PETER SZABO
810 Oxford Way
Benicia, CA 94510
(707) 746-0396 -- FAX (707) 747-5106

     As we move into a new century it is imperative that we continue our march to increasing the membership of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California. To do this the District Commander must select a District Chief of Staff and as many Deputies as needed who are knowledgeable and active. The District Chief of Staff should, along with the District Commander, make visits to each an every Post in his or her District. The Chief of Staff and Deputy Chiefs of Staff should be at the beck and call of the District Commander to assist with membership, new Post recruiting and mediating of problems with the District and Posts.

     One of the areas the Department Chiefs of Staff will be working on this year is to get all Posts in the State to have up to date By-Laws and to become incorporated. Comrades this is a must. With frivolous lawsuits now a norm we must protect our members and ourselves. With proper By-Laws and being incorporated we can stop the frivolous lawsuits. But we will need your help as a Post and District Commander.

     The Department Chief of Staff team this year will be ready to assist at a moments notice in any way it can. The team is composed of members who are capable, loyal, and dedicated to a better VFW in California. We are ready to assist any Commander in the resolution of problems and the expansion of our membership whenever called upon.

     All District and Department Chiefs of Staff should turn in a Chief of Staff report (CAVFW-06) at least quarterly. The form is located in this Program Guide Book and can be duplicated. I know that with the District and Department working together, we can and will keep, the Department of California leading the way for our veterans and nation.