Denise Perry is #StillServing as a member of VFW Post 6054 in Aberdeen, Maryland. She’s also the State Quartermaster with the Department of Maryland, a VFW National Council member and a community advocate for veterans.
Perry served for more than five years in the U.S. Army and Reserve. After leaving the military in 1984, she gave her time to her family and other interests. In 2006, the Post Commander asked her to join the VFW.
“He put me to work right away. That’s when I learned about the community service the VFW does,” Perry recalled.
While she has gotten very involved in many aspects of the VFW and the service opportunities it provides, Perry sees her work with the Unmet Needs program grants as some of the most valuable. It is meaningful for her to help veterans in need by providing assistance for transportation, housing and other necessities.
“As the quartermaster, I contact the veteran and the payee once the grant is approved. There have been occasions where I’ve had to personally deliver the funds to the payee because of the urgency of the situation,” said Perry.
“Sometimes community groups contact me when a veteran is in need. There was a veteran who was living in a hotel with his wife and four children because his apartment was unfit to live in. We helped him with his hotel expenses and getting his VA benefits. Being able to help a family through a tough time is a blessing.”
Perry’s involvement in caring for veterans has led to new ways to serve in her community and around the state over the past year.
“I’m also serving on the State Veterans Commission and the Harford County Veterans Commission. These are advisory commissions to the Governor and the County Executive,” Perry said.
“Most people don’t know about the veteran community, their needs and their families’ needs. It’s important for veterans to have a voice in addressing their concerns.”
Perry is glad she was invited to join the VFW and given the chance to make a difference in the lives of fellow veterans. She plans to keep doing all she can locally, regionally and nationally to ensure service members and their families receive the care, benefits and services they deserve.
“The VFW is standing strong in support of our veterans and their families. This is why I’m proud to say ‘I am the VFW,’” stated Perry.
“I am the VFW because I’m continuing to serve.”
To find out more about the VFW's #StillServing campaign or to share your story, visit vfw.org/StillServing.