Located a few hundred yards from the U.S. Capitol, the VFW D.C. Office is in a prime location to get the job done for veterans! Dedicated in 1960, it is a hub of activity
all designed to better serve veterans in many different aspects. Senior Vice Commander Hal and I had the
opportunity over several days to meet with the staff and our newly minted
Executive Director and past Commander-in-Chief, B.J. Lawrence.
We received briefings on Public Relations, National Security
& Foreign Affairs, National Legislative Service, and Administration &
Economic Opportunity, and National Veterans Service. Additionally, Human Resources gave a leadership
briefing. After talking with the HR
Director we realized she is passionate about her job and wanted to move away
from the more negative sounding “Human Resources” to a more friendly and
appropriate name, “People Operations,” Being a good leader, Hal made a few phone calls and voila! VFW now has a
People Operations Department, better known now as POPS. Yes, things can be done if people just reach
out and work together!
In addition to briefings we did get out of the office and
that meant short drives across town.
Mama Cass was exceptionally cooperative getting in and out of the car
after riding in the very back. Always a good thing to keep the dog happy! The site visits included meeting at the National
Capitol Region Benefits Office and a meeting with the head of the Board of
Veterans Appeals. As a former Judge, I particularly
enjoyed talking with Sylvester about the Board process and how the Judges operated.
Overall, I have a more in-depth understanding of what goes
on in the D.C Office, much deeper than the thumbnail sketch most of us
have. What stands out about the visit is
one thing: The people! These are some of the most dedicated and professional
individuals I have met and they all have a burning desire to do one thing: Make the world better FOR VETERANS. If you ever get a chance to visit the VFW D.C. Office, do it. You will not be
disappointed!
