May 15, 2026
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States mourns the passing of Past Commander-in-Chief Edward S. Banas Sr., a devoted leader, Vietnam veteran and lifelong advocate for America’s veterans and military families. He was a respected member of the VFW whose decades of service left a lasting impact on the organization and the veteran community nationwide.
Banas was elected the 2003-2004 Commander-in-Chief of the VFW during the organization’s 104th National Convention in San Antonio, Texas, becoming only the second member from Connecticut to hold the organization’s highest office.
A proud Army veteran, Banas served from 1965 to 1968, including service in Vietnam with the 18th Military Police Brigade. His military decorations included the Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Army Good Conduct Medal.
While still serving on active duty in 1967, Banas joined VFW Post 10004 in Jewett City, Connecticut, beginning a lifelong commitment to the organization and its mission. Over the years, he served in numerous leadership positions at every level of the VFW, including Post Commander, All-American District Commander and Department Commander of Connecticut.
Nationally, Banas served on several key VFW committees, including Safety, By-Laws, Budget & Finance, and served as chairman of the Americanism and Legislative committees. He also represented the Departments of Connecticut and Massachusetts on the National Council of Administration and served as chairman of the Eastern States Conference.
Following his military service, Banas continued his commitment to service as a member of the Norwich Police Department, where he served for more than a decade. During his law enforcement career, he was active in several professional associations and pursued advanced studies in constitutional law, police management and criminal investigations.
Banas was a member of the American Legion, the Voluntown, Connecticut Historical Society and remained a Life member of VFW Post 10004.
Chief Banas dedicated his life to serving others — first in uniform, then in law enforcement, and for decades as a tireless advocate for veterans through the VFW. His leadership, integrity and unwavering commitment to veterans and their families strengthened this organization and inspired generations of VFW members.