07/28/2026
Following the Program Awards yesterday, we recognized and celebrated our incredible Past National Presidents. Since 1914, the VFW Auxiliary has benefitted from the wisdom, guidance, leadership, mentorship and friendship of our National Presidents, starting with Margaret Armstrong of Pennsylvania, who served three terms, and tomorrow, our 2025-2026 National President Lois Callahan will join their ranks.
From left to right, front row, they are: Leanne Lemley (Iowa, 2012-13), Gwen Rankin (California, 2011-12), Cortina Barnes (Maryland, formerly D.C., 2010-11), Jan Owens (South Carolina, 2009-10), Dixie Hild (Nebraska, 2008-09), Virginia Carmen (Washington, 2007-08) and Evelyn McCune (Kansas, 2003-04).
From left to right, back row, they are: Carla Martinez (Utah, 2023-24), Jane Reape (New York, 2022-23), Dee Guillory (Virginia, 2017-18), Colette Bishop (Illinois, 2016-17), Francisca Guilford (Alaska, 2015-16), Ann Panteleakos (Connecticut, 2014-15), Armithea "Sissy" Borel (Louisiana, 2013-2014) and Diana Stout (West Virginia, 2001-02).
We also pay homage to those who could not be with us during this year's National Convention: Helen Lenehan (Colorado, 1995-96), Linda Meader (New Hampshire, 2006-07), Sandi Kriebel (Maryland, 2018-19), Sandi Messenger (Michigan, 2020-21), Jean Hamil (Florida, 2021-22), and, "the baby," Brenda Bryant (Missouri, 2024-25).
Thank you for all you've done and continue to do.
