Shirley Wildman attends national VFW convention

Big changes are happening with the Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW and Thermopolis native Shirley Wildman has been on the front lines. Wildman serves as the 2014-2016 National District Council Member #12 representing Wyoming and North Dakota for the Ladies Auxiliary but has been involved with the VFW for at least 20 years. She attended the 102nd National Convention this past July in Pittsburgh where annual awards are presented and business council meets. 

The National convention held many highlights for Wildman including an address by President Obama, health fair, and patriotic rally with music performed by Toby Keith. Wildman was pleased to report that Wyoming represented the VFW very well by winning two first place awards in Group 2 for scholarships and veterans and family support, second place in Group 2 for membership, and a Patriotic Art winner from Gillette winning $10,000 in scholarships. 

The convention wasn’t all fun and games, however. A three-year debate was settled regarding the change of the Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW to accept membership from both the female and male population. With over a 100-year history, this a difficult change for some members; but with support from the comrades the change to Auxiliary to the VFW was approved and will start accepting male members August 22nd of this year. 

“I think it’s a good change,” said Wildman, “That population was not allowed to be a part of an organization and they’re proud of their spouse or father or grandfather for having served our country. And that’s one of the things about the convention that is so really awesome. It’s the patriotism and the stories.” 

A change that has been in the making for three years, the change in policy literally took an act of congress. Wildman and other members are excited for their male counterparts to become involved and be a part of the auxiliary; and starting later this month, they will be able to. Any person with a spouse or family member who served in a foreign war can show their support by joining the Auxiliary to the VFW. 

“It is fun. Once you get involved with the programs and the veterans, you’re hooked.”