John Keene Western Conference Candidate for Commander-in-Chief Designee 2027/28

Fidelity | Fraternity | Philanthropy

Past Colorado State Commander 2023/24

Innovative Leader

John's vision for the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is to overcome the stereotype of a smoke-filled canteen that serves cheap beer and to once again be considered the hub of our communities. He want to see the day when we no longer need to recruit new members because our organization is so attractive that potential new members seek us out. To accomplish this, John suggests we change our mindset, improve our skillset, and put into motion a plan of action.

An example of a new mindset is to recognize that VFW Posts are small businesses, as they are all incorporated, have Tax ID numbers and file 990s, and our elected and appointed officers operate like a corporate board.

By learning and applying business skills and techniques, recognizing that it is always easier and more cost effective to retain a customer/member than to find a new one, the VFW can reverse the trend of losing members out the back door while focusing on attracting new members.

Corporate Partnerships

Leverage HR Departments, sales staff, medical clinics, and DME providers to refer veteran employees, customer, and patients to local VFW service offices.

Community Partnerships

Collaborate with other non-profits to share space, ideas, and resources as a force multiplier when performing community service.

INITIATIVES

Some of the things John has been working on

Service Office Resources

Fundraising Through Whiskey

Corporate Partnerships

American-Made Mech Store

Veteran Homelessness

Expanding Grant Opportunities

Developing Affordable Veteran Housing

Legislative Advocacy

FAFSA Disability Question Removed

Surviving Spouses Bill Introduced

CHAMPVA Legislative Fix

Automatic Claims Upon Presumption

Testimonials

This statement is on behalf of Mr. John Keene. I met Mr. Keene years ago as he was on the track to become Department of Colorado Commander for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. I have watched his rise to State Commander and found he had the qualities that could carry him much higher should he choose.

My years and experience in military and civilian organizations taught me to be observant and who I could rely on. Mr. Keene displays all the qualities of a superior leader. His integrity and honesty lay the base of someone who is trustworthy and fosters loyalty. His demeanor is that of a man who listens and gathers information before speaking. When speaking he is a clear and concise speaker with a command surety and voice. He is receptive to council from his staff and others. He has a sense of humor and can ease any tense situation and keep it from escalating. John has been very approachable and has always been helpful when I asked for his advice. His drive is immeasurable and he works tirelessly toward improvement of our organization. I detect he possesses a kind heart which drives him to do more than others around him. He can analyze a situation and envision solutions that others may not see. It would be easy to go on infinitum. In short I have a profound respect for Mr. Keene for all he is and has done for not just VFW in Colorado, but for me as an individual.

I hope this letter is taken in the manner it was intended. Mr. Keene deserves consideration for any position he wishes. He is certain to make a positive impact on any organization. He has my full endorsement to any future efforts.

Sincerely,

John Clifford Davis III

Adjutant/Quartermaster

VFW Post 5231

John Keene’s dedication to our country and our veterans is exemplary. We worked together to ensure the calculation of veteran’s disability income was removed from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and to draft federal legislation that would create a grant program to support surviving spouses of disabled veterans from becoming housing insecure. John's understanding of public policy and his commitment to enacting reform, especially for disabled veterans and surviving spouses, truly sets him apart from other advocates.

Ryan Shuman

former Congressional Policy Advisor.