Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

In a city where the beginnings of World War II took place, a truly historic moment unfolded in the veteran community in Alexandria, Louisiana yesterday—one that quietly carried profound significance. For those present, it marked a powerful display of unity and shared purpose among America's premier veterans service organizations. During their overlapping Mid-Winter conferences in Alexandria, the VFW Department of Louisiana and the American Legion Department of Louisiana came together in the same city at the same time. In a rare and meaningful gesture of solidarity, American Legion National Commander Dan Wiley addressed the assembled members of the Louisiana VFW. Joining him on the VFW side was VFW National Senior Vice Commander Cory L. Geisler, whose presence amplified the event's weight. While the VFW and American Legion maintain distinct membership criteria and proud traditions, there is zero question about their overlapping missions and immense value to communities nationwide. Both organizations remain steadfast champions of veterans advocacy, community service, support for military families, and critical efforts to combat veteran suicide—working tirelessly to ensure no veteran is left behind. A heartfelt thank you goes to Commander Wiley for going above and beyond: not only speaking directly to Louisiana's VFW members but also making time to visit local American Legion posts in Lafayette and connect with student veterans at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. His leadership exemplifies the spirit of collaboration that strengthens the entire veterans movement. The same deep gratitude extends to Senior Vice Commander Geisler, whose unwavering call for Congress to finally pass the Major Richard Star Act—a long overdue bill to restore full retirement pay and benefits to combat-injured veterans without offset—resonated powerfully through the room. His stern message was a reminder to our members in Congress that our wounded warriors deserve nothing less than full honor and support after their sacrifices. Finally, a resounding shout-out to American Legion Post 504 (Francis-Benoit Post) in Lafayette. If you want a living example of what a veterans service organization can achieve, visit this remarkable post. These dedicated men and women are making a tangible, everyday difference—supporting veterans in need, fostering community ties, and modernizing their approach to better serve today's generation. They embody the best of what these organizations stand for. Events like this remind us that when the VFW and American Legion stand together, the voice for veterans grows stronger, louder, and more effective. Here's to more unity, more advocacy, and more victories for those who've served. Office of Governor Jeff Landry, Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, Jerome Buller, MD, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), The American Legion, Catholic War Veterans of the United States of America, Ramesh Kolluru, Bobbie Ragsdale, Louisiana National Guard