Honor The Dead By Helping The Living: Focus on the VFW Washington Office

Veterans are a unique breed of individuals. They are the only demographic in the nation tied together by the oaths they take to the country and the values they hold instilled in them from the moment they step off that bus at boot camp. As they continue through life, the values, like duty and selfless service, continue to drive many of them to not walk past problems in their communities. When they see a need they step up to meet it. It's just who they are.

During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with Pat Murray, Director of the VFW's National Legislative Service who talks about the work his team does with Congress on behalf of veterans' rights. Then, Ryan Gallucci, Director of the National Veterans Service discusses what National Veteran Service is and how VA accredited VFW service officers help veterans and their families get the benefits they are due. And, Bob Jackson, Director of Operations at the VFW Washington office tells us about some of the history of the VFW Memorial Building and its unique role as the silent Sentinel on Capitol Hill.

Pat Murray, Director, VFW National Legislative Service —

• Pat shares his Marine Corps service story and how, today, he helps veterans with disability, employment, and education issues. [3:03]

• The National Legislative Service works face-to-face with Congress as the public voice of VFW on Capitol Hill. [8:08]

• Pat describes the process of how veterans' interests are introduced to Congress, how the issues are resolved, and partner organizations. [11:57]

• Current topics being addressed include Toxic Exposure Benefits. [21:50]

• How to sign up for the VFW Action Corps and how to support veterans. [28:27]

Ryan Gallucci, Director, National Veterans Service —

• Ryan shares his Army service story and how he came to advocate for veterans as Director of the National Veterans Service. [33:55]

• The National Veterans Service trains a global network of accredited advocates and represents 500,000-plus veterans for free. [43:02]

• Certain consulting groups not affiliated with the VA have taken advantage of newly transitioning veterans. [51:38]

• The importance of paying it forward by joining the VFW. [59:44]

Bob Jackson, Director of Operations, VFW Memorial Building —

• Bob recalls his service story, which started in 1976. [1:05:38]

• A virtual tour of the majestic VFW Memorial Building, which has a rich history of service to the country. [1:11:14]

• The VFW is the only service organization that ensures the U.S. Government keeps its promise to all service members. [1:28:48]

For more information or continue the conversation, please visit:

Veterans of Foreign Wars Website

VFW Podcast Page

@VFWHQ on Twitter

VFW on Facebook

@RobCoutureVFW on Facebook

VFW Unmet Needs Program

Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW

Text "NEEDS" to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program

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