About

VFW DISTRICT 1

VFW District 1, Department of Washington

HISTORy

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of Washington District 1 has a rich history dating back over seven decades. Founded On July 2, 1949, it has played a significant role in supporting and advocating for veterans in the state of Washington.

The department’s inception can be traced back to the aftermath of World War I when a group of veterans recognized the need for a collective voice to address the challenges faced by returning servicemen. They sought to provide a supportive network, fight for veterans’ rights, and honor the sacrifices made by those who served their country.

Over the years, the VFW Department of Washington District 1 has grown in size and influence. It has consistently worked towards ensuring that veterans receive the benefits and services they deserve, advocating for improved healthcare, education, and job opportunities. The district has been actively involved in legislative initiatives and has collaborated with various government agencies and community organizations to achieve its goals.

In addition to its advocacy efforts, the VFW Department of Washington District 1 has been committed to fostering camaraderie among veterans. It has organized numerous social events, fundraisers, and community service projects to bring together veterans and their families, providing a sense of belonging and support.

As the years have passed, the VFW District 1, Department of Washington has continued to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of veterans. Its dedication to serving those who have served their country remains unwavering, making a lasting impact on the lives of countless veterans in the state of Washington and Snohomish County.

VFW District 1

OUR MISSION

To foster camaraderie among United States Veterans of overseas conflicts. To serve our veterans, the military and our communities. To advocate on behalf of all veterans.

VFW District 1

OUR VISION

Ensure that veterans are respected for their service, always receive their earned entitlements, and are recognized for the sacrifices they and their loved ones have made on behalf of this great country.

VFW District 1

OUR POSTS

VFW Post 921, Snohomish
VFW Post 1040, Lynnwood
VFW Post 1561, Arlington
VFW Post 2100, Everett
VFW Post 2554, Sultan
VFW Post 7511, Monroe
VFW Post 8870, Edmonds
VFW Post 9417, Gold Bar
VFW Post 12228, Stanwood

The Team

DISTRICT OFFICERS

Carl Kurfess

District 1 Commander

Comrade Carl Kurfess is a retired U.S. Army and Army Reserve veteran with 28 years of service in Infantry and Civil Affairs. He currently serves as Post Senior Vice Commander of VFW Post 8870 in Edmonds, Washington—his third year in that role.

Prior to assuming the District Commander position, Comrade Kurfess served three years as District 1 Senior Vice Commander. He brings steady leadership, a strong commitment to veterans, and deep experience at both the Post and District levels to his new role.

chris cote

District 1 Sr. Vice Commander

Comrade Cote is the current Post Commander for VFW Post 921 in Snohomish, WA. This is his second year as Post Commander. Comrade Cote previously served as an All State and All American Post Quartermaster for Post 921. Comrade Cote is a retired U.S. Naval Aviator.

Joseph chartier

District 1 Jr. Vice Commander

Comrade Chartier is the current Post Commander of VFW Post 12228 in Stanwood, WA. He also serves as a District 1 Jr. Vice Commander and as a Department of Washington Trustee. Comrade Chartier has been actively involved in building and strengthening the Stanwood Post since its institution.

steven smith

District 1 Quartermaster

Comrade Smith currently serves as District 1 Quartermaster and as Quartermaster of VFW Post 1561 in Arlington, WA. A retired U.S. Navy veteran, he provides essential financial stewardship and support to both his Post and the District.

John Beam

District 1 Adjutant & Chief of Staff

Comrade Beam is a Past Department of Washington Commander as well as a Past District 1 Commander. Comrade Beam has been a member of the VFW for 40+ years. Comrade Beam is currently the Post Quartermaster for VFW Post 1040, Lynnwood, WA. Comrade Beam is retired from the U.S. Navy.

ricky andrew

Chaplain

Comrade Andrew is the current Post Chaplain for the Ward Roney Jr. VFW Post 7511, Monroe, WA. Comrade Andrew is also the current Military Order of the Cootie, Pup Tent 8, Sky Pilot. Comrade Andrew served in the United States Army.

donald wischmann

Judge Advocate

Comrade Wischmann is a Past All-American District 1 Commander and a member of VFW Post 2100 in Everett, WA. A retired U.S. Navy veteran who completed three tours in Vietnam, he has long been a dedicated leader at Post 2100, previously serving as Post Commander and Quartermaster. Comrade Wischmann remains actively involved in supporting veterans and strengthening the Post and District.

doug white

Inspector

Comrade White is a Past All-American District 1 Commander and currently serves as Post Quartermaster for VFW Post 9417 in Gold Bar, WA. He has held multiple chair positions for the Department of Washington over the years and now serves as the Department of Washington Judge Advocate. Comrade White is a retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer.

Eric English

Officer of the Day

Comrade English is a member of VFW Post 921 in Snohomish, WA, and has served in numerous key roles at both the Post and District levels. A retired U.S. Navy veteran, he continues to support District operations and the overall mission of serving veterans throughout Snohomish County.

Richard Richter

Trustee 3

Comrade Richter is a Past District 1 Commander and currently serves as Post Commander of VFW Post 1040 in Lynnwood, WA, as well as District 1 Trustee 3. A U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran, he continues to provide steady leadership and support to both his Post and the District.

Marc Gonick

Trustee 2

Comrade Gonick is a past Post Commander of VFW Post 2100 in Everett, WA, and serves as District 1 Trustee. He is a U.S. Army Veteran and has been actively involved in Post leadership, community outreach, and promoting VFW programs and membership.

Otis Wolfe

Trustee 1

Comrade Wolfe is a past District 1 Commander and a multi-time All American and All State Post Commander of VFW Post 921 in Snohomish, WA. Comrade Wolfe is retired from the U.S. Navy.

Ann Marie Bunch

Surgeon

Comrade Bunch currently serves as District 1 Surgeon and is a Past All-American Commander of VFW Post 2554 in Sultan, WA. She is a U.S. Air Force veteran.