VFW Public Servant Awards
Honoring those who protect, serve, and save lives across our communities
About the Awards
Each year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars honors outstanding individuals in the fields of emergency medical services, law enforcement, firefighting, dispatch, and explosive ordnance disposal.
These awards recognize those who demonstrate courage, excellence, and unwavering commitment to public service.
Deadlines
December 1
Entries submitted to Post
December 15
Post entries submitted to District
January 1
District entries submitted to Department
February 1
Department submits one finalist per category to National Headquarters
Award Categories
Recognizes individuals or groups providing emergency medical treatment, rescue service, or civil disaster response as part of a public or volunteer organization.
Honors municipal, county, state, or federal officers enforcing public law. Private security employees are not eligible.
Presented to those actively engaged in firefighting, rescue operations, or community protection through public or volunteer service.
Recognizes dispatchers who provide critical coordination between callers in distress and emergency response personnel, ensuring swift and accurate deployment of help.
Honors individuals who manage, identify, and neutralize explosive threats in public service, military, or law enforcement contexts.
Criteria
Nominees must demonstrate:
- Recognition by colleagues or those they serve
- Consistent excellence in the performance of their duties
- Dedication to professional growth, responsibility, and community service
Required Documentation
- Entry Form (Post Level)
- Nomination letter including:
- Candidate’s name, title, address, and phone number
- Background, accomplishments, and awards
- Justification for nomination
Posts should send all completed nominations to their District by December 15.
Submission Instructions
Send all Department entries to:
VFW Department of WashingtonAttn: Public Servant Awards
5213 Pacific Highway East
Fife, WA 98424
Department deadline: January 1
The Department will review all District nominations and submit one winner per category to National Headquarters by February 1.
