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June 30, 2026                                                                                                                  (916) 329-9180 

Sacramento, CA – The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of California concluded its 106^th Annual State Convention on June 21 in Sacramento, where members elected a new slate of statewide officers led by State Commander Paula Jansen. The five-day convention brought together VFW and Auxiliary leaders from across California to conduct organizational business, receive leadership training, recognize outstanding service, and establish priorities for the coming year. 

2025-2026 State Commander David Kuta praised the newly elected officers and the great work accomplished at the convention. "It has been an honor to serve as the State Commander of the VFW Department of California. Our department has accomplished great things for individuals and their families and I am thrilled to see how the newly elected officers enhance this record of service. I extend my greatest thanks to everyone to who attended the convention and helped set the tone for the new year to come!” 

"The VFW continues to play a vital role in supporting veterans, military families, and our communities across California,” said 2026-2027 State Commander Jansen. "I am honored to serve as State Commander and look forward to working with our Posts and members to strengthen our programs, expand our membership, and ensure every veteran has access to the support and resources they have earned.”

During the convention, delegates reviewed statewide programs, advanced organizational priorities, and recognized Posts and individuals for exceptional service to veterans, military families, and their communities. Attendees also participated in leadership development sessions, committee meetings, and training designed to strengthen support for veterans throughout California.

Commander Paula Jansen was officially installed as State Commander, along with all other new officers, during the convention. Her motto for the year is: "Going Over & Above Together.” Jansen is a California native from a long line of military veterans spanning all branches of service. After 21 years of service, Jansen retired from the U.S. Navy as an Aviation Storekeeper Chief. She joined the VFW in 2012 and became a Gold Legacy Life Member in 2021. She is a Cootie Life Member of Pup Tent 79, a charter member of Pup Tents 66 and 79, and a Century Life Member of the VFW National Home. Jansen brings extensive leadership experience within the VFW, having served at the Post, District, and Department levels in both elected and appointed positions.

Read Commander Jansen’s full biography at: 

https://vfwca.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=74101&d=y&subid=35415

Additional officers elected and installed during the annual State Convention include:

• John Hernandez – Senior Vice Commander, Marines
• Wendy Calderon – Junior Vice Commander, Navy
• Deborah Johnson – Quartermaster, Army
• Frank Correa – Chaplain, Air Force
• Andrew Miller – Adjutant, Army

American Indian Veterans Memorial Dedication

VFW Post 1956 is honored to announce the dedication of the American Indian Veterans Memorial at Riverside National Cemetery on Saturday, May 2, 2026. This significant monument pays tribute to Native American, Alaska Native, and Pacific Islander veterans and represents a historic addition to Riverside National Cemetery.

At the center of the memorial stands "The Gift," by artist A. Thomas Schomberg honors 200 years of military service and the enduring sacrifices of American Indian veterans throughout our nation's history.

This project, initiated in 2005, was made possible through years of dedication and broad community support. The VFW Department of California and District 3 VFW Posts were honored to contribute to the realization of this memorial. 

We invite members, families, and the community to attend this historic dedication! 

Veterans of Foreign Wars            Menifee VFW Post 1956   P.O. Box 321 Menifee, CA 92586

EIN: 95-3319357- 501(c) (19) Veteran Non-Profit: C2326557

 COMMANDER’S CORNER