STATE CHAPLAIN OF THE YEAR AWARD

The Department of Washington Veterans of Foreign Wars will annually recognize one outstanding Chaplain from within the Department as the State Chaplain of the Year. This award honors the Chaplain who best exemplifies the spirit and mission of the Veterans of Foreign Wars through faith, compassion, and service to comrades and their families.

CRITERIA

1. Performance of Duties
   Exemplary character and conduct, including integrity, professionalism, dependability, and timely reporting. Performance above and beyond normal expectations of the position.
2. Personal Attitude
   Maintains a positive and professional attitude in all contacts, representing the Veterans of Foreign Wars in the best possible way.
3. Commitment to Ministry
   Demonstrates a true sense of calling to serve comrades and their families. Offers spiritual guidance and support when needed and shows compassion in all interactions.
4. Membership
   Must be a member in good standing at the Post, District, and Department levels.

REVIEW COMMITTEE

• The State Chaplain (Chairperson)
• One (1) State Line Officer
• The most recent Past Recipient of the Chaplain of the Year Award

The committee will review all nominations using the established criteria. All deliberations will remain confidential. The committee’s recommendation will be submitted to the State Commander and Adjutant for final approval prior to the announcement.

PROCEDURES

The following procedure is recommended for receiving and reviewing nominations:

1. The State Chaplain will distribute nomination information in October of each year.
2. Posts and Districts may each submit one nominee for consideration.
3. Nominations must be submitted directly to the State Chaplain.
4. All nominations must be received by the State Chaplain no later than April 1.
5. Each nomination should include:
   • The nominee’s full name, address, phone number, and email address.
   • The nominee’s VFW Post and District number.
   • A typed statement not exceeding two (2) pages outlining qualifications and accomplishments.
   • The nominee’s hat size for award presentation purposes.
6. The selection committee will review all nominations and submit its recommendation to the State Commander and Adjutant by April 30.
7. The approved recipient will be announced and honored at the Department Convention in June.
8. All nominations not selected will be retained on file by the State Chaplain for record-keeping.

AWARD

The State Chaplain of the Year Award will be presented during the Department of Washington Veterans of Foreign Wars Convention in June. The recipient will receive a distinctive Chaplain of the Year Hat and a framed certificate presented by the State Commander and State Chaplain.

The recipient’s name will be permanently recorded among the Department’s list of Chaplains who have demonstrated exceptional service to veterans, families, and the community.

SUBMIT NOMINATIONS TO

This award reflects the Department’s appreciation for Chaplains who serve with compassion, dedication, and integrity — embodying the VFW motto, "No One Does More for Veterans.”