Greetings Wisconsin AMVETS Family! The time has come. First, I would like to thank everyone that has gained trust and confidence in my ability to serve as your AMVETS Department of Wisconsin Commander. I would like to thank Past Department Commander, Steve Chesna, for nominating me in every Elected Department Officer position throughout my journey. And I would like to thank all the Past Department Commanders for their mentorship, guidance, and encouragement while working up the ladder to Department Commander. I am looking forward to working with each one of you in the Department and making this organization better each day.
“Veterans Serving Veterans”, will be my MOTO this coming year because that is what we do as AMVETS. My Commanders project/program, joined by our newly elected AMVETS Department of Wisconsin Auxiliary Presided (Mary Woiak), is a non-profit organization called Sofas for Service. This inspiring organization located in the Eau Claire, Wisconsin area, provides donated household furnishings free to Veterans in need.
As the Commander I cannot and will not do everything on my own. I will be relying on our newly elected Department, 1st Vice Commander Tim Wendt, and 2nd Vice Commander Jeff Bedward. Continuous communication between myself and District / Post Commanders is a priority of mine resulting in a more effective and efficient organization.
Recruitment of new membership is everyone’s responsibility. Spread the AMVETS companionship and reach out to a new AMVETS Family member. Without your recruitment efforts, this organization will slowly disappear over time.
I look forward to seeing each one of you at our scheduled and invited events. Bring a friend! We have a wonderful team working for the AMVETS Department of Wisconsin this year. Mary Woiak (Auxiliary President), Lily Krueger (White Clover Princess), and I will do our absolute best to represent YOU, the Department of Wisconsin and AMVETS. To a great year (2026-2027).
