support………………………………………
50
Pages 51-52
Veterans Services……………………..…………………..……………… Pages 53-54
Voice of Democracy…………………………..………….……………..... Pages 55-60
Women Veterans…………………………………….…….…………….. Page
61
Forms
All-State Program Donations (Form 2)…………………………..
Page
62
Buddy Poppy Order (Form 3a)…………..………………………. Page
63
Buddy Poppy Application for Individual Awards (Form 3b)……
Page
64
Buddy Poppy Report and Application for Awards (Form 3c)…...
Page
65
Disaster Claim Application (Form 7b)…………….……….……. Page
66
National Home Referral of Children (Form 20)………….……….. Page
67
Memorial Service Fund Donation (Form 23)……………..……….. Page
68
Program Sponsorship Registration (Form 25)……………………. Page
69
Service Officer Registration Form (Form S.O.)………………….. Page
70
DEPARTMENT REPORTING GUIDELINES
Reporting starts May 1, 2016 and ends April 30, 2017. Also, programs have changed for the
2016-2017 VFW year. We request Posts report as often as possible and all reporting activities be
done on-line or sent directly to the appropriate chairman.
PLEASE NOTE NEW REPORTING FORM visit our home page at www.vfwca.org or go
to www.ca.vfwportal.net/ and
enter your program reporting information.
PLEASE NOTE – FORM 12’S ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTED
DEPARTMENT CHAIRMEN:
As set forth by our National Organization, the program reporting year ends April 30. Therefore,
to ensure Department has sufficient lead time to prepare citations, plaques, etc. for award
presentation at the Department Convention, Department Chairmen are to submit outstanding
District and Post nominees to reach Department Headquarters not later than May 3, 2017.
Post Login
Username
post number
10040
Password
abc123
District Login
Username
dist1cmdr
dist2cmdr
dist10cmdr
Password
d1
d2
d10
Program Chairman
Username
progrd
Password
prog
NOTE: All reporting forms are now located in the Forms Section of this Program guidebook.
REPORTING OVERVIEW:
It is important that Posts and Auxiliaries form a working relationship for these combined
projects and do not submit “double reporting.”
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2016-2017 VFW PROGRAM DEPARTMENT
DEADLINES
NOVEMBER 2016
Patriot’s Pen student entry due to local VFW Post
Voice of Democracy student entry due to local VFW Post
Nominations for Community Service Special Projects to Department
Public Service National Award (LE/FF/EMT) due to local VFW Post
Patriot’s Pen Post winning entries to District
Voice of Democracy Post winning entries to District
November 1
November 1
November 1
November 1
November 15
November 15
DECEMBER 2016
Public Service National Award (LE/FF/EMT) winning entries to District
Patriot’s Pen District winning entries to Department
Voice of Democracy District winning entries to Department
December 1
December 9
December 9
JANUARY 2017
Public Service National Award (LE/FF/EMT) District entries to Department
Patriot’s Pen Department judging
Voice of Democracy Department judging
Legislator of the Year nominations to Department
January 1
January 1
January 1
January 1
FEBRUARY 2017
Citizenship Education Teacher Award entry due to local VFW Post
February 15
MARCH 2017
Scout of the Year Award student entry to local VFW Post
Citizenship Education Teacher Award winning entries to District
Scout of the Year Award winning entries to District
March 1
March 1
March 15
APRIL 2017
Citizenship Education Teacher Award District winning entries to Department
Scout of the Year District Winners to Department
April 1
April 1
AWARD PRESENTATIONS
Mid-Winter Conference
Patriot’s Pen Awards
Voice of Democracy Awards
Presented Locally by the State Commander or his Designate
Firefighter, Law Enforcement & Emergency Medical Technician Awards
Scout of the Year Award
Citizenship Education Teacher Award
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BUDDY POPPY PROGRAM
Chairman: George L. Reuss
8707 Saint George Street
Spring Valley CA, 91977
Phone# 619-322-7339
Fax: 858-273-1853
Email: [email protected]
THE BUDDY POPPY
The Buddy Poppy, unlike the California State Flower, is red. Since 1915 then during
WWI, the red poppy has grown wild on the battlefields of France, Belgium and the Turkish
battlefields on the peninsula of Gallipoli. In November of 1919, Miss Monia Belle Michael, an
American Women, on duty at the YMCA Overseas War Secretaries’ Headquarters in New York,
read Canadian Army, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae’s poem entitled “In Flanders Field”,
also known as “We Shall Not Sleep”. On that day she vowed always to wear a red poppy of
Flanders Field as a sign of remembrance. Also on that day Monia wrote a poem entitled, “We
Shall Keep the Faith”. Since 1920 the red Memorial Poppy has been known as the United
States’ National Emblem of Remembrance.
From 1919 until 1922 the red poppy was used by many countries as a fundraiser for
veterans. In 1923 The Veterans of Foreign Wars agreed that American Veterans of the Great
War could also benefit from making and selling the red Memorial Poppy. In February 1924, the
name “BUDDY POPPY” was registered as a U.S. Patent. In May 1924 a certificate was issued
to grant trademark rights to the Veterans of Foreign Wars for the manufacture of genuine
“Buddy Poppies”. Since that time, members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars have distributed
Buddy Poppies, usually on Armistice Day, now known as Memorial Day in May and on
Veterans Day in November.
IN FLANDERS FIELDS
WE SHALL KEEP THE FAITH
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
between the crosses, row on row,
that mark our place; and in the sky
the larks, still bravely singing, fly
scarce heard amid the guns below.
Oh! You who sleep in Flanders Fields,
Sleep sweet - to rise anew!
We caught the torch you threw
and holding high, we keep the Faith
with All who died.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
we lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
We cherish, too, the poppy red
that grows on fields where valor led;
it seems to signal to the skies
that blood of heroes never dies,
but lends a luster to the red
of the flower that blooms above the dead
In Flanders Fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
the torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
we shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
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And now the Torch and Poppy Red
we wear in honor of our dead.
Fear not that ye have died for naught;
we’ll teach the lesson that ye wrought
In Flanders Fields.
In Flanders Fields we fought
ORDERING BUDDY POPPIES

Buddy Poppy orders are made through the Department of California using the Buddy
Poppy Order Form (form 3a). Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery. Be advised that
Buddy Poppy facilities are closed beginning mid-November through December. Be sure
that you allow sufficient lead time for your order.

Other Poppy supplies such as cans and boards need to be ordered directly from the
National Headquarters Emblem and Supply Department.

All orders purchased May 1, 2016 through April 30, 2017 shall be credited to the 20162017 operational year.

Buddy Poppies are packaged in increments of 500, 1000, or 2000. Orders for amounts
other than the packaged amount will be shipped in the next higher increment and
invoiced accordingly.

All orders for Buddy Poppies must have a street address for delivery. All orders are
shipped via UPS, and UPS will not deliver to a Post Office Box.

Auxiliaries – Use Form 3a..
BUDDY POPPY PURCHASING GOAL
Proceeds from the purchase of Buddy Poppies go to the Service Fund, a fund that
supports our Veterans and active duty military members.
This year’s expected goal is for each Post to purchase ten (10) poppies per member,
based upon the Post membership as of June 30, 2016. Because poppies are packaged at the
factory in lots of 500, 1000, and 2000 for cost effective shipping, it is incumbent upon Post
Commanders/Quartermasters to round their order to the closest increment of 500.
HOW TO REPORT
Posts will receive credit for purchasing Buddy Poppies when your purchase form 3a is
received and processed by Department Headquarters.
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CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION, COMMUNITY
SERVICE, SAFETY RECOGNITION PROGRAMS
Chairman:
Bernard Ramos
2305 E. Marshall Street
Turlock, CA 95380
(209) 656-8323
[email protected]
Citizenship Education is an unfailing love of country; loyalty to its institutions and ideals;
eagerness to defend it against all enemies; undivided allegiance to the flag; and a desire to secure
the blessings of liberty to posterity and ourselves. Today, Citizenship Education is still around,
but not everywhere. That is why the Veterans of Foreign Wars must promote Citizenship
Education wherever and whenever we can. The VFW's Citizenship Education Program is
designed to stimulate an interest in America's history, its traditions and institutions, as well as
promote patriotism.
In promoting patriotism, we should educate our youth about the importance of three special days
in remembrance of our great country; Loyalty Day, Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars started the observance of May 1st as Loyalty Day in the 1930's as
a deterrent to the anti-American activities of Communist agitators during parades in our country.
It proved to be very effective and was, after many years, officially recognized and signed into
law in 1958.
Memorial Day is about remembering. This day is and should remain, sacred for all veterans.
Veterans Day is a special day for VFW members. Unlike Memorial Day, it is a time to remember
all veterans-both living and dead and their sacrifices. It should not be a day of sadness, but a time
of pride and reflection on what veterans have accomplished and the true freedoms they have
protected.
Post and District Chairman should refer to the National VFW Programs Guide “It’s About
Service”. Citizenship Education materials are available from VFW Emblem and Supply.
AWARDS
Awards will be presented at the State Convention.
 1st Place (Post & District) will be awarded a plaque, based on Chairman
Recommendation.
 2nd and 3rd Place (Post & District) will be awarded a certificate.
OUTSTANDING POST AND AUXILIARY AWARD – THOMAS JEFFERSON AWARD
The Thomas Jefferson Award will be presented to the Post and Auxiliary at the State Convention
who, WORKING TOGETHER, complete the most outstanding program of Citizenship
Education during the reporting year.
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COMMUNITY SERVICE
Community service is an important priority in our country and a founding VFW tenet. The VFW
has a rich tradition associated with community service; member volunteerism benefits education,
the environment, health sciences and civic projects. How a Post interacts with its community
determines the relevancy of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Working closely with other national
organizations, the VFW annually reports over 14 million volunteer hours. Almost anything that
you do in your community is reportable. You’re doing the work so report it and get the
recognition.
Post and District Chairman should refer to the National VFW website www.vfw.org; Programs
menu; click on Community Service and then review the VFW Affiliations listing.
Community Service materials are available from VFW Emblem and Supply, or by visiting
www.vfwstore.org
Important! – To qualify for awards a Post must submit an online report.
AWARDS
Awards, based on Chairman recommendation, will be presented in both categories at the State
Convention as follows unless otherwise noted elsewhere in this guide:


1st Place (Post & District) will be awarded a plaque.
2nd and 3rd Place (Post & District) will be awarded a certificate.
SAFETY RECOGNITION PROGRAMS
The Safety Recognition Programs of the Veteran of Foreign Wars continues to provide and
promote programs designed to safeguard our communities. This long-standing commitment to
safety has grown through the years to include every possible program or event associated with
safeguarding people. Be creative and develop a safety activity and REPORT all
accomplishments using the online reporting system.
The six basic categories in the National Program are as follows:
1. HIGHWAY SAFETY: Any activity intended to improve individual driving skills and
awareness or activities associated with improving safety on our roadways.
2. PEDESTRIAN SAFETY: Any worthwhile activity intended to improve individual
awareness and visibility or non-motorized vehicle riding skills, awareness and
responsibility.
3. RECREATIONAL SAFETY: Any organized activity associated with improving the
skills and responsibilities of those individuals who engage in a recreational activity.
4. HOME/FIRE SAFETY: Activities designed to promote and inform individuals within
the community about protecting their homes, possessions and lives are reportable.
5. DRUG AWARENESS: Any program designed to inform and protect your community
from the influence of substance abuse.
6. RECOGNITION/OTHER: A program to bring public recognition to the people of the
community who spend their work day protecting lives and property. Recognizing the
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heroism/or safety achievements of individuals in the community. This category may be
used to report an activity that does not fit any of the above categories.
Reportable activities include Disaster training, CPR/First Aid classes, providing assistance
during a disaster, or setting up a disaster relief site equipped to house veterans and their
families for at least a twenty-four (24) hour period in case of a major disaster.
AWARDS
Awards, based on Chairman recommendation, will be presented in both categories at the State


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DEPARTMENT EDUCATION & TRAINING PROGRAM
2016-2017
Education & Training Committee
Chairman:
Steve Milano
9136 Elk Grove Blvd
Elk Grove, CA 95833
(H) (916) 509-8712
[email protected]
Vice Chairman: (North)
Deborah Johnson
4001 Rio Viejo Dr.
Bakersfield, CA 93313
(C) (661) 619-6994
[email protected]
Vice Chairman: (South)
Chuck Anfuso
1041 Camino Atajo
Chula Vista, CA 91910
(C) (619) 250-5389
[email protected]
The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California will be implementing a revised
education and training program for the year 2016 - 2017 on the daily operations of a post
with/without canteens. This program will consist of four to six mandatory hours of training to
District Commanders and District Inspectors to give them the tools for Post Operations.
Training will be ongoing as new information becomes available. The State Commander has
appointed two Co-Chairmen to the northern and southern regions for this training.
Expectation for Program:
 Each District will establish a standardized School of Instruction Agenda
 District Inspectors will be trained on how to inspect a Post properly
 Materials must be made available during each training session
 Co-Chairs will monitor to ensure the training meets established standards
 Quarterly Audits and Record Keeping will be a priority
 An open door policy will be made available to any Post member
Overview of the School of Instruction:
o Duties and responsibilities of Elected Post Officers
o Record Keeping/Financial
o By-laws and Manual of Procedures
o VFW Department Programs
o County, State and Federal regulations
o Canteen Operations
o Official forms. Fees. Tax, insurances & etc...
District Inspectors:
o Understanding of By-laws and Manual of Procedures
o Should have some Quartermaster experience
o Conduct a thorough inspection as required on Post Inspection Sheet
o Provide accurate feedback
o Have ability to answer questions
Resource Materials:
o Each Post must possess current issue of VFW National By-Laws, MOP
o VFW Disk – Information from National
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o Informational leaflets and guidebook – Dept. Program Guide Book (available on
line at vfwca.org website)
o General Orders/Memorandums from Department HQ
o All county, state and federal forms
o List of FAQs
Co-Chair’s Responsibility:
o Work with State Inspectors
o Assist the District Commanders if requested in the School of Instruction
o Communicate with District Inspectors/Post Commanders
o Review Training Materials
o Have effective teaching skills
Quarterly Audits and record keeping:
o Maintain Accuracy
o Provide Reconciliations
o Proper approved accounting practices
o Filing and Records
Training Policy:
o Open to suggestions
o Teamwork
o Morale Building
o Positive Feedback
o Members appreciation
The goal of this program is to provide the resources so that each district will have the necessary
tools to maintain a successful and profitable post/canteen. In order for this program to be
effective, we must all work together in helping each other meet our goals. One very important
aspect of this program is that we must be responsible for our own accountability. Commanders
and Officers must work together to provide support to members so each VFW Post can proudly
stand out as a successful organization among their community. Teamwork will be the key to our
success.
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DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The previous Disaster Program funds have been consolidated into the current Department
Assistance Fund, and there is no longer a requirement for a Post to contribute to the Assistance
Programs Fund.
DISASTER ASSISTANCE
The primary purpose of this fund is to provide our members’ assistance of up to $1,000.00
emergency relief assistance in case property is lost due to a fire, flood or other disaster and
reimbursement for costs associated with blood replacement.
COVERAGE
All members in good standing within the Post could receive up to $1,000.00 as emergency
disaster relief upon approval of their application by the Department of California. To make a
claim, use Disaster Claim Application Form (Form-7a) when requesting Disaster Assistance.
DISASTER ASSISTANCE GUIDELINES

Any person receiving funds from the Assistance Fund must be a member in good
standing of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California.
To qualify for an Assistance Fund claim, a member’s recruitment date has to be at least 90
days prior to placing a claim. A person who is qualified to receive assistance is the owner of
his home and is living in it at the time of disaster. A valid claim on a member’s home must
first be substantiated by a Post Commander or Chairman who will investigate this to be true,
and then submit the claim to Department Headquarters, who will then determine the amount
of such claim, not to exceed $1,000.00.

Broken pipes, household accidents, or minor damages to personal property not due to a
major catastrophic event are not eligible for filing a claim under the Assistance Program.

Under no circumstances shall this be used for VFW member/landlords who have suffered
a loss to rental property or for losses incurred by a business or businesses owned by a
member of the VFW.

After any disaster, fire, flood, or earthquake, a mandatory cut-off date will be established.
The aforementioned starts from the 1st day after the event and extends for thirty (30) days
thereafter. This time limit may be extended at the discretion of the State Commander and
the Safety/Recognition Chairman.
HOW TO REPORT
All activities should be reported on-line via the Department website under Safety at
http://www.vfwca.org and click on "REPORTING PROCEDURES AND INFORMATION
MAKE A REPORT; and follow Post login instructions as outlined under Department Reporting
Guidelines.
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HOMELESS VETERANS PROGRAM
Chairman:
Deborah Johnson
4001 Rio Viejo Dr.
Bakersfield, CA 93313
(C) (661)619-6994
[email protected]
More and more in the newspapers, on television, and on line we are hearing of the staggering
figures in our California cities of the number of homeless Veterans! What can WE, as an
organization do to take the appropriate steps toward alleviating this terrible condition you ask?
It’s as simple as reaching out and taking action voluntarily! Step up to the plate….You hear
about it? Care enough to do something about it! Remember that there by the Grace of God…it
could be YOU that is homeless with no knowledge of where to turn next.
Doing nothing is not acceptable.
What you can do at the Post level:







Do your research on line at www.va.gov/homeless/ (Veterans Services), www.nchv.org
(Organizations), www.vfw.org (Assistance) to educate yourselves on what the
Department of Veterans Affairs, the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans and OUR
organization offer for the relief of our homeless Veterans.
Appoint your Post Chaplain and Post Service Officer to head this vital program. Make
sure they discuss this program on your floor so that all Post Members are aware of the
resources that are available.
Do your homework! Broaden your horizons! Familiarize yourself with what referable
services are available in your own communities. (I.E. County Veterans Service Office,
Employment Development Department office, community shelters, church/communityrun needy programs for food and clothing, Alcohol/Drug Anonymous meetings, soup
kitchens, etc.) In addition, participate and/or volunteer in a Stand Down in your area.
Make sure your Post Relief Fund has ample funds to be drawn on when a need arises.
Have a Standing Rule in place for a specific dollar amount to be immediately drawn upon
(between business meetings) or vote out to buy gift cards to local grocers and restaurants
to have on hand and put them under the control of the Post Chaplain and Post Service
Officer for this specific program.
Have food and clothing drives on a continual basis in your Post Home then donate the
items to the resources in your community for further distribution.
Report each activity you do as they are completed.
What you can do at the District level:

Organize or participate in a Homeless Veterans Stand Down. Have services available
such as employment, temporary housing, legal services, dental/medical services, food/
water donations and preparation, showers/barbers/hair stylists, daycare, Alcohol/Drug
Anonymous, etc.
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



Team up with allied veteran organizations/restaurants/food distributors to execute a plan
for a Stand Down.
Do your homework! Who knows who? What are they willing to bring to the table?
Obtain as many donations as possible. If you don’t ask, you won’t get. Explain that all
donations are tax deductible.
Encourage involvement from all your Posts. Appoint a Homeless Veteran Chairman!
I know a lot of Posts take part in “Stand Downs” in their area, but do not report it. If you
don’t report your work, no one will know about your efforts.
State Homeless Veterans resources can be found on the California Department of Veterans
Affairs website https://www.calvet.ca.gov (Veteran Services / Benefits – Housing).
HOW TO REPORT
AWARDS
Awards are based on the Chairman recommendation and will be presented in both categories at
the State Convention as follows unless otherwise noted elsewhere in this guide:


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LAW ENFORCEMENT, FIREFIGHTER,
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN
Chairman:
Wayne Wright
2892 Texas Avenue
Simi Valley, CA 93063
( 805) 285-8844
OVERVIEW
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States realizes that duties performed in the
fields of law enforcement and emergency services, whether carried out in public view with
the ensuing public acclaim, or performed in ways which gain little public recognition, are
both exemplary and of great value to the nation.
Refer to the National VFW Programs Chairman’s Guide for helpful tips and ideas in
recognition programs. All Posts and Districts are encouraged to publicize this program in
the local media.
Additional materials are available from VFW Emblem and Supply, or by visiting vfwstore.org.
Public Servant Award Citations for Public Servants
Each year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars honors a law enforcement officer, firefighter and
emergency medical technician (EMT) from each Department to receive the VFW National
Gold Medal Award. Post Chairmen are encouraged to submit a candidate for these awards
to the District Chairman by November 1, 2016. The deadline for District winners to be
submitted by the District Chairman to the Department Chairman is December 10, 2016.
The Department Chairman must select a single candidate for each award and submit those
to Department Headquarters by January 15, 2017. Eligible candidates for each award are as
follows:
Emergency Medical Technician
Any individual, who actively gives emergency medical treatment, provides rescue service
or civil disaster assistance as a member of any public or volunteer company organized to
give emergency medical care, provide rescue and civil disaster assistance to our nation’s
citizens.
Law Enforcement
Any individual who serves in a municipal, county, state or federal unit tasked with
enforcement of the laws pertaining to their area of responsibility. This award does not
apply to individuals employed by private companies or security services.
Firefighters
Any individual who actively fights fires as a member of any public or volunteer company
organized to fight fires and give assistance to our nation’s citizens.
Criteria for all Gold Medal Awards:
Candidates must have demonstrated:
 Recognition by their colleagues or those they serve.
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


Consistent excellence in the performance of their duties. Documentation is the key,
such as awards, letters, newspaper coverage, TV coverage etc.
Consistent dedication to their official responsibilities over a period of years and
continuous growth in responsibilities and skills within their profession. Comrades pick
a person with a record of impressive service over several years. Find the very best in
your community by approaching the chief or supervisor of each department in your
area.
It is not necessary to choose from your community but strongly suggested. Should you
have difficulty in choosing from your area, then keep an eye on the news for special
acts of heroism or such by an Law Enforcement Officer, Firefighter, or EMT in a
community nearby. You can honor them through your Post.
HOW TO SUBMIT
Documentation required for all candidates:
It is important that Post and District Chairmen alike understand the following policy: It is the
Post’s responsibility to interview, write, and submit the candidate packets to the proper
Chairman in the chain. It is not that of the nominee’s Department Captain or supervisor to do
so. Any packets submitted for judging which have been written by someone other than the Post
Chairman or post representative should not be accepted but returned to the post for re-write.
Any finalist packets submitted by District Chairmen to the Department Chairman for judging,
which do not meet the criteria above, will be returned to the District Chairman for re-write. It
will be their (district) responsibility to make changes and resubmit corrected packets prior to
final judging. Any packets received following judging will not be accepted. Please see
deadlines below for more information.
Nominee packets should contain the following:
 Nomination letter from the Post containing the candidate’s name, title, address,
telephone and identifying the award for which the individual should be
considered.
 One page resume of the candidate’s overall background.
 One page resume of the candidate’s background in their field.
 One page listing of the candidate’s accomplishment and awards in their field.
 Photograph (preferably a head shot no larger than 3” x 4”) of the candidate (as Law
Enforcement candidates may be undercover, photographs need not be recent).
 Written text should be in an easily readable font such as Calibri or New Times
Roman and should be no less than 10 point and no more than 12 point in size.
 Keep your descriptions short and to the point. Try not to repeat yourselves.
Please be thorough with your documentation. Entries must remain within the
parameters described above. No other documentation will be accepted.
Post Chairmen submit to District Chairmen. District Chairmen submit to the Department
Chairman. This is very important. The Department Chairman can provide assistance in
improving the packet but I need time in which to help YOU! Submit as early as possible.
Posts may submit their packets online via email to the District Chairman. Likewise, the
District Chairman may submit their packets to the Department Chairman online. All packets
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must meet the same criteria for non-electronic submission. It is very important that if you
submit online that your packets are in PDF format only. Any packets received in Word or
other publishing applications other than PDF will not be accepted. District Chairmen should
monitor for this and make corrections before submitting to Department for final
judging.
DEADLINES
 Deadline for submission to District Chairmen is November 1, 2016.
 Deadline for submission to Department Chairman by District Chairmen
is December 10, 2016.
 Department Chairman must submit the winners in all three categories to
the Department Headquarters no later than January 15, 2017.
REPORTING
District Chairmen are responsible to report all Posts that entered District competition so they
receive proper credit.
Reporting post participation online:
Upon submission of entries to the District Chairmen, Post Chairmen should report online by
visiting our home page at www.vfwca.org or go to www.ca.vfwportal.net/) and enter your
program reporting information. Participating Posts will be credited at the Department level as
soon as District Chairmen submit their reports to the Department Chairmen.
Important! To qualify for awards Posts must submit an online report. Reports must include
but not be limited to:
 Present a certificate or plaque to an eligible individual Law Enforcement Officer,
Firefighter, or EMT, and must state the name, agency, and date of presentation. You
must report what you do!
The Department Chairmen must submit a completed Committee report to the Department
Headquarters no later than January 15, 2017 to ensure proper credit is given for Post
participation.
AWARDS
Department awards are based on Chairmen’s recommendation and will be presented in all
three categories as follows:


The Department of California's first place winners will receive the Law Enforcement,
Firefighter, or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) National Gold Medal Award
certificate along with a $500.00 monetary award at an event to be scheduled within the
winner's community by the Department Chairmen and Post representative. The
recipients will also be our State's winners for the National Gold Medal Awards in one
of the three categories.
The Department of California’s second place winners in all three categories will receive
a certificate.
15
Important! For a Post to qualify for All-State consideration it must do one of the following:
 Participate in at least one of the three programs according to the rules put forth above.
 Donate $150 to Department in the name of one of the three programs, i.e.
Law Enforcement, Firefighter, or EMT.
Over the past year the question has been brought up about recognition for Posts that don’t
participate in the program but do honor first responders in their community. Although I have
some leeway in interpreting the rules, I don’t make them. If you wish to receive All-State
consideration you must abide by the rules. It’s not a difficult program to participate in and if
you go so far as to recognize your first responders, the next step is writing and submitting a
simple packet.
CONCLUSION
All Posts and Districts are encouraged to notify the Department Chairmen with information
about every Law Enforcement Officer, Firefighter or EMT that is killed in the line of duty.
Every fallen public servant reported to Department will be honored at the Department
Convention. By doing so the Department of California and all of its Posts/Districts therein will
demonstrate that Public Servants are appreciated and respected by members of the VFW
Department of California.
All of our programs are important and which ones we participate in are up to the individual
posts. In a perfect world posts would submit entries for all three categories…in a perfect world.
In reality, recent history shows that this cannot always be accomplished. I encourage you to do
the best you can even if it means only participating in one category. All I ask is you give it
your best. Promote your winners by submitting them to your local newspaper. Not only will
the public put a face with a name, they will see the local VFW cares enough to honor and
recognize those who are our first responders in their community.
Remember Comrades, our Law Enforcement and Emergency Service Personnel face
extreme challenges in today’s society. Recognizing these men and women in your
community for their vital service is an important moral boosting program. Know who
these men and women are in your community by introducing yourself in person to them.
Send a letter of introduction to your local Police Department, Sheriff’s Department, Highway
Patrol Station, Fire Department Headquarters and EMT provider on your Post letterhead.
Follow up with a phone call and a direct meeting. District Commanders and Chairmen, I
encourage your direct participation as well.
Comrades, I am available to assist you at any time. Please don’t hesitate to call or e-mail
me for more instructions should you need them. As your Program Chairman, I am looking
forward to working with you in accomplishing our VFW program mission.
16
LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM
Chairman:
Arthur Napiwocki
5123 Parham Avenue
La Crescenta, CA 91214
H (818) 957-3985
C (818) 219-0818
E-mail: [email protected]
One of the main goals of the Veterans of Foreign Wars is to ensure Veterans receive the
entitlements due them.
VFW's National Legislative Service office monitors all legislation affecting veterans. It alerts
VFW membership to key veterans' legislation under consideration and actively lobbies Congress
and the administration on veterans' issues. These advocacy efforts are effectively supported by
the concerted actions of our individual members.
The Department Legislative Committee provides a similar function at the state level by
monitoring activities of the State Legislature and conducting advocacy efforts on those issues
that affect veterans.
SOURCES OF INFORMATION FOR LEGISLATIVE OFFICERS
Each District and Post should have a functioning Legislative Committee to assist the National
Legislative Service and the Department Legislative Committee to disseminate legislative
information to their members. We must have an informed membership to generate effective
advocacy efforts. The important tools are available on the Internet and, particularly on the
following websites:
Web sites of Legislative Interest:
• www.vfw.org - Go to "VFW CAPITOL HILL" and the National Legislative Service and Action
Corps pages.
• www.vfwca.org/legislative.html - A menu of subjects is available.
• http://thomas.loc.gov - Extensive search facilities are available for researching legislative issues
in Congress. For complete information on any bill, enter "H.R." and the number for House bills
or "S" with the number for Senate bills.
• http://veterans.house.gov - Extensive information provided by the Chairman of the House
Committee on Veterans Affairs. (There will be some partisan viewpoints expressed.)
• http://veterans.senate.gov - The similar site for the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs.
• www.califveterans.com - Information concerning veterans legislation in the California
Legislature. (This site is maintained by the Chairman of the VFW Department of California
Legislative Committee.)
District and Post Legislative Committee members may also sign up to receive periodic reports on
important issues by sending their email address, name, and Post or District number to the
Chairman of the Department Legislative Chairman.
17
HOW TO REPORT
Report activities that are related to the VFW national and state legislative programs. Examples of
reportable activities include organized letter writing to legislators in support of veterans issues
endorsed by the VFW, Department of California; organized telephone activities to legislators;
and personal calls on legislators in their offices by members of the Post. Members who attend the
Department Legislative Day at the Capitol will have a very good opportunity to visit their own
representatives in the State Assembly and the State Senate during this event. All activities
should be reported on-line via the Department website under Americanism at
http://www.vfwca.org.
Important! - To qualify for awards, a Post must enter their report via the electronic reporting
system as mentioned before. In addition send a report containing specific actions such as letter
writing, responses to your letters and any other efforts of advocacy completed to Legislative
Department Chairman.
As a part of the Department Mandatory Donation Program, a donation must be made as outlined
under Mandatory Donations in the Program Guide for 2016-2017.
Donations to the State Legislative program which support our annual legislative day program as
well as legislative activities to include the work of the Chairman/Vice Chairman when required
in Sacramento, lobby efforts, etc. should be sent to directly to Department Headquarters along
with a note stating that the donation is for the legislative activities of the Department. Note:
Make all checks payable to VFW Dept. of CA and marked Legislative.
Any Post or District donating $250.00 or more to the Department of California Legislative fund
will receive a plaque at the State Convention.
Each year, the VFW Department of California recognizes one member of the California State
Senate and one member of the State Assembly as Legislators of the Year. Post and Districts may
nominate legislators for these awards by submitting recommendations to the Department
Legislative Chairman. Recommendations should be received prior to January 1, and should
reflect activities by the nominee performed in the State Legislature during the previous year.
Each year, the VFW Department of California offers a Legislative Day at the Capitol program in
Sacramento. Attendance at this program is open to all VFW members. The program is an
afternoon Social and the presentation of the VFWCA William Manes Legislator of the Year
awards. Attendees also attend hearings by the Legislature's Committees on Veterans Affairs. The
scheduling of this program is based on the Calendar of the State Legislature and will vary from
year to year. Check the Meetings and Events page of the Department website for information.
18
LIFE MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM
Chairman: Douglas School Cell # (619) 890-6876, e-mail: [email protected]
Vice Chairman–South: Russell Eseltine Cell # (619) 755-9548, e-mail: [email protected]
Vice Chairman-North: David Norris Cell # (209) 835-3975, e-mail: [email protected]
Vice Chair–Central: Tim Bryant Cell # (661) 350-0768, email: [email protected]
Regulations governing VFW Life Membership are set forth in Section 111 of the National ByLaws and Manual of Procedure. Check the Department Headquarters if additional information
about this program is needed. Life Membership fees are as follows for the specified age groups:
Age as of December 31st.
LIFE MEMBERSHIP INSTALLMENT PLAN
ONE TIME PAYMENT
INITIAL PAYMENT 11 PAYMENTS OF
THROUGH AGE 30
$425
$45.00
$38.64
31-40
$410
$45.00
$37.27
41-50
$375
$45.00
$34.09
51-60
$335
$45.00
$30.45
61-70
$290
$45.00
$26.36
71-80
$225
$45.00
$20.45
81 and over
$170
$45.00
$15.45
Any applicant whose 31st, 41st, 51st, 61st, 71st or 81st birthday will occur after the date of
application and on or before December 31st of the current year shall pay only the fee that would
be required on his next birthday.
The Life Membership Fund will pay a per capita tax to National Headquarters of the Veterans of
Foreign Wars of the United States, the Department Headquarters, and the local POST to which
each life member belongs. The National Life Membership Committee shall determine the said
amount.
Said amount shall be paid during September of the current year for the following calendar year
on all life members recorded as of August 31 of the then current calendar year and in addition,
the same amount shall be paid in January of the following year for persons who have become life
members during the period September 1 to December 31, provided however, only to the extent
funds are available in the Life Membership Fund. Payments shall never be less than three dollars
and fifty-cents ($3.50). Use “VFW FORM MCR” or log on to VFW emembership for the
following changes to a life member:
Requesting transfer to another Post
Change of address
Reporting deceased members
Replacement of Life Member Card
“VFW FORM PT-MD MEMBERS DECLARATION” is to be signed at the new Post by
transferring member and kept on file indefinitely by the Post Quartermaster. DO NOT SEND
THIS FORM TO DEPARTMENT OR NATIONAL.
19
ADVANTAGES TO LIFE MEMBERSHIP: Pay dues only one time; no interruption in the
VFW magazine because you forgot to pay dues; no more dues notices; VFW "No Cost"
insurance remains in force forever; issued sturdy plastic Life Member card instead of paper card;
never a question about your continuous membership status; most important of all: You show
officials in Washington and the American people that you are committed to ensuring veterans'
benefits and rights for life; join over one million other VFW members who have committed
themselves for life; and a Life Membership can save you money in the long run.
LEGACY LIFE MEMBERSHIP
As the name suggests, LEGACY LIFE MEMBERSHIP enables current Life Members to leave a
lasting mark (a legacy, if you will) on this great organization by helping to ensure that we
continue to “honor the dead by helping the living.”
LEGACY LIFE MEMBERS select from 3 levels of membership (Gold, Silver or Bronze), each
offering its own packages of prestigious benefits. You can review each level’s exclusive benefits
by referring to the Legacy Life Member Explanation of Benefits on the following pages. Once
activated, and this is the important part, an annual endowment will be made – in your name to
the VFW that will help support your post, your department, and the organization. By becoming
a Legacy Life Member, your support for the VFW will be forever honored.
20
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM
Chairman: Douglas School Cell # (619) 890-6876, e-mail: [email protected]
Vice Chairman–South: Russell Eseltine Cell # (619) 755-9548, e-mail: [email protected]
Vice Chairman-North: David Norris Cell # (209) 835-3975, e-mail: [email protected]
Vice Chair–Central: Tim Bryant Cell # (661) 350-0768, email: [email protected]
A successful Membership Program is paramount to the success of the Veterans of Foreign
Wars and its’ Posts. The post program must include all facets of membership to include retaining
our annual members, signing new members, converting annual members to life members,
signing up Legacy Life members and ongoing inclusive communication to them all.
Remember, membership is the lifeblood of the VFW and your Post, so we must be ever vigilant
in retaining the members we have and growing with new members. A strong membership gives
us power to garner our elected officials’ attention and their votes for active duty military and
veterans issues. It also assists in maintaining our financial stability to operate our programs. For
each member you sign up $21.50 goes to the National office and $10.00 goes to the Department;
funds the Department must have to support our Service Department, our chartered mandate.
A strong membership program includes but is not limited to:





Greater public awareness of the organization and its objectives.
Offer friendship through camaraderie.
Build a resource base for volunteer support.
Attracts attention from our citizenship and our local, state and national elected officials.
Serves as a basic building block along with other tools such as our service department,
community involvement, etc. to “honor the dead by helping the living”.
To have a strong membership program consider the following:








A membership program requires substantial commitment and continued leadership
support.
A post cannot achieve its’ mission and objectives without a good membership program.
Is the post dues structure in place a help or hindrance by being prohibitively high or
exclusionary to new recruits or retaining current annual members?
A post must build a current roster of all members for use by the membership team as a
working document and contact point.
Establish a Membership Program that best suites the local environment. Establish an
inclusive membership program and one that appeals to all veterans from WW II to the
current Afghanistan conflict.
Consider offering Post sponsored membership to active duty members.
Use the Post relief fund to assist those who are unable to renew their annual membership
dues because of illness, financial hardship, etc.
Use post membership recognition certificates for recruiting awards and do so publicly.
The post meeting is an excellent venue for the recognition. Reference the District
recognition for recruiting as well as the Department All-State and National All-American
programs.
21










Create a Post Budget Plan that includes your membership program which will help you
determine how much funding is needed up front to enlist new and retain current
members. Costs for the membership program in this budget should be raised through fund
raising events.
What Makes A Successful Membership Team
Commander dedicated to achieve 100% or more of the previous year's membership total.
The Commander is the leader of the membership program and must be committed to
selecting the right person as his/her Membership Chairman, clearly outlining his/her
goals for the program and most of all leading by example.
Program goals outlined to succeed. Program goals should be set at levels that are
obtainable. Lofty goals are fine as long as you realize they may not be accomplished and
may be detrimental to the success of the program. Goals should always be set to achieve
100% of last year’s membership and include plans for recruiting new members to
increase your membership each year. For smaller posts, this may only be 1 (one) or 2
(two) members. For larger Posts this may be 1 (one) or 2 (two) % above last year’s
membership.
Dedicated Membership Chairman who must be highly motivated. The success of the
program is a direct measure of his/her motivation. He/she should be a cheerful, educated
(in the VFW), energetic individual who can train his/her membership team in all aspects
of the VFW and its goals pertaining to membership and VFW programs.
Membership team of Comrades committed to the goals of the program. Always select a
team of Comrades who can work together.
The team should consist of previous and new team members so as to train new personnel
each year to fulfill the program needs and enough members so as not to overload them.
Develop a training program to teach how to recruit and communicate to annual members
concerning retention. Train new recruiters with the proper techniques and give them the
proper tools and materials. Knowledge of the program will ensure/breed success for now
and for the future.
Use assets available for training how to recruit and retention available through National,
Department, District and other Posts.
Use team members best suited to target specific demographics’ i.e., females to recruit
females, Iraq/Afghanistan veterans to recruit veterans of those conflicts, etc.
Tips for a successful recruiting campaign
1. Plan your activities and use:
o Personal Contact and knock on doors
o Recruiting booth (Use materials from National Membership Department, National
Membership Guide, Department Membership Guide, Department Membership
Team, Department Recruiting Van, District Membership Chairman, Post
Membership Chairman and team)
o Mail Campaign
o Referrals
o Telephone/E-mail - contact your unpaid members
2. Build a list of prospective members
o Local bases
o Chamber of Commerce
22
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Local Reserve Units
Neighbors
Welcome Wagons
Civic Organizations e.g.: Lions, Masons, and Rotary etc.
Department/County service Officers
Other Veterans Groups
Referral by other members
National Guard Armories
Conclusion
The Membership program should be started as early as possible in the year. The Membership
Chair should call regularly scheduled meetings of his/her committee and set forth the plan of
action and who is to accomplish it. Don’t wait until the members’ dues are set to expire to start
actively pursuing the unpaid annual members. Most will renew if contacted personally either by
phone or door to door campaigns. Make sure you ask them if they would like to go life, mention
the 12 month payment plan and use of credit cards. Have recruiting drives scheduled at the
local bases/guard units. Attend civic organizational meetings and get acquainted with their
membership. Remember that many women have served as well and should not be discounted.
When asking the husband to join also ask the wife if she has served. Don’t forget the Vietnam
Veterans – only about 10% have joined the VFW and about 50% have never been asked to join.
Keep in close contact with members of the team and offer encouragement and help where
needed. Membership can be very difficult if you let it get you down. Sometimes calling three of
four times is not unusual before you can get a member to sign up. Be willing to change your
plan if it’s not working as you had expected or the results are not satisfactory. Discuss with
other Posts who are doing well to see what they are doing differently. Knowledge is power.
Last but not least –DON’T GET DISCOURAGED and GO FORTH AND RECRUIT!
23
MEMBERSHIP AWARDS PROGRAM 2016-2017
THE MEMBERSHIP AWARDS PROGRAM IS SEPARATE FROM THE ALL-STATE
PROGRAM
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS FOR RECRUITING NEW AND REINSTATED MEMBERS
# of New or
Re-instated Members
5
10
25+
Date
Dec 31, 2016
Dec 31, 2016
Dec 31, 2016
50
May 1, 2017
75+
Jun 30, 2017
100
Jun 30, 2017
200
Jun 30, 2017
Award
$25 Gift Certificate to VFW Store
Commander’s Shirt
Commander’s Jacket Presented at Council of Administration
$250 Check –
Presented at Council of Administration
$500 Check
$500 Check and Commander’s Leather Jacket –
$1000 Check and Commander’s Leather Jacket –
AWARDS FOR RECRUITING NEW AND RE-INSTATED MEMBERS – POST
# of New or
Date
Award
Re-instated Members
25
Nov 30, 2016
$100 Check
50
Dec 31, 2016
$250 Check
75
Jun 30, 2017
$500 Check
100
Jun 30, 2017
$750 Check
100% + 25
Nov 30, 2016
$150 Check
100% + 50
Dec 31, 2016
$250 Check
100% + Quota
Jan 31, 2017
$100 Check
 The top two Posts (must reach 100% plus quota) in each membership division will be
awarded a plaque. The top Posts will be determined by the National Membership Report
ending on May 1, 2017.
 The awards will be presented at the Department Convention in Ontario, California.
DISTRICT MEMBERSHIP ‘SPECIAL AWARD’
 The top District (must reach 100% plus quota) in each membership division will be awarded
a plaque. The top district will be determined by the National Membership Report ending
May 1, 2017.
 District Commanders who attain 100% or more of their membership by May 1, 2017 will
receive a special gift from the State Commander.
 The awards will be presented at the Department Convention in Ontario, California.
24





AWARDS FOR LIFE MEMBERSHIP
Member who signs up ten (10) new** Life Members between July 1, 2016 and May 1,
2017 will receive a Commander’s shirt. Verification by the Department Membership
Chairman must be received at the State Headquarters no later than May 1, 2017 and will
be awarded at the State Convention.
The Post in each Membership Division that transmits the MOST Life Members between
July 1, 2016 and May 1, 2017 will receive a special designed Plaque. Award to be
presented at the State Convention.
The District in each Membership Division transmitting the MOST Life Members
between July 1, 2016 and May 1, 2017 will receive a special designed Plaque. Award to
be presented at the State Convention.
**Annual Conversion to Life Membership does not count
All Posts and Districts who attain 100% in membership but did not achieve All-State will
receive a Department Certificate of Appreciation.
POST MEMBERSHIP DIVISIONS AND QUOTA
Division
1
2
3
4
5
6
Membership size
1,000 & over
700 T0 999
400 TO 699
200 TO 399
100 TO 199
0 to 99
Minimum %
100% PLUS 10
100% PLUS 10
100% PLUS 10
100% PLUS 10
100% PLUS 10
100% PLUS 5
DISTRICT MEMBERSHIP DIVISIONS
Division
1
2
3
4
5
6
Membership size
9001 & over
7001 to 9000
6001 to 7000
4001 to 6000
2001 to 4000
0 to 2000
25
Minimum %
100% PLUS 50
100% PLUS 40
100% PLUS 30
100% PLUS 20
100% PLUS 10
100% PLUS 10
NATIONAL HOME
Chairman:
Mike Phillips
845 Pecos St.
Spring Valley, Ca. 91977
(C) (619) 368-3710
For families touched by the stresses of deployment and war, it can be difficult to provide a safe
and loving home. Perhaps a mother struggles to financially provide for her family. Or a father
needs to work through the things he saw and dealt with while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan.
The children might not be doing well in school and need a caring adult to mentor and guide
them.
That’s where the VFW National Home for Children steps in. For struggling military and veteran
families, the National Home offers the chance to heal and grow, a chance to work on moving
forward. The National Home’s community is open to families of active-duty military personnel,
veterans and descendants of members of the VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary.
The VFW National Home for Children is located in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, surrounded by
peaceful farms and small-town neighbors. The National Home has 42 single-family homes, as
well as spacious playgrounds, a licensed daycare, a community center, and recreational facilities
for its families.
The families living here have a real chance to rebuild their lives. The family may live in the
National Home’s community for up to 4 years, during which time they are provided: housing,
case management services, which includes one-on-one support and assistance with creating and
achieving family goals, on-site licensed childcare, life skills training, tutoring and other
educational services, all of which are designed to provide them with the tools to create a lasting
life and home for their children once they leave here.
And the National Home’s dedication and service to veterans, active duty members, and their
families goes beyond the walls of the campus, through our Military and Veteran Family Helpline
at 800-313-4200. The Helpline is staffed Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by caring
professionals who provide information and connections to needed services wherever they are in
the United States. It can also serve as the first step to living in the National Home community.
Since 1925, the National Home has been offering help, hope, and honor to the families of our
nation’s active duty military and veterans. We are a nonprofit organization and receive no
government funding. We are run solely by private donations.
For more information on the VFW National Home for Children, visit
http://www.vfwnationalhome.org or call 800-424-8360. To reach the Military and Veteran
Helpline, call 800-313-4200 or e-mail [email protected].
26
HOW TO REPORT
Important! – To qualify for awards a Post must properly submit an online report.
AWARDS
Awards will be presented at the State Convention.
 1st Place (Post & District) will be awarded a plaque, based on Chairman
Recommendation.
APPLICATIONS FOR ADMISSION TO THE NATIONAL HOME
Application for admission must be made through the local VFW Post. National Home Referral of
Children (Form-20)
FUNDS TO OPERATE THE NATIONAL HOME
Please keep in mind that the Home is a totally private agency with no outside support. It derives
its support solely from the membership of the VFW Post, Auxiliaries and the Military Order of
the Cooties. Below are the four (4) primary sources of contributions that provide for the
operation of the National Home:
1.
2.
3.
4.
The donations for National Home Seals (nearly 50% of the budget).
The donations for Buddy Poppies (one cent from each poppy).
Donations for National Home Life Memberships and Associate Life Memberships
($35.00).
Bequests from wills and gifts.
Money received from Life Memberships and gifts are placed in an Endowment Fund and only
the interest is used to run the Home.
Any active VFW or Auxiliary member, or any unit from those organizations can become an
active (voting) member of the corporation by purchasing a "LIFE MEMBERSHIP" in the VFW
National Home for $35.00. Life Memberships may also be given as gifts or purchased in the
name of a Post, Auxiliary or individual. These associate memberships may likewise be
purchased by or for organizations and people of good character; however, associate members do
not have National Home voting privileges.
Each National Home Life Member, whether active or associate, receives a pocket card and a
certificate attesting inclusion on the VFW National Home Life Membership Rolls. The pocket
cards and certificates may change periodically and they can be replaced or updated for a small
fee.
27
NATIONAL VETERANS WHEELCHAIR AND
GOLDEN AGE GAMES
Chairman:
Joe Velasquez
1573 Sacajawea Avenue
Richland, WA 99352
(C) (209) 402-1795
The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California Golden Age Games/Wheelchair Games
Programs are an expensive endeavor and we would invite all to join with us in supporting these
most worthy veterans in their health maintenance and care.
Veterans under VA care, inpatient or outpatient, are potentially eligible to compete in these
events. For the National Veterans Wheelchair Games (NVWCG) all competitors must be
wheelchair (power or manual) users. For the National Veterans Golden Age Games (NVGAG),
competitors must be 55 or older (ambulatory, non-ambulatory or vision impaired).
The NVGAG's and the NVWCG's events are very expensive for our California teams. All posts,
auxiliaries and pup tents as well as businesses and individuals are urged to donate to this premier
rehabilitation and therapeutic program. Competition applications for either of the games are
obtained from the Department of Veterans Affairs Recreation Therapy Offices in the VA
Medical Centers or on-line at www.va.gov and insert the name: National Veterans Golden Age
Games or National Veterans Wheelchairs Games in the search block. These applications are
usually available about five months prior to the events.
The Veterans Golden Age/Wheelchair Games Fund is a viable VFW program. Each District and
Post must have their own chairman to coordinate reports and fund raising activities for the
program.
The Wheelchair Games Program funds are restricted and can only be used for National Veterans
Wheelchair Games or the National Veterans Golden Age Games Program.
AWARDS
Awards will be presented at the State Convention as follows:
Donations of $200 to $449 will receive a certificate of appreciation.
$450 to $749 will receive a 5 x 7 plaque.
Greater than $750 will receive an 8 x 10 plaque.
All awards will be presented during the awards session at the Department Convention.
Please make checks payable to VFW Department of California and earmarked National Veterans
Golden Age Games/ Wheelchair Games Program and forward to Department Headquarters.
28
PATRIOT’S PEN PROGRAM
Chairman:
John “JJ” Vojtas
1735 Costada Court
Lemon Grove, CA 91945-3915
(858) 922-9123
PROGRAM OVERVIEW AND GUIDELINES:
VFW believes strongly in good citizenship and fostering patriotism. There is no better place to
start the process than with our youth. We encourage young minds to examine Veterans of the
present as well as through history, and how their own experiences invoke original thought
through our Patriot’s Pen youth essay writing contest.
The National Patriot’s Pen Program is a youth essay contest conducted nationwide by VFW
Posts and Auxiliaries. This contest gives students in the 6th, 7th and 8th grades, the opportunity
to express their own opinions and improve their writing skills for a given theme, while they
compete for worthwhile awards and prizes. With the exception of exchange students, all
students attending public, private, or parochial schools are eligible to participate in the Patriot’s
Pen Program. Students will compete for $1,000 cash at the Department level. If selected by
National, the winner will receive an all-expense paid trip to the National Convention for a chance
at $5000 and recognition.
*** Post and District Chairman should refer to the National VFW Programs Guide “VFW
Scholarship Programs.”
*** Materials are available from VFW Emblem and Supply.
2016-2017 THEME: “The America I Believe In”
DEPARTMENT DEADLINES FOR 2016-2017:
Student Entry Deadline to the Post:
November 1, 2016
Post Deadline to submit to District:
November 15, 2016
District Deadline for complete package to Department: Friday, December 9, 2016
**** THERE ARE NO EXECEPTIONS to the DEPARTMENT DEADLINE ****
Black out sheets will be updated via information delivered to Department from the District
Chairperson submission of the attached “Patriot’s Pen District Participation Report.”
DEPARTMENT ESSAY AWARDS
The First Place winner is invited to the Mid-Winter Conference to read their speech.
Second and Third place shall be recognized locally.
First place
Second Place
Third Place
$1,000.00 and a plaque
$ 750.00 and a plaque
$ 500.00 and a plaque
29
A plaque will be awarded at the Department Convention for the most outstanding Post and
District Patriots Pen Program as determined by the Chairman.
HOW TO SUBMIT AN ENTRY
To submit a Patriot’s Pen entry, complete the following steps and forward this information to
your District Patriots Pen Chairman.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Complete the Official Patriots Pen Competition Entry Form.
Entries shall be no greater than 400 words in length. (Title not counted)
Essays should be computer printed or typewritten in English with no color or graphics.
Posts judge their entries for inclusion in the District contest and submit their winners and
other report information to the District Chairperson.
5. District chooses winners, and completes the District Patriot’s Pen package to Department,
which includes Essay, application form, photo, summary, and report form.
6. District winning entries shall include a good quality head and shoulders photograph of
the student. (School photographs best.) It will be needed for the Department winner.
District Chairpersons will deliver all entries to the Department Chairman NO LATER THAN
December 9, 2016.
*** For Post’s with no District Program, please note that the Department Chairman will accept
only one entry per District.
JUDGING: For consistency, all levels of judging are based on the same criteria, remembering
that this is a subjective topic and there is no “right” answer to the explanation of Freedom.
Entries are judged on the following:
-
Knowledge of the theme – 30 points. Essays must show a thorough knowledge of America,
and should demonstrate specifics of their belief of the topic. (Have they prepared)
Theme Development – 35 points. Essays should demonstrate a basic flow of original ideas.
Do they provide a picture of their thoughts? (Can you visualize how they feel)
Clarity of ideas – 35 points. Writer should have good structure, and present a clear picture
of the writer’s ideas. (How well is it written?)
Essays should have a positive approach toward our organization; it is recommended that
students realize the nature of our organization, we are sponsoring the contest. However, it
should be evident that the essays express the young writer’s own viewpoints.
*** NOTE *** To ensure fairness, the student should not identify themselves within the essay.
They should not include their name, city, state, national origin, race, or specific religion.
The Department Chairman will provide judges and the team will select a state winner and
forward that entry and any required reports to National.
30
HOW TO REPORT:
Step 1:
Each Post that submits a student entry meeting guidelines and dates will receive ALL-STATE
credit, which is reported through the District contest process. The Posts shall provide:
- Winning entry
- Number of participants
- Monies awarded
Step 2:
District collects all entries from Post within the district, then conducts judging of Post winners at
the District level….District Chairpersons are required to submit the District winning entry form,
picture, and essay to Department NLT December 9, 2016.
Step 3:
District Chairperson completes the Summary Form and a District Participation Form to the
Department Chairman NLT January 3, 2017 that includes:
- District Summary form
- Post participation breakout form
Step 4:
The Department Chairman use the District inputs to provide Department Headquarters and
National with a report of all of the Posts that participated, by District, which will then be used to
give credit in the All-State Program blackout sheet.
OTHER
All activities other than the student entry should be reported on-line via the Department website
under reporting procedure and Youth Activities at www.vfwca.org
Be sure to submit any additional Patriot’s Pen Activities to the Department Chairman to be
considered for the Department awards.
31
DISTRICT PATRIOT'S PEN
PARTICIPATION REPORT 2016-2017
DISTRICT NO. _______
DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA, VFW
The VFW Posts and Auxiliaries identified in this report in this District participated in the VFW
annual Patriot's Pen Program.
GRAND TOTALS FOR POST COMPETITION: list totals taken from District report form(s)
__________
Posts
__________
Auxiliaries
$ _______________________
Savings Bonds & Awards
__________
Students
_______________
Post Winners
Advanced
$________________________
Addl. Money Expended
MONETARY VALUE OF DISTRICT COMPETITION (add County Councils if applicable):
District Savings Bonds & Awards
$ _______________
District Additional Expenses
$ _______________
Signed by: ______________________________________________
Date _______________
District Patriot Pen Program Chairman
PLEASE ATTACH COMPLETED REPORT FORM(S) AND GIVE
THIS COMPLETED SUMMARY TO YOUR DEPARTMENT
PATRIOT’S PEN CHAIRMAN NO LATER THAN JANUARY 3, 2017
32
DISTRICT PATRIOT'S PEN REPORT FORM 2016-2017
NUMBER OF
POST #
AUXILIARY PARTICIPATING
STUDENTS
(need minimum
of one)
33
NUMBER OF
POST
WINNERS
ADVANCED
(need min. of
one)
SAVINGS
BONDS
& AWARDS
ADDL.
MONEY
EXPENDED
POW/MIA PROGRAM
Chairman:
Lamont Duncan
Vice Chairman:
2019 Van Wick St.
Los Angeles, CA 90047
(C) (323) 804-3201
Louis Gemmill
1130 Pleasant Wood Ct.
Stockton, CA 95210
(C) 209-598-1214
[email protected]
WE CANNOT BE SATISFIED WITHOUT 100% ACCOUNTABILITY
We request VFW members send their National, State and Local representatives a letter urging
their continued support of this issue; this includes asking members of the public to also write on
behalf of our missing veterans. To ensure they are never forgotten, all VFW Posts should:









Urge support from local news media and club newsletters.
Notify all news Media well in advance of all POW/MIA Programs to ensure their
participation.
Comply with VFW National mandates, and our state resolution that requires having an
empty chair at all official function properly personalized with a POW chair cover.
Meet the POW/MIA families from your area and see if Post or Auxiliary can be of
assistance to them.
Urge all Posts and Districts to appoint POW/MIA Chairperson and send their name to the
State Chairperson.
Urge all Posts and District Commanders with the help from the Auxiliary to conduct a
ceremony.
Urge Posts and Districts to have a POW/MIA Flag on location for meetings and special
events.
Educate and inform communities, schools, youth groups and local government that the
Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Flag is only subordinate to the US Flag and should be
displayed or presented accordingly.
Follow updates on "The National League of POW/MIA Families" website at
http://www.pow-miafamilies.org.
AWARDS
Awards, based on Chairman’s recommendation, will be presented in both categories at the State


34
PUBLIC RELATIONS/PUBLICATIONS CONTEST
Chairman:
Steve Milano
9136 Elk Grove Blvd., Suite 100
Elk Grove, CA 95624
(H) (916)509-8712
We are here to serve Veterans. In that regard, we must project a positive image to the public at
large. This must be done to maximize our exposure for:
1. Veterans for their awareness of our programs,
2. The public for their help, support and goodwill,
3. Our elected representatives at every level for their legislative response to Veterans’
issues, problems and ongoing entitlements.
All District and Post officers must ensure that their words and conduct reflect a positive image
and official doctrine as enunciated by national and state directives and publications. Whether
making a statement through personal initiative or if asked by journalists or the public, one must
be aware of the effects of one’s words and conduct. When in doubt, refer to Department
personnel. You are an official representative of the VFW when identified as an officer of the
VFW.
In an effort to improve communications with the public, the following is advisable:
1. Establish a public relations officer and/or committee at the District and Post levels,
2. Schedule periodic news releases in advance of patriotic holidays,
3. Promote Post/District events through public service announcements (radio/TV) and
community organizations, e.g., churches, clubs,
4. Join with other neighborhood groups to sponsor local events,
5. Visit schools, hospitals, nursing homes, etc. wearing your VFW attire to encourage
veterans and others who are ill or incapacitated.
Important! – To qualify for awards a Post must send a copy of the Program Reporting to the
Department Chairman with all applicable attachments.
AWARDS
Awards will be presented as follows unless otherwise noted elsewhere in this guide:
 1st place (Post & District) will be awarded a plaque, while 2nd and 3rd (Post & District)
will be awarded a certificate based on Chairman Recommendation.
Publications Contest:
If your Post or District has a Newsletter and you would like to submit it for the Publication
Contest please forward a copy of three (3) issues to the Department Headquarters so that they
will be available for judging.
35
All Publications for judging must be in to Department Headquarters by February 1, 2017. All
issues published between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2016, are eligible. Judging will be
based on news contents, layout and graphics; and general excellence.
Judging for Districts and Posts are now combined and will not be categorized by circulation but
rather on publication frequency (one to three times per year and four or more times per year).
Awards will be presented in 1st, 2nd and 3rd place for each category. All national entries must
place first in Department-level contests and be forwarded to the Publications Department at
National by the State Adjutant/Quartermaster.
Web Site Contest:
The Department Public Relations Chairman and Committee will select the best Post and District
Website from any entries submitted to the Department for consideration. The winners will be
presented plaques at the State Convention.
36
CALIFORNIA VETERAN
*Guidelines for Submissions*
The California Veteran is published by the Department of California, Veterans of Foreign Wars,
and is made available on-line via the Department website www.vfwca.org or mailed upon
request.
The California Veteran exists to provide information concerning the activities of the Veterans of
Foreign Wars, Department of California and to keep our members informed of veterans'
legislation, veterans' rights and veterans' benefits. It is strictly a VETERANS' publication and
concerns itself only with matters of interest to veterans.
We are always happy to receive news items and pictures from Posts, and will use them as space
permits and in accordance with their general interest. If you believe that an activity of your Post
will be of interest to members of other Posts, send in the information. A report of a Post meeting
or its installation of officers is of no interest to members of another Post; they have their own
meetings. If, however, your Post has successfully completed a special project of an unusual
nature, others may very well want to know of it and set up a similar project.
What, where, when, how, why and who, are very important to anyone handling publicity. They
are the ingredients that must go into any news story. The sooner those questions are answered in
your article, the better. The first two paragraphs should tell the story. Place the least important
part of the story at the end so if the article must be cut, the facts will remain and the story will
still be complete.
Help us keep from making errors in your copy. Please type your stories on 8-1/2 x 11 sheets,
double space between lines and sixty spaces to the line. Leave approximately two inches on the
top and sides of the sheet. Make certain that all names are spelled correctly and that the story is
complete. We will rewrite it if necessary, but we must have all the information and sufficient
lead time. If you follow these rules, we will be able to put our instructions to the printer on top
and bottom of the sheet without having to retype it. That will prevent errors from creeping into
your story.
To a great degree we depend on contributed pictures (digital via email is preferred), but they
must be GOOD pictures and must again, be of general interest. The quality of a picture must be
high, with good contrast and good composition. Snapshots are generally not clear enough to use,
especially those taken with a Polaroid camera. Please send glossy prints, 5 x 7 or larger if
possible. We do not like to use pictures with more than three or four persons since individuals in
large groups are pretty much lost in the crowd.
The California Veteran will be published four (4) times a year. The California Veteran is
published on-line and mailed upon request.
Candidates for Department office shall receive (at no cost) space to announce their candidacy in
the May-Jun-Jul issue. Candidates must have their announcement in by April 12th. Should a
37
candidate want an ad in another issue, or if they miss the April deadline, they will be charged the
regular California Veteran advertising rates.
Send all news items, pictures, etc. to:
Stephanie Martin, Assistant Editor
THE CALIFORNIA VETERAN
13233 Cuyamaca Road
Apple Valley, CA 92308
E Mail: [email protected]
(760) 961-2460- FAX (760) 961-7682
Deadlines for Publications
(The California Veteran and California Update)
Issue
August
November
February
May
Deadline Date
July 12, 2016
October 11, 2016
January 17, 2017
April 11, 2017
Publication
Aug-Sep-Oct Cal Vet
Nov-Dec-Jan Cal Vet
Feb-Mar-Apr Cal Vet
May-Jun-Jul Cal Vet
Articles should be emailed to [email protected], or else they may be typed (double-spaced) and
faxed to headquarters at (916) 509-8720. To ensure that spelling is correct and words are legible,
no hand-written articles will be accepted. Your assistance with these deadlines and requirements
will help ensure that our publications are accurate and timely.
38
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, CALIFORNIA
“The California Veteran”
Published Quarterly, Circulation: 105,000
(916) 509-8712
(916) 509-8720 Fax [email protected]
ADVERTISING RATES
$50 per column inch. Column inch size is 2.5” x 1”
1/8 Page Ad
1/8 Page
5” x 4”
Open Rate: $300
Repeat Insertion: $275
VFW Member: $275
1/4 Page
5” x 8”
1/4 Page Ad
Open Rate: $600
VFW Member: $500
Half Page
10” x 8”
Half Page Ad
Open Rate: $900
VFW Member: $800
Full Page
10” x 15.5”
Full Page Ad
Open Rate: $1,500
Repeat Insertion: $1,350
VFW Member: $1,350
Repeat Insertion: $1,100
39
SCOUTING, YOUTH ACTIVITIES, ROTC/JROTC &
SONS OF THE VFW
Chairman:
Corey McKinney
497 Mara Avenue
Ventura, CA 93004
Phone: (805) 901-4500
Overview
Every VFW Post has the opportunity to work in partnership with the Boy Scouts of America
(BSA), Girl Scouts of America (GSA) and when they sponsor/charter a scouting unit. Direct
involvement in scouting is a chance to positively affect youth while developing positive
youth/adult partnerships. Through Scouting, VFW Posts have the opportunity to expand their
community outreach while developing a clear resource for veteran families and their children.
Posts that sponsor Scout units have an excellent resource for membership recruitment and
support of Post programs. Parents that are involved in scouting and working with youth have the
skills and commitment for community service.
Post and District Chairman should refer to the National VFW Programs Guide “It’s About
Service”. Additional materials are available from VFW Emblem and Supply, or by visiting
www.vfw.org.
Organizing a Scout Unit
To start a Scout unit contact your local Scout Council, or contact the Department Chairman.
Eagle Scout / Sea Scout Quartermaster Service / Venture Summit Award/Girl Scout Gold
Projects and Service to Veterans
One of the requirements for Eagle Scout, Sea Scout Quartermaster Venture Summit Award and
GSA Gold Award Recipient is the Service Project. This is a project the Scout must plan, develop
and give leadership to. Its emphasis is on service to the community. Here is an excellent
opportunity for our Posts and membership to become involved. Scouts who are planning their
Service Projects are always looking for a good project to do. We can become involved by
sponsoring their projects and at the same time helping our fellow veterans. Our Veterans Homes,
Hospitals, Convalescent Homes and Clinics are excellent places for the Scouts to perform their
projects. When you sponsor a project, help the Scout by letting him or her know who to contact
and with ideas for his or her project. Contact the above mentioned facilities and make
arrangements for the Scout to meet with them. It also helps if you let the facility know what your
Scout and his or her project can do for them and how they can help.
Post and Auxiliary members can also help out with the projects. But remember the Scout must
plan, develop and direct the project. Posts that do not have a Scout Unit can contact a local Scout
unit or Scout Council to let them know that you are willing to sponsor an Eagle Scout,
Quartermaster, Venture or GSA Gold Project. If assistance is needed, contact the Department
Chairman. Report all your Scouting related activities.
40
VFW Scholarship for Wood Badge, Sea Badge BSA and AHG Advanced Adult Leadership
Training
Wood Badge is an advanced adult leadership training course provided by the Boy Scouts of
America. VFW members who are actively involved in Scouting qualify for this program.
National provides a full scholarship. Details are sent out annually by National to every Post.
Anyone interested in attending Wood Badge or have any questions about this program, please
contact the Department Chairman.
Department of California Scouting Team
The Department of California Scouting Team is made up of VFW members who are actively
involved in Scouting. Team members perform duties at the unit level as Charter Organization
Representatives, Unit Committeemen, Unit Commissioners, Cubmasters, Scoutmasters,
Venturing Advisors, Sea Scout Skippers, Girl Scout leaders or their assistants. They may also
work at the Scout District and Council levels. They may represent the VFW, as a sponsoring
community organization, at meetings of the Council Relationship Committee. Team members
assist VFW Posts with the VFW Scout of the Year program and may serve on the selection
committee. Team members work to provide the maximum impact of VFW support to the
Scouting program and to achieve the maximum visibility for VFW efforts. They assist in
developing Scouting within the VFW and promote VFW programs in Scouting. All VFW Posts
that sponsor or charter a Scout unit could have a member on the State Scouting Team.
VFW Scouters Achievement Award
This is a National Award designed to recognize VFW Scouters who serve three years on the
VFW State or National Scouting Team. The award consists of a gold square knot on purple cloth,
which may be worn on the Scout uniform, and a certificate presented by VFW National
Headquarters.
VFW Department of California and National Scout of the Year
The VFW Scout of the Year program is designed to recognize youth achievement and leadership,
contribution to the youth of the community in development of lifetime core values of honor,
integrity, courage and commitment as evidenced by Scouting leadership, recognition, and
participation; and selfless service to the citizens of the community. Only Eagle Scouts, Sea Scout
Quartermasters, Venture Summit Award, and GSA Gold award recipients who have reached
their 15th birthday but not reached their 18th birthday on the date of entry are eligible. This
includes all our young ladies in Sea Scouts and Venturing. All candidates for the VFW Scout of
the Year MUST BE SPONSORED BY A VFW POST as evidenced by signatures on the official
entry form application. Posts will select one (1) winner from its applicants and forward the entry
to the District.
The District will select one (1) winner from the Post submissions and forward the entry to the
Department Chairman who, with the aid of the Scouting Committee select a first, second and
third place and submit the first place winner to National for Judging as National Scout of the
Year. Entries will not be accepted when the sponsoring Post IS NOT in the District submitting
the entry. Entrant should live in the submitting District. Do not send photo-copies of the Scout
of the Year application form. We must have originals of all work and pictures.
41
DEADLINES
Scout’s Entry due to Post - March 1,
Post winner due to District - March 15,
District winner due to Department Chairman – April 1
Entry forms and rules can be obtained from Department, on line at the Department web site and
from State Scouting Team members or by contacting the Department Chairman. Posts wishing to
participate should contact their own Scout unit, local Scout Troops and Councils to distribute the
information about the program.
HOW TO REPORT
Important! – To qualify for awards, in addition to their online report, the Post must also send a
copy of the Program Report to the Department Chairman with all applicable attachments.
Awards
A plaque will be awarded at the State Convention for the most outstanding Post and District
Scouting Program as determined by the Chairman and Scouting Committee.
Note: Report all Scouting activities and support given by your Post and all of your Post members
regardless if your Post sponsors a Scout Unit or not. Report all service activities, activities that
your Scouts do with your Post, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Loyalty Day, Dinners and
anything else. Report all activities that your members do with your Scouts such as campouts,
service projects, courts of honor and meetings attended. Report all Scouting activities that
members do at the BSA, GSA District and Council, such as committee’s special projects and any
support. Report all dollars donated or spent “out of pocket” and mileage incurred at the approved
IRS rate. Report all volunteer hours provided, including those of Scout unit adults, when your
Post has been issued a Charter to sponsor a Scout unit. The Scouting Year for the VFW Awards
runs from April 1 through February 28 of the following year.
SCOUTING AWARDS
1. VFW Department of California Scout of the Year. Department winners will be
presented a check for $500 at the Annual State Convention. Second place $300 and third
place $200. It is recommended that Post winners be presented $100, District winners
$200 for first place, $150 for second place, and $100 for third place.
2. Eagle Scout, Quartermaster, Venture Summit Award, GSA Gold Award. A plaque
will be given to the Post and Scout for the best service project that helps Veterans.
Submit a copy of the Scout’s Project with sufficient pictures to verify work done to the
Department Chairman by April 1. This should be submitted as a separate entry from the
Scout of the Year application.
3. Outstanding Scout Unit of the Year: A plaque will be presented to the Post and Scout
Unit. Scout Units must be sponsored by a VFW Post and includes Cub Scouts, Boy
Scouts, Venture Crews, Sea Scout Ships, Explorer Posts, and Girl Scout Units. Submit a
notebook with photos and a narrative of all your Post and Scout Units activities for the
year to the Department Chairman by April 1.
4. Outstanding Scout Leader of the Year: A plaque will be presented to the Scout Leader
selected. All Scout Leaders of VFW sponsored Scout Units are eligible for this award.
42
This award is restricted to Cub Masters, Scout Masters, Venture and Explorer Advisors,
Sea Scout Skippers and Girl Scout Leaders They do not have to be a VFW member.
Submit a narrative of the Scout Leaders achievements and what he or she has done.
Include awards earned and training. Submit to Department Chairman by April 1.
5. Post Most Active in Scouting: A plaque will be presented to the Post Most Active in the
BSA, GSA, and Scouting Program. Send copies of all photos and pertinent information to
Department Chairman by April 1.
6. All Awards to be determined by the Chairman and the Scouting Committee.
YOUTH CADETS (ROTC/JROTC) PROGRAM
The National Youth Cadet Awards Program allows Posts to recognize outstanding achievement
and leadership in Junior and Senior ROTC programs, Naval Sea Cadets and Civil Air Patrol
Cadets. These awards provide your Post an outstanding opportunity to honor these young
patriotic people and spread the word about the good works that the VFW does in communities.
Awards may be initiated by a Post or by the Cadet’s unit. All Posts and Districts should make
every attempt to honor these requests by purchasing a certificate and medal from VFW Emblem
& Supply Store and having a representative make the award presentation on behalf of the Post or
District. Please refer to the National VFW Programs Guide “It’s About Service” for more
information on the Youth Cadet Award Program.
SONS OF THE VFW
PURPOSE
The purpose of forming Sons of the VFW Unit within your Post is to provide an ideal base for
implementing all your Youth Activities Programs. The Unit will enhance your Post's
Community Service Programs by their participation in all your events. The Unit will serve as a
vehicle for launching major national youth programs such as Junior Rifle, Voice of Democracy,
Patriots Pen, Youth Baseball and Scouting. Sons of the VFW Unit in your Post will help build
your membership by recruiting parents and grandparents of eligible sons. The Sons will learn
the meaning of true democracy from association with loyal American Patriots of our Order in a
parent-son relationship that our Youth of today need. The Unit can assist you in distributing
Buddy Poppies and Poppy Boards.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible for the Sons of the VFW, a boy must be between the ages of 8 and 18 with a
parent or grandparent merely being eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of
the United States.
CHARTER A SONS OF THE VFW UNIT
You only need the names of ten (10) eligible sons or grandsons. There is no fee nor State or
National per capita tax. The Sons of the VFW Unit themselves set a minimal amount for their
dues, with the approval of the Post.
43
HOW TO REPORT
Important! – To qualify for awards a Post must submit an online report and submit a copy of
your report, with any copies of supply orders for medals, certificates, etc. to the program
chairman.
AWARDS - YOUTH ACTIVITIES & ROTC/JROTC
Awards will be presented at the State Convention as follows unless otherwise noted elsewhere in
this guide:
 1st Place (Post & District) will be awarded a plaque, based on Chairman Recommendation.
AWARDS - SONS OF THE VFW
Plaques shall be awarded at the State Convention in the following categories:
 Outstanding Unit
 Outstanding Unit Advisor
 Outstanding Unit Commander
44
STUDENT VETERANS OF AMERICA
Chairman:
David Norris, PSC
Vice Chairman:
1365 Audrey Drive
Tracy, CA 95376
(H) 209-835-3975
(C) 209-481-5608
Mary Bandini
1421 Mellow Ln
Simi Valley, CA 93065
(C) (818)577-6936
[email protected]
Today’s veterans can face any number of obstacles while furthering their education. That’s why
the VFW partnered with Student Veterans of America (SVA), to be there for veterans while they
pursue their education. SVA and the VFW are committed to ensuring our nation’s veterans
succeed in their educational pursuits, community service endeavors, careers and personal lives.
Working together, SVA Chapters and VFW Posts can help our nation’s veterans attain these
goals.
The mission and purpose of both organizations share a great deal of synergy. SVA offers peer
support for veterans transitioning back to civilian life and academia, frequently after serving one
or more deployments overseas. The VFW provides opportunities for camaraderie, community
service and veteran advocacy to those who have honorably served in overseas conflicts. While
SVA Chapters are unique amongst veterans groups with their location on campus. VFW Posts
are located in the same communities off campus. These two organizations can experience great
and mutual success working together through several key avenues of cooperation:







Shared access to VFW Service Officers to help file disability claims
Camaraderie, peer support and mentorship
Cooperating on community and veteran service initiatives
Conducting joint events, celebrations and recognition ceremonies
Use of VFW facilities
Pooling community connections for mutual benefit
Access to VFW Help A Hero scholarships
I would ask each District Commander and Post Commander to get a chairman for this program
and forward the contact information to me. We need someone who is willing to work the
program and does not just want a title. We can make this work if we work together.
45
TEACHERS AWARD
Chairman:
Russell Eseltine
444 Anita St. Spc 103
Chula Vista, CA 91911-4829
(C) (619) 755-9548
Post and District Chairman should refer to the National Website www.vfw.org – Community
Service – Youth & Education section. Department Website www.vfwca.org – Programs.
Materials are also available from VFW Emblem and Supply Store www.vfwstore.org
HOW TO SUBMIT A NOMINEE
To nominate a Teacher, the Post shall complete the following steps and forward this information
to your District Teachers Award Chairman. Each Post may submit no more than three (3) Post
winners; one for each grade level.
1. Original VFW Teacher Nomination form and an essay of not more than 350 words,
signed by the person nominating the teacher.
2. Official Post Teachers entry form with signatures at Post and District levels.
3. Submit a one page resume. No more than two pages.
4. Submit up to five (5) pages of additional information
5. Include a good quality head and shoulders photograph. Will accept .pdf file if good
quality.
The District Chairman shall select a District winner for each grade level and complete the
District Report Form and District Participation Summary Report and forward to the Department
Chairman along with the documents described in Items #1 - #5 above. NOTE: All entries must
be submitted to the Department Chairman by no later than Friday March 24th, 2017.
The Department Chairman will select a state winner and forward that entry and any required
reports to National. The Department Chairman will also provide Department Headquarters by
Tuesday April 4th, 2017 with a cumulative report of all of the Posts that participated, by District,
which will then be used to give credit in the All-State Program. NOTE: The accuracy of the
Department Participation Summary Report depends solely on each District submitting an
accurate District Report Form and District Participation Summary Report.
COMMON ERRORS
1. The same person MUST SIGN AND DATE BOTH the “NATIONAL VFW NOMINEE
FORM” in the “Person submitting entry” block AND the "teacher nomination letter".
2. That ALL letters of recommendation are signed and dated by the people making them.
3. That you meet the teacher photograph requirements. A teacher class room photo with
students is NOT acceptable.
4. That you review the five (5) requirements set forth under: “How to submit a nominee”,
place all documents in order (1 thru 5). Re-review for completeness.
46
AWARDS
A plaque will be awarded at the final Council of Administration, Department Convention, for the
most outstanding Post and District Teachers Award Program as determined by the Chairman.




Category K-5 - $500 to teacher + plaque
Category 6-8 - $500 to teacher + plaque
Category 9-12 - $500 to teacher + plaque
Invitation to our Department Convention, Council of Administration and Commanders
Reception.
Entry Deadline to the Post:
Post Deadline to submit to District:
District Deadline to submit to Department:
47
Wednesday, February 15th, 2017
Wednesday, March 1st, 2017
Friday, March 24th, 2017
2016-2017 DISTRICT REPORT FORM FOR THE
SMART/MAHER VFW NATIONAL CITIZENSHIP
EDUCATION TEACHER AWARD
District Number _____Chairman Name_______________________
POST #
AUXILIARY
NUMBER OF
PARTICIPATING
SCHOOLS
48
NUMBER OF
TEACHERS
NOMINATED
POST $
AMOUNT
EXPENDED
2016-2017 DISTRICT PARTICIPATION SUMMARY REPORT FOR THE
SMART/MAHER VFW NATIONALCITIZENSHIP EDUCATION TEACHER AWARD
The VFW Posts and Auxiliaries identified in this report in this District participated in the
Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher of The Year Program.
__________
Posts
__________
Auxiliaries
$ _______________________
Scholarships & Awards
__________
Teachers
_______________
Post Winners
Advanced
$________________________
Additional Money Expended
District Scholarships & Awards
$ _______________
$ _______________
Signed by: _________________________________________Date _______________
District Chairman
PLEASE COMPLETE THE “DISTRICT REPORT FORM” AND THIS
“DISTRICT PARTICIPATION SUMMARY REPORT” AND GET BOTH REPORTS TO
YOUR DEPARTMENT CHAIRMAN NO LATER THAN FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 2017
49
VAVS/HOSPITAL/HOMES
Chairman:
Randy Treadway
2812 E. Valley Parkway, APT V
Escondido, CA 92027
(P) (706) 703-2071
OUR MISSION IS TO:
1. Promote volunteerism, recreational activities and visitations for Veterans in VA and
community facilities, to include nursing homes and activities in support of home-based
care patients.
2. Provide a mechanism for recognizing outstanding performance and achievements by
health care providers and volunteers.
3. Inform and disseminate program information at the Post, District, and Department levels.
4. Generate enthusiasm and participation in all Committee programs to include the VA VFW Sponsored Golden Age Games, Operation Uplink and The Fisher House.
5. Ensure VFW Posts report their hospital activities to the Department Chairman so such
documentation can be consolidated and used by Department Officers as they deem
necessary. Refer to the VFW Volunteer Programs Manual for detailed information.
AWARDS
Awards (based on Chairman Recommendation) will be presented at the State Convention as
follows:


1st Place Post & District will be awarded a plaque.
2nd and 3rd Place will receive a citation.
50
VETERANS AND MILITARY SUPPORT
Chairman:
Marty Yingling
22601 Martin Place
West Hills, CA 91307
(C) (805) 479-6944
[email protected]
Vice Chairman (Central)
Aaron Rasmussen
17874 Yosemite Road
Tuolumne, CA 95379
(c) (951) 692-2236
[email protected]
Vice Chairman (North)
Mike Maynor
8585 Julie Lynn Circle
Tracy, CA 95304
(209) 832-2694
[email protected]
The programs that make up the VFW Veterans and Military Support Programs are Adopt-a-Unit,
Military Assistance, Operation Uplink, Sports Clip Scholarship Program and Unmet Needs.
MILITARY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (MAP) – The Military Assistance Program
is working to give service members and their families the help they need before, during and after
their deployment. We provide this through farewell events, welcome home celebrations, or
family readiness group activities. The Posts/Auxiliaries should consider the Adopt-A-Unit
Program. The program is an initiative way to involve in sponsoring military units or ships
whether they are Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard units. The sponsoring VFW
Post/Auxiliary is required to keep in touch with the unit and assist with family and community
needs. The Post/Auxiliary is required to file an Adopt-A-Unit Activity Report at least once a
year to the National organization, failure to comply with this requirement will result in removal
from the program. For details on Adopt a Unit go to http://www.vfw.org/TroopSupport/
OPERATION UPLINK – Virtual PINs are available for deployed service members,
wounded warriors and VA Hospitals. Visit http://www.vfw.org/TroopSupport/ for details.
SPORTS CLIPS HELP A HERO SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM -Scholarships of up
to $5,000 help our veterans complete their educational goals. Contact [email protected] with
questions. Application is available online only at www.vfw.org/scholarship.
Eligibility requirements include:
 Retired or honorably discharged, active duty or a member of the National
Guard/Reserves;
 Military rank E-5 or below;
 Demonstrate a need for financial assistance;
 Participate in, be accepted to or currently enrolled in a VA approved program or school
UNMET NEEDS – This program helps service members and their families who face
unexpected financial difficulties, often as a result of unexpected or extended deployments. They
can apply for cash grants of up to $5,000 to cope with emergencies and help them get through
tough times. To qualify for this grant you must have served on active duty (Any branch of the
military including Guard and Reserve units) within the past 72 months and have an Honorable or
General Discharge, or individuals who have a financial crisis resulting from Military Service,
medical emergency, death of a service member or their dependent or natural disaster. Unmet
Needs assists with basic life needs such as: mortgage and rent, home or auto repairs, insurance,
51
utilities, food and clothing. All grants are paid directly to the “creditor” and not the individual.
Each case is reviewed individually and acceptance determined by a committee. To file an
application for a grant go to http://www.vfw.org/UnmetNeeds/
MONETARY DONATIONS:
Both the State and National Veterans of Foreign Wars have obligated funds established to
support the different Veterans and Military Support Programs. You can either donate to the
individual programs (Military Assistance, Operation Uplink, Sports Clips Help a Hero
Scholarship and Unmet Needs) or to the Veterans and Military Support Program. They prefer to
have the donations to the Veterans and Military Support Program so that they can utilize the
funds where they are needed most.
AWARDS
Awards are based on Chairman’s recommendation and will be presented in both categories at the
State Convention as follows unless otherwise noted elsewhere in this guide:


52
VETERANS SERVICES
Chairman:
Tim Moore
PO Box 7745
Moreno Valley, CA 92552
(C) (951) 544-9232
Veteran service is an important priority in our country and a founding VFW tenet. Post and
District Chairmen should refer to the National VFW Program Chairmen’s Guide “It’s About
Service.” The VFW was founded on the basis of providing service to veterans, and we firmly
believe that once we can provide this service and get the word out, our membership will grow
by leaps and bounds. It’s time we step up to the plate once again and take care of our fellow
veterans.
Post Service Officers are an important position in our organization, and we want you to know
that we all work together as a team. Our organization was founded in 1899 for the purpose of
assisting veterans returning from wars with disabilities. Not everyone who serves in the military
gets disabled, but we need to make sure we’re there for those that are. We have support from
various levels in our organization, from fellow Post Service Officers all the way to our National
Service Program in Washington, D.C. with many in between.
Available are reference materials that will assist Post Service Officers in your duties. These
books and materials will greatly assist you in helping veterans. Many of the questions you may
have can be answered by reading this material.
Our staff of highly trained Department Service Officers is ready to help you with any situations
that arise. Remember, the only dumb question is the one that isn’t asked. In California, we have
three (3) Regional Offices with accredited Service Officers working full time for veterans. Our
staff attends training sessions twice a year with the National Service Program and the instructors
are experts in VA policies and procedures. We can pass our knowledge on to you.
As a Post Service Officer, you will come in contact with many seeking assistance. Please do not
turn anyone away. He or she is a veteran in need and this is no time to turn your back on them.
Assistance comes in many forms; it can be as simple as giving a phone number to the nearest
Department Service Office or filling out forms. Either way, we turn no one away.
Disabilities come in a wide range of levels, some are visible, and some are not. As a Service
Officer it is not our job to judge how bad a disability is, but rather to assist the veteran in
obtaining the benefit sought. The VA will determine whether or not service connection can be
granted.
As one of our Service Officers, from time to time we will send you items of information that we
would like you to pass on to the members of your Post. The Department website at
www.vfwca.org will have forms and information needed to complete your job. If there is
anything you need additionally, please feel free to contact one of our Department Service
Offices.
53
Veteran Service materials are available from The VFW Store or by contacting our Department
Headquarters at [email protected].
Items that are available from Department Headquarters are as follows:




Post Service Officer Guide (available every two (2) years from The VFW Store)
Department Service Officer Reference Guide
Federal Guide for Benefits
Post Service Officer ID Card
When ordering please include a Post check in the amount of twenty-five (25) dollars to cover
the cost of these materials.
AWARDS
Awards are based on the Chairman’s recommendation and will be presented in both categories at
the State Convention as follows unless otherwise noted elsewhere in this guide:


54
VOICE OF DEMOCRACY
Chairman:
Michael King
9136 Elk Grove Blvd, Suite 100
Elk Grove, CA 95624
(C) (916) 541-7559
THEME: “MY RESPONSIBILITY TO AMERICA”
SPONSORSHIP: Posts and Auxiliaries should work together on the program. As has been the
case for many years, more than one (1) Post may conduct the Voice of Democracy Scholarship
Program at a single school; however, each student will be allowed to choose the Post that will
sponsor that student. The Auxiliary to a Post may conduct the program if the Post does not. See
the National Program Guide “It’s about Service” for additional information. The entry
forms are available at www.vfw.org or from the chairman.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE and REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Post Chairmen:
Get your Post’s winning entry to your District chairman as soon as possible, but not later
than November 15, 2016. Be sure you and your Auxiliary chair have signed the entry
form in the space provided, and you have provided all Post information requested on the
entry form. You do not need a photo of your winner. If your student wins the District
competition, then the District Chairman will need a photo, so be prepared. Complete
and submit Post report based on District guidelines.
District Chairmen:
1. You need to send the District winner’s package to the State Chairman by December
9, 2016. The package includes the completed student entry form (both sides)
properly signed, a typed copy of the winner’s essay and the recording of the essay,
and a photograph of your District winner. Please send a “clear, close-up shot of
“head and shoulders”. This is required for all District Winners. Please contact your
winner and let him or her know that they will need to go to Sacramento to represent
your District at the State Finals and if selected as the state winner, they will be
expected to attend the Voice of Democracy National Finals in Washington, D.C.
Both trips will be paid for by the VFW for the student. The trip to Sacramento will
be January 19-21, 2017 and the National trip will be February 27 - March 3, 2017.
District winners not attending the State Finals will not receive State Awards. If the
State winner cannot attend the National Finals they are not eligible for National
Awards.
2. Send the completed “District Voice of Democracy Report Form” and the “District
Voice of Democracy Participation Report Summary” to the State Chairman not later
than January 3, 2017. These Report Forms have been distributed to your District
Commander and the District Voice of Democracy Chairman. They are also
55
available on the Department website and from the State Chairman. Posts and
Districts not submitting reports will not receive credit for program participation.
3. All related Voice of Democracy activities, such as award presentations (other than
the student entry form) should be reported on-line via the Department website.
AWARDS
A plaque will be awarded for the most outstanding Post and District Voice of Democracy
Program as determined by the Chairman.
Important! – To qualify for awards a Post or District must report activities via the Department
website.
Student Entry to the Post
Post Deadline for Post Winner to District Chairman
District Deadline for District Winner to State Chairman
November 1, 2016
November 15, 2016
December 9, 2016
There are no exceptions to the December 9, 2016 deadline.
ADVANCING SCHOOL WINNERS: The following is a quote from the National Program
Chairmen’s Guide. “It’s About Service.”
“Local Competition Alternatives: In recent years, interviews with teachers and school
leaders have indicated that teachers are often reluctant to encourage participation in our
scholarship competition if they are required to take class time to have their students all
complete entry forms and record their scripts. For this reason, we offer the teachers the
following options: Teachers/youth leaders are encouraged to simply use Voice of
Democracy as a written patriotic exercise. The teacher/leader has the option of:
1. Submitting all scripts and recordings to the Post for judging. Or:
2. Conducting a judging within the group and advancing one winner for every
fifteen (15) participants.
Which option above is used is ultimately the decision of the Post chairman, working
closely with the teacher, school official or youth group leader.”
What does this mean? If the school takes option 2, then the Post may advance those winners
provided by that school in addition to any other essays judged by the Post. To do this, get a list of
all students that participated in the school competition on school letterhead. The Post then can
take credit for all the students that participated at the school. Remember, 1 student may be
selected for every 15 participating, same as at the Post level.
ADVANCING POST WINNERS: Posts may advance one winner for every fifteen (15) entries
judged by the Post. The key words here are “judged by the Post.” If you receive the winners from
a school competition, as outlined above, they are not “judged by the Post.” They have come to
you already judged, and should be sent to District for judging. If the Post has 1-15 entries to
judge, then send one winner to District. If the Post has 16-30 entries to judge, then send two
56
winners to District. There is NO maximum number of winners advance winners based on the
number of essays judged.
JUDGING PROCEDURES: The National VFW Programs Chairmen’s Guide, “It’s about
Service” gives the standards for judging at all levels of competition. The Guide is quoted in part:
“Selection and use of five to nine judges is recommended (minimum of three is suggested)
at each level of competition. The best judges should be from outside your Post and
represent education, broadcasting, corporate or community leadership. Local military
recruiters also make excellent potential judges. They (judges) must not be connected in any
way with the students in the competition.”
“Select a judging site that avoids distractions. The chairman must be present for the judging
and should review all essays/recordings several days before judging to allow students to
correct minor discrepancies.”
This quote is only part of the judging guidelines, and it is the responsibility of the chairmen, at
all levels, to be thoroughly familiar with the judging criteria from National.
CONTEST AWARDS POSTS:
Students often take part in scholarship programs, such as our program, to help defray the
expenses of a college education. Every effort should be taken to make cash awards to your
winners. Many Posts and Auxiliaries have an “Awards Night” at their Post to recognize and
honor the students, their parents and teachers. Also consider making awards presentations at the
schools the students attend.
DISTRICTS: Districts should also recognize their District winners with cash awards whenever
possible. You just can’t get too much publicity. To help the District, your Department of
California has established a program to recognize each of the fifteen (15) District winners with
an all-expense paid trip to Sacramento. District winners will be the guest of the Veterans of
Foreign Wars, Department of California and visit the State Capitol, meet the Governor, if
available, talk with their legislators, tour many other sites of Sacramento, and attend the
Department Official Voice of Democracy Awards Banquet, where the state winner will be
announced. District winners will be required to stay at the Capital Plaza Holiday Inn and will
have limited access to friends and family until they are released on January 23, 2017. The
banquet will be held on Friday, January 22, 2017 at the Capital Plaza Holiday Inn.
Each student will receive $20.00 upon arrival to help defray expenses. Districts are asked to
donate $300.00 to the Department of California.
STATE: The first place winner at the state competition will receive a check for $2,000.00. Each
of the four other finalists will receive a check for $1,000.00. The remaining District winners will
each receive a check for $500.00. In addition to the cash award, the State winner will receive a
trip to Washington, D.C. February 27 – March 3, 2017, to compete for the National First Place
Award of a $30,000 scholarship. The state winner will also be invited to attend “Freedom’s
Foundation” trip to Valley Forge in June 2017.
The trip to Sacramento for the State Finals is a very special trip that the District winner has
earned on his or her own. In recent years, we have found an increasing number of families
57
desiring to come to the Voice of Democracy finals with their student. Family members and
friends are welcome to attend only one event, at their own expense, the January 22, 2017 awards
banquet that will be held at the Capital Plaza Holiday Inn. Due to the large size of our group and
other liability issues, we are not able to accommodate any additional family members or friends
on our tour bus or at any scheduled event during the three day trip. If family members or friends
do choose to attend the “Awards Banquet” they must pay for and arrange their own
transportation and lodging.
58
DISTRICT VOICE OF DEMOCRACY
PARTICIPATION REPORTSUMMARY
The VFW Posts and Auxiliaries identified in this report in this District participated in the VFW
annual Voice of Democracy Program.
__________
Posts
__________
Auxiliaries
$ _______________________
Scholarships & Awards
__________
Students
_______________
Post Winners
Advanced
$________________________
Additional Money Expended
District Scholarships & Awards
$ _______________
$ _______________
Signed by: ___________________________________________ Date ___________
District VOD Chairman
PLEASE COMPLETE THE “DISTRICT VOD PARTICIPATION REPORT FORM” AND THIS
“DISTRICT VOD PARTICIPATION REPORT SUMMARY” AND GET BOTH REPORTS TO
YOUR DEPARTMENT VOICE OF DEMOCRACY CHAIRMAN NO LATER THAN JANUARY 3,
2017
59
DISTRICT VOICE OF DEMOCRACY REPORT FORM
District Number _______Chairman Name _________________________________
POST #
AUXILIARY
(YES/NO)
NUMBER OF
PARTICIPATING
STUDENTS
NUMBER OF
POST WINNERS SCHOLARSHIPS
ADVANCED
& AWARDS
ADDL.
MONEY
EXPENDED
Only those Posts and Auxiliaries advancing one or more winners to the District
Competition will receive credit for All State and All American competition. All donations
to the Post, District and Department should be reported on the Department Website:
vfwca.org/reporting procedures and information/make a report
60
WOMEN VETERANS
Chairwoman:
Dusty Napier
PO Box 575
Hoopa, CA 95546-0575
(C) (707) 496-8104
Today, women constitute almost 15% of active-duty forces. There are more than 2 million
women who have served, comprising 8% of all veterans. Women have served in every war that
the United States has fought. California has 167,086 Women Veterans, ranking #1 in the nation.
WAR
NUMBER OF WOMEN IN COMBAT ZONES
World War I
World War II
Korean
Vietnam
Desert Storm
Somalia
Haiti
Bosnia
Grenada
Panama
Iraq, Afghanistan, & the Middle East
3,000
500,000
120,000
10,000
40,000 (7% of U.S. Forces deployed)
1,000
1,200
5,000
200
200
160,500
THE GOALS OF THIS PROGRAM INCLUDE:
1. Recruiting and retaining Women Veterans within the VFW; utilize women VFW
members in your recruitments.
2. Supporting Women Veterans in the VFW and in the community.
3. Educating individuals about the service of Women Veterans in the United States
Military.
4. Fostering true acceptance of Women Veterans.
5. Increasing integration of Women Veterans into the VFW. Where possible, assist
women veterans in attending Department level functions, i.e., Mid-Winter
Conferences, Conventions and local events benefitting women veterans.
6. Provide mentorship to women seeking leadership positions.
HOW TO REPORT
Important! – To qualify for awards a Post must submit an online report. Awards will be
presented for efforts in recruiting and support.
AWARDS
Awards will be presented at the State Convention as follows unless otherwise noted elsewhere in
this guide:
 1st Place (Post & District) will be awarded a plaque, based on Chairman Recommendation.
61
VFW Department of California
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Phone: (916) 509-8712 Fax: (916) 509-8720
MONETARY DONATIONS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF
CALIFORNIA
Based on Membership Division, each Post must make the minimum monetary
donations to Department Headquarters for the following programs in order to
achieve All-State.
Division
1
2–5
6 – 10
Amount
$75.00
$50.00
$25.00
Post No. ___________ Membership Division _____District No. _______
Program
Amount Donated
Legislative
$
Military Services
$
Service
$
Wheelchair Games
$
Programs
$
Department of California Foundation (See All-State Rules)
$
Total Amount Donated $
CREDIT CARD #: ____________________EXPIRATION DATE: ________
Name as it appears on the credit card______________________________
Visa—M/C—AE (Circle one)
Signature: ___________________________________________________
Form 2 – (Revised 5/16) Program Donations
62
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Phone: (916) 509-8712 Fax: (916) 509-8720
BUDDY POPPY ORDER FORM
Post No. ___________ District No. _______________
SHIP TO:
BUDDY POPPIES CANNOT BE SHIPPED TO A P.O. BOX
LIST YOUR STREET ADDRESS ONLY
Individual’s Name ____________________________________________________________
Street Address ____________________________________________________________
City _________________ Zip Code _____________Phone #_______________
Is this a Residence or a Post address? (Circle One)
QUANTITY
UNIT PRICE
TOTAL
_________ Buddy Poppies (minimum of 500)
$112.00 per 1,000
$_________
Note: All orders of Cans and Boards need to be made directly from National Emblem and Supply
Signed __________________________________________________________________
(Name)
(Title)
(Daytime Phone Number)
Poppies may be paid for from the Relief Fund.
CREDIT CARD #: ____________________EXPIRATION DATE: ___________
Name as it appears on the credit card_________________________________
Visa--M/C—AE—(Circle one)
Signature: ________________________________________________________
NOTE: POSTS ARE REQUIRED TO PAY FOR POPPIES AT THE TIME THE ORDER IS PLACED.
CAVFW Form 3A Revised 05/16
63
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Phone: (916) 509-8712 Fax: (916) 509-8720
BUDDY POPPY APPLICATION FOR
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS
NAME
NUMBER OF POPPIES
POST/AUXILIARY NO.
Submitted By ____________________________ Title _____________________
Post and District No. _______________/_______________
CAVFW FORM – 3b Revised 05/16
64
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Phone: (916) 509-8712 Fax: (916) 509-8720
2016 –2017 BUDDY POPPY REPORT AND APPLICATION FOR AWARDS
The following form must be used to support the application for various awards and must be sent
to the State Chairman by May 3, 2017. NOTE: November and May distributions may be
combined when reporting.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Poppies purchased for 2016-2017
Poppies used in 2016-2017 distribution
Poppies used for other purposes
Proceeds as of April 30, 2017
____________________________
____________________________
____________________________
$___________________________
Street distribution 2016-2017
Display Board distribution 2016-2017
Total for the year
$___________________________
$___________________________
$___________________________
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Number Of Display & Easel Boards distributed by post __________to businesses______________
Number of Volunteers: Post_____ Men’s Auxiliary _____ Auxiliary_____
How are the proceeds divided? Post _________________% Auxiliary(s)_________________ %
Total hours spent on Poppy distribution? _________________________
Are you entering a display at the Convention? Post ______ Auxiliary _______
How many in each Category (limit 3) #1 ______#2_______#3_______#4_______#5_______
10. List on other form the number of Poppies distributed by Post and Auxiliary members over 1,500 for
awards.
11. Post membership 2016-2017___________________
Men’s Auxiliary membership 2016-2017________________
Auxiliary membership 2016-2017_______________
Submitted by ________________________ Title ___________________________________
Post No. ______________ District No. _______________
CAVFW Form – 3c Revised 05/16
65
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Phone: (916) 509-8712 Fax: (916) 509-8720
DISASTER CLAIM APPLICATION
NAME: _________________________________________________________________
MEMBERSHIP NO. _______________________ MEMBER SINCE ________________
POST & DISTRICT NO. ____________________________________________________
CURRENT ADDRESS: _____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
CONTACT TELEPHONE NUMBER: __________________________________________
GIVE BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF LOSS:
IF THE MEMBER WAS FORCED TO EVACUATE THEIR HOME AND AREA BUT SUSTAINED
NO ACTUAL DAMAGE TO THEIR HOME BUT INCURRED COSTS FOR LODGING, SUBMIT
COPIES OF RECEIPTS FOR LODGING.
ADDRESS WHERE CHECK SHOULD BE MAILED:
PRINTED NAME AND SIGNATURE OF PERSON VALIDATING THIS CLAIM
________________________________
(PRINTED NAME)
_________________________________
(SIGNATURE)
(DATE)
CAVFW FORM – 7b Revised 05/16
66
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Phone: (916) 509-8712 Fax: (916) 509-8720
NATIONAL HOME REFERRAL OF CHILDREN
(TO REFER CHILDREN TO THE VFW NATIONAL HOME, MAIL THIS COMPLETED FORM TO:
VFW NATIONAL HOME, 3573 SOUTH WAVERLY ROAD, EATON RAPIDS, MI 48827)
PARENT’S VFW POST NAME:
___________________________NUMBER: _________
POST COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS:
CITY, STATE, ZIP:
FATHER’S NAME:
ADDRESS:
CITY, STATE, ZIP:
IS FATHER LIVING:
YES____NO___
IS FATHER DISABLED YES___NO___
YES___ NO___
IS MOTHER DISABLED YES___NO___
MOTHER’S NAME:
ADDRESS:
CITY, STATE, ZIP:
IS MOTHER LIVING:
REFERRAL MADE BY: NAME:
ADDRESS:
CITY, STATE, ZIP:
FAMILY NAME
CHILDREN
APPROXIMATE AGE
_______________________________
_____________________
_______________________________
_____________________
Please provide additional information on a separate sheet of paper or on the reverse side of this form.
CAVFW FORM – 20 Revised 05/16
67
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Phone: (916) 509-8712 Fax: (916) 509-8720
MEMORIAL SERVICE FUND DONATION
The Memorial card sent from Department Headquarters will read:
TO:
NEXT OF KIN: Name(s) ___________________________________________________
FROM: PERSON/POST/AUXILIARY MAKING DONATION:
______________________________________________________________________________
IN MEMORY OF:
______________________________________________________________________________
(DECEASED PERSON’S NAME)
(PRINT THE NEXT OF KIN’S FULL ADDRESS ON THE LINE ABOVE)
Send this completed form and your check made payable to “VFW Department Service Fund” to
Department Headquarters at 9136 Elk Grove Blvd., Suite 100, Elk Grove, CA 95624.
68
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Phone: (916) 509-8712 Fax: (916) 509-8720
PROGRAM SPONSORSHIP REGISTRATION FORM
1. NAME OF THE PERSON/DISTRICT/POST/AUXILIARY WHO IS SPONSORING THIS
AWARD?
2. WHICH PROGRAM(S) WOULD YOU LIKE TO SPONSOR?
(NOTE: Some Programs require both money and a plaque.)
3. NUMBER OF YEARS FOR SPONSORSHIP? _______
4. AMOUNT OF MONEY ENCLOSED? $_____________
(Monetary Award + $100.00 per Plaque x # of Years Sponsored)
Example of the names and annual value (cost) of the awards:
Example #1
Nick Guest
Department of California
Voice of Democracy Award
1st Place
Example #2
West Valley Post No. 2805
Department of California
Patriots Pen Award
1st Place
Values
Example #1 -Cost - $2,100.00 ($2,000 - Award + $100 - Plaque)
Example #2 -Cost - $1,100.00 ($1,000 - Award + $100 - Plaque)
Send this completed form and your check made payable to “VFW Department California” to
Department Headquarters at 9136 Elk Grove Blvd., Suite 100, Elk Grove, CA 95624.
69
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Phone: (916) 509-8712 Fax: (916) 509-8720
SERVICE OFFICER REGISTRATION FORM
Posts should enroll their Service Officer prior to September 1, 2016.
Note that any member in good standing (in addition to Post Service Officers) can be registered as
a Service Officer.
If you would like to receive the PSO materials, submit this form along with $25.00 prior to
September 1, 2016
Post No.
District No.
Name: __________________________________________________________
Membership Card #: __________________________
Mailing Address: __________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
Phone #: _____________________________
Email Address: ___________________________________________________
Fee paid by: check number ___________ in the amount of $ ________________
(MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA, VFW – Earmark
PSO Materials)
Credit Card type ________________________________ Amount_________________
Card number___________________________________Expiration______________________
CAVFW FORM – SO Revised 05/16
70

DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA

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