Reflections from the National Council of Administration Meeting

As one of your National Council Members, I had the honor of representing my Department at the Veterans of Foreign Wars National Council of Administration meeting, held on September 21, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri. The National Council is the Board of Directors of our great organization, and the decisions made here shape the future of the VFW.

This session focused on financial stewardship, accountability, and ensuring that every decision aligns with our mission of serving veterans and their families.

Key Highlights from the Meeting

• Financial Commitments to Our Future

  • Approved $100,000 in capital expenditures for our Kansas City building.

  • Increased the budget for the DC Memorial Building project to $19 million, underscoring our commitment to honoring the legacy of veterans in the nation’s capital.

• Supporting Our People

  • Adjusted employee salary brackets by 3.3% to remain competitive.

  • Approved Jeff Carroll for a five-year term on the Retirement Plan Board beginning in March 2026.

• Retirement and Compliance Updates

  • Confirmed termination of West Virginia’s retirement plan due to a lack of eligible participants.

  • Directed all units using the VFW name or marks for foundations/charities to disclose documentation within 90 days to ensure compliance.

• New Partnerships

  • Approved a licensing agreement with Torch Drinks LLC, with revenue managed per VFW policy.

• Policy and Travel Matters

  • Discussed travel policy enforcement, including reimbursement limits and potential updates on eligibility for past Commanders-in-Chief. While a motion for expanded reimbursements failed, the focus remained on fiscal responsibility and fairness.

A Message of Unity and Accountability

The Junior and Senior Vice Commanders-in-Chief closed the meeting with gratitude for the dedication and professionalism of the Council. They reminded us of the importance of unity, transparency, and purpose in advancing the VFW’s mission.

As I reflect on this meeting, I am reminded of why I am running for VFW Jr. Vice Commander-in-Chief. Our strength lies not just in the motions we pass, but in how we carry forward the mission at every Post and in every community. Leadership in the VFW must remain grounded in service, accountability, and bold action.

Moving Forward Together

This meeting reaffirmed our shared commitment: to serve veterans, protect our legacy, and ensure that our organization remains strong for the next generation.

My campaign is built on three guiding principles:

Be Bold. Be Courageous. Be VFW.

I am proud to stand alongside you, carrying the voice of our members into every decision at the national level. Together, we will continue to ensure that the VFW truly lives up to its motto: “No One Does More For Veterans.”

— Paul Herrera

National Council Member, Candidate for VFW Jr. Vice Commander-in-Chief