“We don’t just preserve tradition; we live it, honor it, and grow it. Our legacy is only as strong as the leaders we grow and the voices we empower.”
Dwayne Kilbourne is a proud Marine Corps veteran, lifelong patriot, and a passionate advocate for veterans’ rights and representation. With a proven record of service in both military and VFW leadership roles, Dwayne has dedicated himself to strengthening our organization one Post, one comrade, and one mission at a time.
From serving as a District Commander and Department Chief of Staff to leading strategic initiatives in digital marketing and communications, Dwayne brings both boots-on-the-ground experience and a forward-thinking mindset to every leadership opportunity. His “Mission in Motion” campaign isn’t just a slogan, it’s a call to action rooted in Communication, Commitment, Camaraderie, Community, and Culture.
As a candidate for VFW Department of Georgia State Judge Advocate (2026–2027), Dwayne offers not only legal acumen and organizational knowledge but also the energy, innovation, and integrity to help lead Georgia’s VFW into a stronger future.
Whether mentoring new members, crafting bylaws that work, or hosting fireside chats for young leaders, Dwayne leads with heart, mission, and momentum.
I spent eight years in the United States Marine Corps Reserves (2000 to 2008) - 6.5 years in the Active Reserve and about 1.5 years in the Inactive Ready Reserve (IRR). In 2003, my unit (C Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division) was mobilized and deployed to Kuwait and Iraq in direct support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
I have been so fortunate to have the honor to serve veterans and family members in many different ways through the VFW Mission. From leading with distinction as a Post Commander and District Commander, to leading various committees and projects throughout all levels of the VFW, the experiences have readied me to be your next State Judge Advocate. Check out my VFW Service Record Book (SRB) for a more thorough listing of experiences.
While attending high school in Clio, Michigan, I participated in the Voice of Democracy program on three occasions. After two attempts that resulted in being the runner up, I was honored to represent the Gordon R Bennett VFW Post 1452 as its first place winner in 1997-1998.
During my service in the Marine Corps, I was often tasked with responsibilities beyond my primary Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). These experiences required me to quickly adapt and overcome, an essential trait that continues to guide my approach to leadership within the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Disclaimer:
This website is maintained by and for the campaign of Dwayne Kilbourne, Candidate for 2026-2027 State Judge Advocate of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of Georgia. The views, opinions, and content presented herein are those of the campaign and do not represent the official positions, endorsements, or policies of the Veterans of Foreign Wars at the Post, District, Department, or National levels.
