The Shadow
Monday, September 14, 2026, marks the 112th anniversary of the VFW Auxiliary—112 years of serving veterans and their families, and 112 years of celebrating veterans’ holidays and bringing honor to veterans and their families.
The VFW Post 1033 Auxiliary works hard to bring attention to veterans in veterans’ hospitals, nursing homes, and to individuals during special veterans’ holidays. We send cards and coloring pages to let them know that they are never forgotten.
Some Key Historical Milestones of This Great Organization
September 14, 1914: The organization was founded as the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW during the first National Encampment in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with Margaret Armstrong named as the first National President.
1920: The organization was awarded its permanent national charter, backdated to 1914, and adopted its official constitution and bylaws.
1925: State and regional Department charters were issued for the first time, helping to structure and expand nationwide grassroots efforts.
July 20, 2015: Delegates voted at the 116th VFW National Convention in Pittsburgh to amend the bylaws, extending membership eligibility to male spouses and relatives and officially changing the name to the VFW Auxiliary.
Joining the VFW Auxiliary (Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary) offers a meaningful way to honor family members who served overseas while providing a wide range of personal, community, and financial benefits. There are ten programs within the Auxiliary, making it easy to choose the one that best fits you.
Please reach out to Marian Paxton at 843-653-6098 or email her at marianpaxton@gmail.com to become a part of the VFW Post 1033 Auxiliary.
We honor our first National President, Margaret Armstrong, who started paving the road for the many members who would follow in her footsteps. This year, we honor the 2026–2027 National President, Donna K. Mills.
We also honor Department of Virginia President Kathy Voss, who has played a large role in the success of the VFW Post 1033 Auxiliary. Please join us for our reception prior to our meeting on December 17, 2026, to meet President Voss.
Happy 112th Birthday to the VFW Auxiliary!
