Chaplain of the Year Award | VFW Department of Washington
VFW Department of Washington
Chaplain of the Year Award
Reverend Thomas Darling — Past National and State Chaplain
Recognizing one outstanding Chaplain each year whose faith, compassion, and service to comrades and their families exemplify the spirit and mission of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Nomination deadline
April 1 each year
Who may nominate
Posts and Districts: one nominee each
Presentation
Department Convention in June
Where nominations go
Submit to the State Chaplain using the online nomination form below. Chaplain of the Year is routed directly to the responsible Department program leader under the submission process for programs outside All-State.
The Department Adjutant receives District submissions for All-State programs. For this award, the State Chaplain chairs the nomination review; the State Commander and Adjutant provide final approval after the committee makes its recommendation.
Award criteria
Performance of duties
Exemplary character and conduct, including integrity, professionalism, dependability, and timely reporting. Performance above and beyond normal expectations of the position.
Personal attitude
A positive and professional attitude in all contacts, representing the Veterans of Foreign Wars in the best possible way.
Commitment to ministry
A true sense of calling to serve comrades and their families, offering spiritual guidance and support when needed and showing compassion in all interactions.
Membership
Membership in good standing at the Post, District, and Department levels.
Prepare your nomination
Have these items ready before completing the online form:
The nominee’s full name, mailing address, phone number, and email address.
The nominee’s VFW Post and District number.
A written statement of no more than two pages describing qualifications and accomplishments.
The nominee’s hat size for award-presentation purposes.
Include specific examples of spiritual leadership, compassionate service, support to comrades and families, memorial or funeral services, visitation, community involvement, and other exceptional contributions.
All nominations must be received by April 1.
Recommended nomination and review process
October: The State Chaplain distributes nomination information each year.
Prepare a nomination: Posts and Districts may each submit one nominee. Include all items in the nomination checklist.
By April 1: Submit the nomination through the online form for review by the State Chaplain and committee.
By April 30: The selection committee submits its recommendation to the State Commander and Adjutant for final approval before the announcement.
June: The approved recipient is announced and honored at the Department Convention.
Nominations not selected will be retained for Department records.
Review committee
The State Chaplain, serving as chairperson
One State Line Officer
A recent past recipient of the Chaplain of the Year Award
The committee reviews all nominations using the established criteria. All deliberations remain confidential.
Honoring the recipient
The State Commander and State Chaplain present a distinctive Chaplain of the Year Hat and a framed certificate at the Department Convention in June.
The recipient’s name is permanently recorded among the Department’s Chaplains recognized for exceptional service to veterans, families, and the community.
Online nomination form
Complete the form below and include the required nomination information. The form is provided through Fillout.
This award reflects the Department’s appreciation for Chaplains who serve with compassion, dedication, and integrity while embodying the VFW motto, "No One Does More for Veterans.”
