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Continue the VFW MISSION

As the 2025-2026 VFW Connecticut Commander—and the first Iraq and Afghanistan veteran to hold this position in our Department—I will advance the VFW mission and strengthen our commitment to the foundational goals of oldest and largest war veterans service organization in America.

– ACCOMPLISHMENTS –

Veteran Leadership

Organized and Co-Chaired the joint America 250 Connecticut Veterans Coalition (2025-present)
Organized and Chaired the Save Our Cemetery (SOC) Campaign (2024-present)
2023 VFW All-American District Commander
Three-Time, VFW All-American Post Commander
Four-Year, VFWCT2 District Commander
Municipal Veterans’ Representative, City of New Haven
Organized and Chartered VFW New Haven Post 12150
Organized and Chartered American Legion New Haven Post 210

ENDORSEMENTS

✅ SEE FULL LIST

Endorsement

ALL VFWCT Districts

2023

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF

Edward S. Banas

2003-2004

Past commander

Ken C. Hartline

2020-2021

Past commander

David Greene

2019-2020

Former Staff Sgt. Charles M. Pickett operates an MKII Bridge Erection Boat on the Helmand River in Afghanistan in April 2011 while deployed with the 814th MRBC in support of OEF. — Former Staff Sgt. Charles M. Pickett operates an MKII Bridge Erection Boat on the Helmand River in Afghanistan in April 2011 while deployed with the 814th ENCO in support of OEF.

Pickett was among a select group of Connecticut veterans invited to declare New Haven, CT the pizza capital of the United States. — Pickett was among a select group of Connecticut veterans invited to declare New Haven, Connecticut the pizza capital of the United States.

In Nov. 2025, Pickett organized and chaired The Save Our Cemetery (SOC) Campaign to endure a dignified final resting place for our state’s military heroes in Connecticut. — In Nov. 2024, Pickett organized and chaired The Save Our Cemetery (SOC) Campaign to ensure a dignified final resting place for our state’s military heroes in Connecticut.

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