Lifetime Achievement Award

Nomination Form

Recognize a member whose lifelong service and leadership embody the mission and values of the VFW.

Purpose

The VFW Department of Washington Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes members whose sustained service has profoundly shaped their Post, community, and the Department as a whole. This is among the Department’s highest honors—celebrating a lifetime of selfless commitment to veterans, civic duty, and the ideals of our organization.

"This award celebrates not just years of membership, but a lifetime of meaningful impact.”

Eligibility

Must be a current VFW member in good standing within the Department of Washington.
Must have demonstrated exceptional leadership, mentorship, and participation across Department, District, and Post levels.
Must have a record of continuous and honorable service to veterans and the community for at least 10 years of active involvement.
Must have been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces.
Previous recipients are not eligible for reconsideration.

For Post-specific recognition, Posts may mirror this SOP with local adaptations (e.g., minimum years of membership or unique presentation ceremonies).

Nomination Process

Nomination Period: Annually from January 1 through March 31.
Nomination Form: The official Department form must be completed and signed by the nominator and Post Commander.
Submission: All nominations must be submitted electronically to the Department Adjutant at adj@vfwwa.net.
Documentation: Include letters of recommendation, news articles, and evidence of community or VFW service.
Confidentiality: All nominations are reviewed in confidence by the Department Awards Committee.

Selection Committee

The Department Awards Committee is appointed by the Department Commander and typically includes:

Department Commander (Chairperson)
Senior Vice Commander
Junior Vice Commander
Department Adjutant
Immediate Past Department Commander

The Committee evaluates all nominees, ensuring that selections reflect the highest standards of service and integrity.

Selection Criteria & Scoring

Each nominee is evaluated on a 1–5 scale using the following weighted categories:

VFW Service (40%) — Leadership positions, mentorship, and impact on Department and Post operations.
Community Service (30%) — Volunteerism, partnerships, and civic engagement demonstrating the VFW’s values.
Patriotism & Values (20%) — Embodiment of duty, loyalty, and honor.
Overall Impact (10%) — Measurable, lasting influence on veterans and the organization.

Award Presentation

The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented annually during the Department of Washington Convention. The honoree receives a framed certificate, engraved plaque, and public recognition for their enduring service.

      
			Presenter: Department Commander or their designee.
Recognition: Honoree’s name will be entered into the permanent Department "Wall of Honor.”

Responsibilities

Department Commander: Oversees the process, approves final selection, and presents the award.
Adjutant: Maintains records, manages submissions, and supports committee operations.
Awards Committee: Reviews and evaluates all submissions fairly and confidentially.
Public Relations: Coordinates photography and announcements.

Nomination Form (Appendix A)

Veterans of Foreign Wars – Department of Washington

Nominee Information:

Name: _________________________________________________
VFW Member Number: __________________________________
Branch of Service: ____________________________________
Years of Active Membership: ____________________________
Highest Office Held: ___________________________________

Nominator Information:

Name: _________________________________________________
Post Number: _________________________________________
Contact Email: ________________________________________

Nomination Justification: Provide detailed examples of the nominee’s service, leadership, and lasting contributions. Attach documentation as needed.