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The Advocate is a monthly VFW Department of Michigan publication. If you would like to feature your veteran focused events in your community, please contact department at pr@vfwmi.vet

Comrades,

I couldn't have asked for a better time at Fall Conference. It was wonderful seeing fellow members from all over the state, it truly rejuvenated my spirit as commander and reinforced my vigor for veteran and family advocacy. Many questions and comments were made on ways Department can better assist Districts and Posts. Thank you for your feedback, I hear you, and we are working on refining our support to best fit your needs to be successful in supporting your communities.


The fall season is upon us and we are not slowing down! Many of you will be out and about in your communities hosting events and drives during the upcoming holiday season. I'm excited to hear your experiences, as I know you will represent the VFW well. Thank you for all you do, you truly change lives every day you are committed to serving along side your brothers and sisters in this organization.


Ray Lopez, State Commander, VFW Department of Michigan

VFW Michigan donates $15,614 to cancer research

The VFW Department of Michigan donated $15,614 to the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute for cancer research during their annual Fall Conference in Flint, Mich., Sept 29.  These funds were collected last year under the leadership of Past State Commander John Griffith, who presented the donation to Karmanos. This year, VFW Department of Michigan Commander Ray Lopez has chosen the organization’s cancer program as his special project for his year of leadership.

"[Cancer] can be debilitating for not only the person with the condition, but also the caregivers," Lopez said. "We want to be part of the recovery process and give people hope.” Read more here.

     

VFW awards life membership to local Korean War & Vietnam Veteran community leader

The VFW Department of Michigan awarded Bill Schrader a life membership after his many years of community service.

Bill, a U.S. Army, Korean War and Vietnam veteran, donated $30,000 to the Michigan Veterans Home at Grand Rapids this year. The home provides quality long-term nursing care for veterans who need assistance with living. The donation was raised from his organization, Christmas Light Show.

"It's a home for veterans who don’t have anything,” Schrader said. "They are like minded people and I wanted to support them.”

Bill, a Silver Star Medal recipient from the Korean War, and retired U.S. Army veteran, has dedicated his life to serving the American people.

Read more about Bill and his story of service  on our website here

     

👻 A Haunting at Department 👻

When you find yourself alone at the VFW Department of Michigan Headquarters building, you may hear footsteps, doors slamming, or unexplainable noises that send a chill down your spine.


It is well known among the VFW and VFW Auxiliary staff that a presence lingers at 924 N Washington Ave. in Lansing, Michigan. Encounters with this mysterious…thing have occurred repeatedly, leaving some afraid to stay after hours, and others growing used to the company.


Read full story here.

     
     
     

Things to look out for 

For more information on any of the featured topics, click any of the images below, or go to our online calendar to stay up to date on all department events.

The deadline for Voice of DemocracyPatriot's Pen and Teacher of the Year submissions to Posts are October 31. Posts must then submit their entries to their Districts by November 16.  Lets recognize the amazing youth in your area and their teachers by submitting entries and nominations to your District leadership. Winners of the essay contests can win thousands of dollars in scholarships, and teachers receive special recognition and funding as well. Learn more about the programs and how to submit entries on our website.

     
     

**Many of these sponsors are are looking to hire veterans! To find out more, please contact them directly.

WE WANT TO FEATURE YOU!

If you have an event or function you'd like to highlight on behalf of your Post or District, send photos and a write-up with details to pr@vfwmi.vet. Your submission may be selected to be featured in the next Department Newsletter!

   

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