VFW Action Corps Weekly
VFW Urges Congress to Pay Our Troops: The Veterans of Foreign Wars joined Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, along with fellow organizations that serve the military and veteran communities, at a press conference calling on Congress to end the government shutdown and pass H.R.5401, Pay Our Troops Act of 2026. VFW National Legislative Associate Director Joy Craig reminded lawmakers, “This shutdown is not just a debate in Washington, it’s a kitchen-table crisis for military and veteran families across the country.” She cautioned that while current paychecks are being covered through temporary funding shifts, future pay is not guaranteed. Craig added, “No one who has sworn an oath to this nation should have to wonder if their paycheck will come.” Watch the press conference.
Senate Advances Defense Bill Strengthening Transition & Quality of Life: The Senate united to pass its $925 billion National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, marking a bipartisan breakthrough despite the ongoing government shutdown. The bill includes several provisions long championed by the VFW, including enhanced TRICARE benefits supporting women and family health, increased funding for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, and the creation of a senior DOD official to oversee military-to-civilian transition policy. It also directs DOD to pilot a new housing allowance model to improve affordability and accuracy. Senate and House Armed Services Committee leaders will now negotiate a final version for passage before the end of the year. Read more.
VFW Junior Vice Commanders Training: VFW senior leaders and staff convened in Kansas City, Mo., for the annual Junior Vice Commanders training conference. The event featured comprehensive presentations on all aspects of the VFW designed to equip attendees to fulfill their current responsibilities, and to prepare them for future leadership roles within the organization. VFW National Legislative Deputy Director Nancy Springer briefed on legislative advocacy, outlining strategies to engage and mobilize VFW and Auxiliary members in support of the VFW’s legislative priorities. She encouraged attendees to join Action Corps to stay informed on relevant legislative activity and respond to Action Alerts so Congress hears directly from our advocates on important veteran issues.
MIA Update: The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced no identifications or burial updates this week.