California Veteran Magazine

In the Fall 2026 issue, former POW Colonel Michael Lee Brazelton writes on captivity, freedom, and those who never came home. Plus information on the role of delegates and District 4 Commander Rob Cancio speaks to the importance of shining light on a sacred space.

Click HERE to Read

NOTICE

The August issue of Checkpoint is out! Open it up to read all about the great work of VFW Posts around the country. If you are not receiving Checkpoint, email magazine@vfw.org and get signed up.

August Checkpoint

U.S. ARMY

The U.S. Army is made up of the most dedicated, most respected soldiers in the world. These soldiers protect America's Freedoms while serving at home and abroad, and they are always prepared to defend the nation in times of need.

U.S. MARINES

We are soldiers of the sea, providing forces and detachments to naval ships and shore operations. We are global leaders, developing expeditionary doctrine and innovations that set the example, and leading other countries' forces and agencies in the multinational military operations. These unique capabilities make us "First to Fight", and our nations first line of defense.

U.S. NAVY

America's Navy is a force as relevant today as it's been historically significan for the last 238 years. The times may change, the threats may become more obscure, the complex nature of 21st century life may make the demand for such presence less obvious. However, now more than ever, the Navy is something to be aware of Something to be thankful for. Something to be proud of.

U.S. AIR FORCE

Air Force has a vision of Global Vigilance, Reach and Power. That vision orbits around three core competencies: developing airmen, technology to war fighting and integrating operations. These core competencies make our six distinctive capabilities possible.

NATIONAL GUARD

Our versatility enables us to respond to domestic emergencies, overseas combat missions, counter-drug efforts, reconstruction missions and more.

U.S. COAST GUARD

We protect the personal safety and security of our people; the marine transportation system and infrastructure; our natural and economic resources; and the territorial integrity of our nation-from both internal and external threats, natural and man-made.

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WELCOME TO BILL COLLINS_BARSTOW

Bill Collins Memorial Post
As yesterday's defenders of freedom, we want to welcome today's military service members into our ranks to become part of our elite group.  Our common bond is the battlefield, whether it is service in the Persian Gulf, Korea, Kosovo, the war on terrorism or peace-keeping expeditionary campaigns. Your courage and sacrifice have made a difference in preserving and defending world peace.
 

DONATE TO BILL COLLINS_BARSTOW

Our programs support our service members while they are on the front line, as they are being discharged and long after they return. Your donation will be immediately directed to the VFW programs where your support is most urgently needed.

DONATE NOW

IN-COUNTRY

A satirical reflection by Author/Artist Phil Fehrenbacher

Phil enlisted in the Army in 1965 where you served for years in Vietnam.  He became a graphic designer and has worked for the state of Oregon for 26 years.  He retired in 2003 and started the Cartoon "In-Country".  The cartoons reflect his experiences during his tour of duty in South Vietnam.


There is a new cartoon everyday.

Announcements

Here's what's happening at Bill Collins Post 2143, Barstow, CA.
The admin here on our official VFW website would like to hear the stories, achievements, awards, and/or bio's from our members or their families to post on our mEMBERS HONORS AND STORIES section. We also have a TAPS section to post any obits of our HERO's to this site for others to see. Please sent your information to Jim Bledsoe: jebsoe2gmail.com or to Rick Ingram: movaric@gmail.com and we will post it on the appropriate section. Thank you for your participation in this endeavor to honor our members, families, and friends in their service journey.
Jim Bledsoe, website admin and Life Member Post 2143.

Event Schedule

Monthly Events

Barstow Veterans Day Ride

Barstow Veterans Honor Ride

Greg & Kelly Karaoke

Greg & Kelly Karaoke

Tuesday Night Karaoke

 Tuesday Night Karaoke

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Statewide News

News & Info from your department

California VFW Calls on Congress to Keep Its Promise to America’s Veterans

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of California today urged Congress to revise H.R. 9237, the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act, to protect earned disability benefits for future disabled veterans while preserving the legislation’s many positive reforms.

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VFW Department of California Elects Paula Jansen as State Commander During 106th Annual State Convention

Veterans from across California gathered in Sacramento for leadership elections, training, recognition, and more

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National News

Important info from National VFW

The VFW Enters 127th Year Continuing the Fight for Veterans

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Sept. 29 the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proudly commemorates VFW Day, marking 127 years of unwavering se...

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The VFW Remembers Our POWs and MIAs

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On this National POW/MIA Recognition Day, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) solemnly renews its sacred commitm...

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News & Events

Upcoming events

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View Local, State and National events. 

Membership

Membership Details

As yesterday's defenders of freedom...

 ...we want to welcome today's military service members into our ranks to become part of our elite group.

WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War, Kosovo, War in Afghanistan, War in Iraq, War on Global Terror and other Peace-Keeping Expeditionary Campaigns throughout the globe.

Assistance & Benefits

Assistance & Benefits

The Veterans of Foreign Wars is dedicated

 to supporting those who sacrifice so much for this country, veterans, service members in the US Armed Forces, and their families and continues to be a voice for returning and currently deployed service members and their families.

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OUR MISSION

That the purpose of this Corporation shall be fraternal, patriotic, historical, charitable, and educational: to preserve and strengthen comradeship among its members; to assist worthy comrades; to perpetuate the memory and history of our dead; and to assist their widows and orphans; to maintain true allegiance to the Government of the United States of America, and fidelity to its Constitution and laws; to foster true patriotism; to maintain and extend the institutions of American freedom, and to preserve and defend the United States from all her enemies.