VFW Elects Cory Geisler as National Commander

RENO, Nev. - Cory L. Geisler of Hartland, Wisconsin, was elected today as commander-in-chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) during the organization's 127th National Convention at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center.

Geisler's election as the VFW's 118th commander-in-chief came before thousands of delegates representing approximately 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary gathered to elect national leadership and establish the organization's legislative priorities for the coming year.

A Life member of VFW Post 721 in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Geisler served in the United States Army from 2005 to 2012, earning his VFW eligibility through combat service in Iraq. He succeeds Carol Whitmore as the organization's commander-in-chief and will serve as its chief advocate before Congress, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the American people.

In his acceptance address, Geisler called on every member of the VFW to embrace a common purpose centered on his national theme: "One Team. One Mission. Veterans First."

"These six words are more than a motto," Geisler said. "They are a commitment. They remind us that regardless of our differences, we are united by a single purpose. That is to serve veterans, their families and our communities."

Geisler reminded delegates that the VFW's power is more than the brick and mortar of its establishments,

"The strength of the VFW has never come from its buildings or its canteens," Geisler said. "It has always come from its members."

Drawing on lessons learned during military service, Geisler emphasized that teamwork remains the foundation of the VFW's success.

"During our military service, success depended on trusting one another. We learned that no one accomplishes the mission alone," Geisler said. "That lesson did not end when we took off the uniform. It lives on in every VFW Post, every District, every Department and every National program."

He challenged members to keep veterans at the center of every decision the organization makes.

"When we plan programs, Veterans First. When we recruit new members, Veterans First. When we advocate for legislation, Veterans First. When we support military families, Veterans First," Geisler said. "If we remain faithful to that principle, we will never lose sight of why this organization exists."

Geisler also called on members to prioritize the physical and mental well-being of veterans, encouraging comrades to support one another through fellowship and meaningful connections.

"Sometimes the greatest act of service is simply checking in on a fellow comrade, inviting them to a meeting, sharing a cup of coffee or taking the time to listen," Geisler said.

Looking toward the future, Geisler stressed the importance of membership growth and developing the next generation of VFW leaders.

"Membership is important, not simply because numbers matter, but because every new member brings new experiences, new ideas and new opportunities to serve," Geisler said. "The veterans returning from today's conflicts are looking for connection. They are looking for purpose, motivation and direction. The VFW has everything they are searching for, but they need to know we are here."

He encouraged every VFW member to take personal responsibility for recruiting eligible veterans and mentoring future leaders, noting that leadership is measured not by rank or title but by a willingness to serve others.

Geisler then reaffirmed the enduring mission that has guided the VFW since its founding 127 years ago.

"Our service does not end with military service. It simply takes on a new form," Geisler said. "Together we preserve our traditions. Together we advocate for veterans. Together we strengthen our communities. Together we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Together we build an even stronger Veterans of Foreign Wars."

Geisler concluded by urging members to "lead with integrity, serve with humility, support one another and welcome the next generation," reminding delegates that "if we remain united in purpose, there is no challenge we cannot overcome and no goal we cannot achieve."

Geisler closed with an emphasis on the words he intends to define his year as commander-in-chief.

"One Team. Working together in a spirit of service and respect. One Mission. Supporting veterans, their families and our communities with honor and dedication. Veterans First. Always."

Before his election as commander-in-chief, Geisler served as VFW senior vice commander-in-chief and Department of Wisconsin commander. He has also held numerous leadership positions at the Post, District and national levels since joining the VFW in 2008.

Geisler and his wife, Beth, and daughter, Laura, reside in Hartland, Wisconsin.

In addition to Geisler, delegates elected Glenn R. Umberger Jr. of Pennsylvania as senior vice commander-in-chief and Bobby Lovergne, of Louisiana as junior vice commander-in-chief. Adjutant General Dan West and Quartermaster General Marc Garduno also reassumed their national offices.

Watch or read Geisler's acceptance speech.