This past week, Wenatchee was host to the Department of Washington Annual Convention, 18-20 June 2026. This is an event where VFW Post and Auxiliary members from across the state of Washington gather to give and receive training, to provide state-level committee updates, and to honor exceptional members, Posts, and Districts from across the state for their hard work all year.
While this event spans a total of 3 days, most of the relevant activities took place on Thursday and Friday. The first day was dedicated to training covering topics such as Community Service, Membership & Recruiting, Combating Stigma and Suicide Prevention, as well as Post Benefits Advisors. Thursday afternoon also included a Joint Memorial Service and a Meet & Greet with our National Representatives.
Friday was the primary Business day of the convention. Post and Auxiliary held separate business sessions where department-level program chairpersons gave updates on their programs and distributed some awards (if applicable). The day’s business was concluded mid-afternoon, allowing time for members to change and return to the Convention Center for the Banquet Friday evening.
During the banquet, we heard from National Commander-in-Chief Carol Whitmore, National Conductor Janey Feher, Department Commander Drew James, Department President Robyn Sterrett, as well as our incoming officers Frank Persa and Tracie Tomsen. There were also a number of awards presented during the evening, recognizing this year’s All-American Posts and Districts, top recruiters, and a handful of programs awards. One of the nice big surprises was our beloved Char Lauer being honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. It was fantastic that so many of our members could be at the banquet to cheer for her as she received this prestigious award right here in Wenatchee! [Editor’s note: click the linked text to read the full announcement of Char’s award.]
After the delicious food, speeches and clapping wrapped up, we managed to get a group photo (or 5) near the large VFW backdrop. Thanks to everyone who came out and represented the Wenatchee Valley!
