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 how 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
Commander of an All-American Department, Colorado 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
When I first met John, he was new to the VFW and eager to learn the organization's ins and outs.
I am pleased to say that, through the years, he has exceeded my expectations for his future.
John is an honest, principled, and hardworking individual who sees things through. His professionalism shows in everything he does. He takes his experiences and applies what he has learned to the next level as he goes.
I am proud to endorse his candidacy for Junior Vice Commander in Chief Designee… and Beyond.
John J. Holland
National Chaplain 2011-2012
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 counsel 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 ad 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 for 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 veterans’ 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 set him apart from other advocates.
Ryan Shuman
former Congressional Policy Advisor.
There was a time in my life when I looked up to sports heroes, celebrities, and high-powered business executives. I admired their fame, their wealth, and their public influence. But over the years, that perspective has shifted. I’ve come to realize that the people who make the most lasting impact on our communities aren’t always in the spotlight. Often, they’re humble, mission-driven individuals—those who show up every day with dedication and purpose, not for applause, but to serve others. John Keene is exactly that kind of leader.
I’ve had the privilege of working alongside John in various veterans’ initiatives throughout Colorado, and I’ve seen firsthand the depth of his commitment to improving the lives of those who served. Through his leadership roles at both the local and state levels of the VFW and his tireless collaboration with other veteran-focused nonprofits, John has helped uplift thousands of veterans, offering not just services but also hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging.
What sets John apart is his ability to bring people together. He embodies a "collaboration over competition" philosophy, consistently working to build partnerships that enhance community impact rather than compete for recognition. Whether it's uniting local organizations for a common cause or empowering Posts to share resources, John has built bridges where others saw barriers.
Our conversations over the years have touched on everything from how to run a VFW Post like a well-oiled business to how to modernize operations with smarter processes and technology. John understands that for the VFW to thrive into the future, it must evolve—strategically, sustainably, and with accountability. He doesn’t just talk about innovation; he puts it into action.
John Keene leads with humility, vision, and a servant’s heart. He’s not just preparing to take on the role of Commander-in-Chief—he’s already living it. As a member of the VFW community and as someone deeply committed to the future of veterans’ care and advocacy, I can think of no better individual to lead this next chapter.
It is with great pride and complete confidence that I endorse John Keene for Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief designee of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Sincerely,
Todd Youngblood
Member of the board of directors:
Pneuma Gladius
The Invictus Fund
Past President - Colorado Veterans Project
It is my honor to offer this testimonial for John Keene. Over the years, I have worked closely with John on veteran healthcare strategy and witnessed his extraordinary ability to drive real change for those who, like him, have served.
John is not only a visionary but a results-driven leader who tackles challenges head-on. He forges innovative partnerships between public and private sectors, ensuring that veterans receive comprehensive, forward-thinking care. His leadership was instrumental in expanding the "Uniting to Combat Hunger" initiative to address veteran homelessness, a move that profoundly increased support for those most in need.
What truly distinguishes John is his integrity, open communication, and ability to inspire trust across the veteran community. He unites diverse stakeholders, encourages collaboration, and empowers others to contribute meaningfully—qualities essential for leading any organization in service and impact.
John’s passion for veterans is evident in every action he takes. His strategic vision, combined with a personal mission to serve, enables him to address both immediate needs and the broader social determinants affecting veterans’ lives. I am certain that John will continue to lead with the same dedication, innovation, and compassion he has consistently demonstrated, thereby strengthening the impact on veteran health and wellbeing for years to come.
Stephanie Muckey
Strategy Advancement Advisor | Veterans
Marine Corps Spouse & Caregiver – Semper Fi
Humana
