More About John
A modern VFW Biography
Fidelity | Fraternity | Philanthropy
Fidelity comes from the Marine Corps Motto, Semper Fidelis, and reminds John of the “unselfish comradeship and loyalty to our organization” stated in our ritual. Fraternity represents our purpose “to assist worthy comrades, perpetuate the memory and history of our dead, and to assist their surviving spouses and orphans” as stated in our Charter. Philanthropy is the means by which we can accomplish our goals; through the generous donation of our time and by utilizing the donations and grants from our supporters.
Biography
USMCR 1985-1997
Eligibility: Operation Desert Storm
Police Officer/Paramedic 1992-2006
Realtor/Managing Broker 2006-Present
Post 1 Gold Legacy Life Member
Little-known facts
As a Chicago Police Officer, John spent over three years investigating dog fighting and animal abuse. On a brighter note, in 1988, John was on the gameshow Scrabble with host Chuck Woolery.
Accolades
All-American Colorado State Commander, 2023/24 | Commander of an All-American Post x3 | Commander of an All-State Post x2 | Quartermaster of an All-State Post | Department Recruiter Award x2 | Meritorious Graduate MCRD, San Diego | Navy Achievement Medal | Illinois State Police Academy Valedictorian | Chicago Police Academy Outstanding Recruit | Chicago Police Department Commendation Medal | Numerous Sales and Production Awards as a Realtor
Vision
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.
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.
