VFW Department of Arizona · 2026–2027
Commander's Corner
A message from Department Commander Deuce Brandt
A.I.M. Advocacy with Integrity and Mentorship — 2026–2027 Department Motto
2026–2027
Deuce
Brandt
Department Commander
VFW Dept. of Arizona
"Advocacy with Integrity and Mentorship”
Congratulations on your election to Commander. Whether you are a first-time Commander, have previously held, or continue another year in command, I welcome you all and thank you for your continued service and support to the Post, District and Department. Together we shall succeed through proactive leadership, set the example for others to follow, work collaboratively, and communicate often while upholding the oath we took to continue serving veterans and families.
My Motto this year is "Advocacy with Integrity and Mentorship” or "A.I.M.” It is our pledge to focus our energy and daily work by putting the veteran, their families and our communities as our priority while using the utmost integrity. Legislatively ensuring every earned and deserved benefit is received, and that we ALL have the support we need from the lasting effects of service to our nation, will be a main lane of effort as well.
I hope you find this year both fun and fulfilling. If we work as a team and remain focused on the mission we can and WILL do many great things that will have a lasting effect beyond ourselves and this year.
True leadership is not defined by the rank you once held, but by the integrity you demonstrate every day as a volunteer. You provide a blueprint for the next generation to follow. Your commitment to mentoring others ensures that the values of discipline and loyalty remain steadfast, transforming your legacy from one of past duty into a living example of character that inspires everyone around you.
Expectations
Commander Expectations 2026–2027
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1
Earn All-State Honors.
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2
Promote teamwork between the Post and its Auxiliary. Your word is your bond — say what you mean and mean what you say.
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3
Promote teamwork between the VFW and other community groups and organizations. Be a leader, be positive, use integrity and mentor others.
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4
Promote and support the Service Officer program.
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5
Be up to date. Visit the Department and National websites regularly. Check your email often. Read and distribute the General Orders from the Department and National. Have an up-to-date Podium Edition of the VFW Congressional Charter Bylaws, Manual of Procedure and Ritual.
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6
Ensure that your Post Officers and Chairpersons know their jobs and are fulfilling their duties. Mentor them, conduct school of instruction, and be the example.
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7
Promote and support Youth Programs in your Post and District.
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8
Promote and support the National Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan.
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9
Ensure Posts properly report Community Service activities through the Dashboard.
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10
Be visible in your community — POW-MIA awareness, Loyalty Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Veterans’ Day, and other patriotic occasions.
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11
Ensure Posts distribute Buddy Poppies at least twice per year.
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12
Maintain current Post membership and actively recruit new members.
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13
Stay informed on legislative needs and issues affecting veterans.
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14
Post and District Commanders must have a representative at ALL Council of Administration meetings.
Communication
How We Communicate
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Monthly Staff Calls — First Tuesday every month at Department HQ. Mandatory for all VFW Line Officers. Auxiliary Line Officers encouraged. May be held via Zoom when necessary.
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District Commander Zoom — First Tuesday at 6:00 PM. All District Commanders (Auxiliary Presidents welcome). Critical information, problem-solving, and key action items.
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Post Commander Zoom — First Tuesday at 7:00 PM. All Post Commanders (Auxiliary welcome). Open discussions are encouraged — every voice matters.
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Monthly Bulletins — The Department webpage and Facebook page are leveraged for event promotion and important updates. Leaders at all levels are encouraged to take advantage of these resources.
Leadership
Chain of Command
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I have an open-door policy — reach out. With the expectation that leaders at all levels are engaged and solve problems at the lowest level possible.
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If there is any police contact at a Post, District, or VFW event, the Department must be informed immediately.
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When making decisions consider: (1) Is it Legal, Ethical, and Moral? (2) What will it cost financially and personally? (3) What is the reality vs. the perception?
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Treat every member, veteran, and community partner with dignity and respect. Our reputation is built one interaction at a time.
"We are united by a common purpose: to serve those who have served. As One Team, we bring our unique skills, perspectives, and dedication together to meet the needs of our nation’s heroes. ONE TEAM, ONE MISSION, VETERANS FIRST.”
— National Commander-In-Chief, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
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