RENO, NV (July 28, 2026)—Veterans of Foreign Wars Department Commanders from the 2025-2026 year, presented class gifts to VFW Commander-in-Chief Carol Whitmore at the 127th VFW National Convention.
Past Department of Connecticut Commander Charles M. Pickett presented a “simple yet meaningful shadowbox displaying all of our unique pins,” to be hung in the brand-new, VFW National Home Convenience Store. Whitmore and VFW National Auxiliary President Lois Callahan raised more than $134,000 in joint VFW and Auxiliary fundraising project to establish the much-needed, mini-store for residents.
Additionally, Past Department of Kentucky Commander Nicole Horseman presented Whitmore a proclamation naming her an Honorary Kentucky Colonel. The Governor bestows this honorary civilian commission to individuals for noteworthy community service, remarkable deeds, or achievements. It is considered to be the highest and most prestigious title of honor awarded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Video of the Vimeo live-stream event, is on video 3 of 8 starting at 1:29.
Images from presentation
Scripted Address:
It is customary for Department Commanders to present a class gift to their Commander-in-Chief to show our appreciation and honor our collective accomplishments.
This year’s gift idea was born in an airport lounge during Senior Vice Commander training, where we sketched out a plan on a cocktail a napkin during a meeting with VFW Auxiliary National President Lois Callahan and National Secretary-Treasurer Ann Panteleakos.
The concept was a simple yet meaningful shadowbox displaying all of our unique pins. It will hang in the brand-new VFW National Home Convenience Store to commemorate our joint VFW and Auxiliary project. Thanks to your incredible efforts, we raised more than $134,000 to transform an empty space into a much-needed, self-service store.
Sincere thanks to Whitmore’s Warriors, the VFW National Home, and Wall Street Gallery in Madison, Connecticut, for hand-crafting the custom shadowbox. We also extend our gratitude to our partners in the VFW Auxiliary. They have an identical shadowbox featuring their Department Presidents’ pins to hang in the store—a true tribute to the unity between our two great organizations and two great leaders.
Inscription:
Presented by Whitmores ’ Warriors to Commander Carol Whitmore. In honor of your leadership, your devotion to the National Home, and your commitment to to our motto, “For Veterans, By Veterans.”
