Putting the Mission in Motion [ANNOUNCEMENT]

I’m proud to officially announce my candidacy for State Judge Advocate of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Georgia for the 2026–2027 term.

This campaign is more than a candidacy; it’s a call to action! It is a mission to modernize, mobilize, and lead with integrity. A promise to serve our Posts, our members, and our mission with precision, transparency, and purpose.

Over the years, I’ve had the honor of serving across all levels of our great organization from the local Post to the Department level. Each role has deepened my belief that effective leadership must start with a strong legal and ethical foundation. That’s why I believe the State Judge Advocate is not just a position – it’s the first step in advancing the kind of steady, principled leadership our Department needs to move forward.

That belief is the driving force behind this campaign and its guiding theme: Mission in Motion.

Mission in Motion Flywheel graphic - communication, commitment, camaraderie, community, and culture

Why Mission in Motion?

Because leadership should never be static. It should evolve, adapt, and take action. Whether we’re supporting our veterans, educating new leaders, or growing our Posts, we must stay mission-focused and future-ready.

The campaign centers around 5 guiding principles, The 5 C’s:

  • Communication: Building transparent, respectful, and timely channels across every level of leadership.
  • Commitment: Following through on promises and putting the needs of veterans and Posts above politics or personal agendas.
  • Camaraderie: Strengthening bonds between members, across generations, and with our Auxiliary and community partners.
  • Community: Expanding our reach and relevance in the neighborhoods we call home.
  • Culture: Fostering a VFW environment that is professional, welcoming, and forward-thinking.

These 5 C’s aren’t just values, for they are action points for how we lead, serve, and strengthen our Department together.

Why State Judge Advocate?

The State Judge Advocate plays a vital role in maintaining order, interpreting our governing documents (i.e. bylaws), and helping Posts stay compliant and informed. It’s the steady hand that ensures our mission is rooted in fairness and integrity.

For me, this is also the foundation of a broader leadership journey, a mission to strengthen how we train, support, and inspire our VFW leaders statewide. It’s the first building block in a long-term vision of organizational excellence and meaningful mentorship.

With over 25 years of experience in strategy and development, and a proven track record of service at all levels of our great organization, I bring the experience and energy this role demands.

What You Can Expect from This Campaign

This website isn’t just about one election. Instead, it’s about building resources and creating value. Throughout this campaign, you’ll find:

  • Articles and leadership tools based on the 5 C’s
  • Training guides for Post- and District-level success
  • Campaign updates and road reports
  • Opportunities to engage, offer feedback, and contribute ideas

This is a campaign built on collaboration, not just consultation. Your voice matters, and I want to hear it.

Let’s Take the First Step, Together

Every journey starts with a single step, and this campaign starts with a commitment: to put the mission in motion through disciplined service, transparent leadership, and unwavering accountability.

If you believe in moving the VFW forward, I ask for your support. Let’s build momentum, one VFW Post, one leader, one mission at a time.

Follow the campaign. Stay engaged. And help keep the Mission in Motion.

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Disclaimer: This views, opinions, and content presented in this article, herein, are those of Dwayne Kilbourne and do not specifically represent the official positions, endorsements, or policies of the Veterans of Foreign Wars at the Post, District, Department, or National levels.