COMMANDER€™S INITIATIVES

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VFW Department of Washington · 2026–2027

Commander's Initiatives

A year of action: reconnecting veterans, strengthening Posts, and turning leadership into meaningful service across Washington.

Frank Persa · Department Commander

Featured · 2026–2027 Department Commander's Special Project

Help veterans find their next mission.

The Commander's Special Project supports A Hero's Promise, a Washington organization helping veterans rediscover connection, belonging, and purpose after military service.

Official Special Project

A Hero's Promise

Transition from military service can mean losing a close-knit team, routine, and shared mission. A Hero's Promise helps veterans build new connections through activities, outdoor experiences, and sustained community involvement.

ConnectionPurposeCamaraderieCommunity
Learn About A Hero's Promise →

This year's opportunities

Show your support. Lead by example.

Find the official Commander apparel collection and the Department's 2026–2027 All-State program. These are separate programs with their own details and requirements.

Official 2026–2027 Apparel

State Commander Apparel

Represent Washington's VFW at meetings, conventions, community events, and everyday activities. Three styles are listed on the Department's ordering page.

Polo $25+T-shirt $20+Camp shirt $40+

Personalization, size options, pickup, shipping, and availability are confirmed on the official ordering page.

Department Recognition & Membership

2026–2027 All-State

Build strong, active Posts and Districts through membership growth, retention, training, community service, and VFW program participation.

  • Review the official requirements and award criteria.
  • Understand District-to-Department submission routing.
  • Track deadlines, reporting, and required program participation.

Program distinction: Ordering a Commander shirt is not presented here as a donation to A Hero's Promise. For All-State credit, follow the current program packet, approved payment instructions, and documentation requirements.

Related ways to strengthen the mission

Turn the mission into action.

These established Department resources help members and Posts support the year's leadership, membership, and service goals. They are cross-links—not additional Commander special projects.

For Posts, members, and supporters

Four practical ways to take part

You do not need a new committee or a complicated plan to begin. Choose a meaningful action, communicate it, and follow through.

1

Choose your action

Support the Special Project, order apparel, or select a service and leadership opportunity.

2

Share the mission

Discuss the initiative at a Post or District meeting and invite others to participate.

3

Follow official guidance

Use the linked program instructions for payments, nominations, submissions, and reporting.

4

Build lasting impact

Keep records, recognize contributors, and turn a one-time activity into ongoing involvement.

Officer & member links

Useful Department resources

Go directly to existing resources without changing the navigation names or duplicating the Department's official instructions.

Ready to support the mission?

Start with the Commander's Special Project, bring the initiative to your Post, or contact Department Headquarters for assistance.

VFW Department of Washington · 2026–2027 Commander's Initiatives · Page revision 1.0.0 · 30 October 2026.

This page is a navigation and introduction hub. The linked Department pages and official program documents govern current eligibility, donations, apparel availability, deadlines, and submissions.