An Unconventional Convention

In this dynamic episode of #StillServing, host Rob Couture is joined by Mike Figlioli, Gabby Kubinyi, Ryan Gallucci, and Brittany Dymond Murray to break down a truly historic VFW National Convention in Columbus, Ohio, the organization’s birthplace. From the logistics of setting the stage and running the Claims Clinic to the long hours of delegate business, the team offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how convention comes together.

The conversation dives into the emotional impact of the Afghanistan War Commission, where veterans courageously shared personal experiences, frustrations, and lessons learned from America’s longest war. They also explore the power of member-driven decision-making, including contested floor votes and a spirited debate over tradition and change. The episode crescendos with the landmark election of Carol Whitmore as the VFW’s first female Commander-in-Chief, setting a new chapter in the organization’s history.

From healing conversations to historic milestones, this episode captures the heart of the VFW’s mission — proving that the voice of every veteran matters, and that together, they are still leading, still advancing, and still serving.

Featured Guests:

- Mike Figlioli – Director, VFW National Veteran Service

- Gabby Kubinyi – Associate Director, Grassroots Advocacy, VFW Washington Office

- Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office

- Brittany Dymond Murray – Associate Director, VFW Public Affairs & Strategic Outreach

Episode Highlights:

0:00 Intro and Roll Call

2:35 Setting up Convention – Behind the scenes in Columbus

6:25 Claims Clinic and Health Fair – Direct support for veterans

10:02 Fall Legislative Conference Training preview

12:42 Brittany’s reflections on Convention

14:17 Afghanistan War Commission – Emotional stories and lessons learned

31:52 Resolutions and Nominations – Key business and delegate decisions

38:12 VFW Riders become an official subsidiary group

41:47 Baseball cap approved for VFW meetings

45:34 Unique floor vote for National Commander

57:34 Gabby’s first convention back with the VFW

1:00:42 Election of first female Commander-in-Chief, Carol Whitmore

1:09:55 Awards Banquet

1:12:25 Special Change of Command Ceremony

1:13:40 Ask the VFW – New Q&A segment launches

1:23:19 The Good of the Order – Closing reflections

1:28:38 Meeting a VFW Founder’s great-grandchild

For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit:

VFW Convention Highlights

Veterans of Foreign Wars Website

VFW Podcast Page

@VFWHQ on Twitter

VFW on Facebook

@RobCoutureVFW on Facebook

Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW

Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program.

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