Restoring Integrity and Fair Leadership in the VFW

As I take my first steps in the campaign to earn the right to be the VFW Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, I want to share the vision that drives me. The Veterans of Foreign Wars has served as a vital support network for veterans across the nation for over 125 years. However, recent actions within our organization highlight a significant need for change.

Historically, the VFW has maintained a commitment to balancing representation among its Conferences during leadership selections. Yet, this tradition was recently set aside when the Western Conference’s choice for Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief was overlooked in favor of an alternative candidate from a different Conference. This turning point has made it clear that we need leadership grounded in fairness, integrity, and true service to veterans.

A Legacy of Service

VFW leaders have always been people who earned their respect through dedicated service, not through political games. They fought passionately for the rights and needs of veterans, ensuring every voice was valued. For instance, in fiscal year 2024, the VFW helped more than 146,000 veterans submit new VA claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Members also contribute more than 5.9 million volunteer hours annually and donate about $50.8 million to community projects nationwide. This commitment to advocacy shows what true leadership looks like.

I aspire to mirror this legacy. I want to ensure that every member, regardless of their background or affiliation, has their needs addressed and their voices heard.

Balancing Tradition and Change

The recent decision to bypass the Western Conference’s candidate for Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief was historic. There is nothing wrong with competition; in fact, having more candidates to choose from strengthens our democratic process. More voices mean more ideas, and more ideas make our organization stronger.

At the same time, many members remind us that tradition is the anchor of our unity. For over 65 years, an understanding has existed among the Conferences to ensure leadership opportunities are balanced. That balance has built trust and stability across our organization.

The lesson is clear: we don’t have to choose between "old school" and "new school". Our future depends on honoring the lessons of yesterday while welcoming the ideas of tomorrow. Leadership should reflect both respecting our history while ensuring today’s membership feels represented and heard.

The Importance of Fairness

The recent bypassing of the Western Conference’s candidate for Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief has raised critical questions about fairness within our organization. We cannot afford to disregard the agreements and practices that have long helped maintain balance within our organization. Many members have expressed that maintaining fair representation in leadership choices is essential for unity and trust within our ranks. For some, fairness means honoring the traditions that kept the balance for decades. For others, it means opening the door to more candidates and new ideas. Both views matter, and fairness means respecting them equally. Ignoring this principle alienates members and threatens the foundation of the VFW.

Every Conference deserves a say in leadership decisions. By including all voices, we create a more inclusive and democratic environment, benefiting our entire organization.

A Call for More Candidates

Encouraging a diverse range of candidates is vital for a stronger VFW. When more members decide to run for office, it empowers everyone to make informed choices. A wider selection boosts the democratic process and ensures our leadership mirrors the variety of experiences and insights present within our membership.

I am passionate about nurturing an atmosphere where potential candidates feel inspired and supported to run for office. When more members step forward to run for leadership, engagement grows because people feel their voices matter and their choices count. By promoting candidacy, we can solidify a VFW that truly encapsulates our core values and the needs of all members.

Leadership Rooted in Integrity

As I pursue the role of Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, I want to stress the critical role integrity plays in leadership. Members deserve leaders who exhibit honesty, transparency, and accountability. Integrity must be reflected in every decision we make; doing the right thing has to be our guiding principle.

Doing the right thing isn’t just a tagline; it's our guiding principle. I am committed to demonstrating integrity in our leadership and working collectively to ensure our VFW is an organization we all take pride in.

Honoring Our Traditions

Tradition is essential for the VFW, demanding that we respect the agreements and practices that have served us well for many years. Across our Posts and Conferences, members often remind me that honoring tradition is crucial for maintaining morale and unity. By valuing our history, we can construct a brighter future for our organization.

The Western Conference deserves its rightful place in our leadership framework. Let’s work towards restoring balance and fairness, so every Conference's voice is heard and represented.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, I feel hope and determination for the VFW. I envision a unifying, inclusive organization that honors the traditions that built our foundation while embracing the changes that keep us strong and relevant today. Our dedication to supporting all veterans depends on both. With more than 1.4 million members worldwide across nearly 6,000 Posts, our potential to grow and strengthen the VFW has never been greater.

I invite you to join me on this vital journey. Together, we can restore integrity and fair leadership within the VFW. By uniting our efforts, we can be strong advocates for veterans and their families, now and into the future.

Closing Thoughts

Ultimately, I am dedicated to the values of leadership, integrity, and service. As I run for the position of VFW Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, I promise to advocate for every member and ensure our leadership reflects the diverse needs of our organization.

Let us honor our traditions while looking forward to what’s ahead. Together, we can build a VFW that truly represents all its members and remains a source of pride for our communities. I look forward to the opportunity to serve alongside each of you in this critical mission.

From Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan, VFW leaders stand united. Paul Herrera joins Joshua Schreck and Past Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt in championing veterans’ voices in Washington, D.C.