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Paul Herrera for Jr. Vice Commander-in-Chief

Honor the Contract: VFW Members Advocate for Veterans in Washington

Every year, veterans from across the nation travel to Washington, DC to make their voices heard where it matters most.


The VFW Washington Conference brings together members who understand that showing up in the nation’s capital matters. It is where veterans meet directly with Senators and members of Congress to discuss the issues affecting those who served.


This gathering is more than a conference. It is grassroots advocacy in action.


When veterans speak directly to lawmakers, the conversation changes. Behind every policy debate are real people, real sacrifices, and real responsibilities our nation must uphold.


Why Veterans Must Speak for Themselves

When Americans volunteer to serve, they enter into a solemn agreement with the nation.


The VFW calls this promise “Honor the Contract.”


If service members are wounded, become ill, or carry the lasting impacts of war home with them, America has a duty to care for them and their families. That obligation is not charity. It is the cost of war and a responsibility the nation must fulfill.


Veterans who attend the Washington Conference bring firsthand experience into congressional offices.


They remind lawmakers that legislation is not abstract policy. It affects real lives.


This kind of advocacy:

  • Builds relationships with lawmakers

  • Gives Congress direct insight into veterans’ needs

  • Holds elected officials accountable

  • Ensures veterans help shape national policy


Face-to-face conversations remain one of the most effective ways to move veterans’ issues forward.


Group of seven people in military-style hats pose on U.S. Capitol steps. They're smiling, wearing mostly dark clothing with some red shoes.
Department of Washington #VFWDC2026 Delegation

Key Issues at the VFW Washington Conference

During the conference, VFW members focused on several legislative priorities that directly impact veterans and their families.


Major Richard Star Act

One of the most important priorities is the Major Richard Star Act.This legislation would restore full retirement pay to combat-wounded veterans who were medically retired.


These veterans earned both benefits. Ending this offset corrects a long-standing injustice.


PACT Act Implementation

The PACT Act addressed toxic exposure affecting thousands of veterans.


Now the focus is ensuring the law is fully implemented so veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxins receive the healthcare and benefits they earned.


Access to VA Healthcare and Mental Health Services

Veterans must have timely access to high-quality healthcare.


The VFW continues pushing for improvements that reduce wait times, expand access, and strengthen mental health services that many veterans depend on.


Protecting Veterans from Predatory Claim Consultants

Too many veterans are targeted by unaccredited consultants who charge illegal fees to help file benefits claims.


The VFW continues working with Congress to strengthen protections and ensure veterans receive honest assistance.


Improving Transition Assistance

Nearly 200,000 service members transition out of the military each year.


Strong transition programs help veterans move successfully into civilian careers, education, and community life. The VFW continues advocating for improvements that support that transition.


The Strength of Veterans Working Together

The Washington Conference demonstrates what happens when veterans unite with a shared purpose.


Members from across the country stand together and deliver a clear message to lawmakers:

Veterans are engaged.

Veterans are informed.

Veterans will continue advocating for those who served.


Leadership That Carries the Mission Forward

Western Conference candidate for Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, Paul Herrera, represents that same commitment to service and advocacy.


Strong leadership ensures the VFW continues fighting for veterans in Washington and across the country. Paul Herrera’s campaign reflects the dedication required to advance the VFW’s legislative priorities and protect the benefits veterans earned through their service.


The Work Continues

The Washington Conference is not the end of the conversation.


It is the beginning.


The real strength of the VFW comes from veterans who remain engaged, speak up, and continue advocating for one another.


When veterans stand together, their voices carry far beyond the halls of Congress.


And together, we will continue ensuring that America honors the contract it made with those who served.




 
 
 
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