JOHN KEENE

Candidate for VFW Commander-in-Chief Designee 2027 - 2028

John Keene

John Keene is a dedicated veteran and leader with a vision to transform the Veterans of Foreign Wars into a modern, community-centric organization. With a background in military service, law enforcement, and real estate, John brings experience and a commitment to service that aligns with the core values of the VFW.

Biography

  • United States Marine Corps Reserve: 1985–1997
  • Eligibility: Operation Desert Storm
  • Police Officer/Paramedic: 1992–2006
  • Realtor/Managing Broker: 2006–Present
  • Post 1 Gold Legacy Life Member

Vision

John's vision for the VFW is to overcome outdated stereotypes and reestablish Posts as hubs of community engagement. He advocates for:

  • Recognizing VFW Posts as small businesses with professional management
  • Applying proven business skills to retain and attract members
  • Building corporate partnerships to support veteran services
  • Collaborating with nonprofits to amplify community impact

Initiatives

  • Service Office Resources
  • Fundraising Through Whiskey
  • Corporate Partnerships
  • Developing Affordable Veteran Housing
  • Legislative Advocacy:
    • FAFSA Disability Question Removed
    • Surviving Spouses Bill Introduced
    • CHAMPVA Legislative Fix
    • Automatic Claims Upon Presumption

Featured Testimonials

"John is an honest, principled, and hardworking individual who sees things through… I am proud to endorse his candidacy for Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief Designee.”
John J. Holland, National Chaplain 2011–2012
"He leads with humility, vision, and a servant’s heart… I can think of no better individual to lead this next chapter.”
Todd Youngblood, Board Member, Pneuma Gladius & The Invictus Fund
"A results-driven leader who forges public-private partnerships and expands impact for veterans… integrity, communication, and trust set him apart.”
Stephanie Muckey, Strategy Advancement Advisor, Veterans (Humana)

Additional Endorsements

"John Keene’s dedication to our country and our veterans is exemplary… his commitment to reform for disabled veterans and surviving spouses sets him apart.” — Ryan Shuman, former Congressional Policy Advisor

"Mr. Keene displays all the qualities of a superior leader… trustworthy, receptive, and tireless in improving our organization.” — John Clifford Davis III, Adjutant/Quartermaster, VFW Post 5231

Contact John

Email: John@VFWPost1.org

Phone: 303-547-7578

Website: keene4vfw.com

Facebook: facebook.com/JohnKeene
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/candidatekeene

© 2025 John Keene | Candidate for VFW Commander-in-Chief Designee