As we head into August, we’ve officially entered that time of year when we all start saying, “It’s just too hot!”
After a stretch of 90-plus-degree days, it’s definitely time to embrace summer—whether that means hitting the golf course, jumping in the pool, firing up the BBQ or just soaking in the sunshine.
One fun way to enjoy a summer evening is by joining us for Bingo Night at the VFW Post on Thursday, August 7, at 6 p.m. It’s a great way to beat the heat, relax and connect with the community.
This week, I’d like to share some important updates that could benefit many veterans—especially those who aren’t members of veteran’s organizations like the VFW and may not be aware of everything available to them.
Legislative Win for Transitioning Veterans: We're proud to report that one of the VFW’s top legislative priorities, the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Promotion Act – H.R. 1845, has been included in Section 551 of the House draft of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026.
This would ensure that all transitioning service members have access to VA-accredited representatives—including those from counties, states and Veterans Service Organizations like the VFW. We urge Congress to keep this vital provision in the final version of the NDAA.
2025 VA Healthcare Summit Highlights: VFW staff attended the VA 2025 Healthcare Summit in Washington, D.C., where important updates were shared regarding the future of veteran care.
Key focuses included: Improving mental health services, Expanding telehealth access, using digital tools and AI to better serve veterans, especially in rural or underserved areas, and reducing wait times and streamlining the claims process
VFW National Legislative Associate Director Meggan Coleman said it best:
“We were thrilled to learn about innovative approaches to address the unique challenges VA faces in delivering timely, high-quality health care across the nation.”
Temporary Expanded Burial Benefit: In line with the Dole Act, the VA has announced a temporary expansion of burial benefits for certain veterans. Those discharged from VA medical or nursing care to VA-provided home hospice, who pass away between July 1, 2025, and October 1, 2026, may now qualify for a full burial allowance.
This closes a long-standing gap that left many families without adequate support. It also allows veterans to spend their final days at home, surrounded by loved ones, without added financial stress.
On a personal note, my father-in-law was on hospice before he passed. Being home with family and friends brought him great comfort—and I know many families will benefit from this compassionate change.
If you or someone you know could use help navigating any of these benefits, please don’t hesitate to reach out. That’s what the VFW is here for.
Stay cool, enjoy the rest of your summer—and we hope to see you at Bingo!
This week I would like to honor a Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient. His name is David Charles Dolby, nicknamed “Mad Dog”. Born May 14, 1946.
Dolby joined the Army from Philadelphia at age 18, and by May 21, 1966, was serving in the Republic of Vietnam as a specialist four with Company B, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile).
On that day, his platoon came under heavy fire which killed six soldiers and wounded a number of others, including the platoon leader. Throughout the ensuing four-hour battle, Dolby led his platoon in its defense, organized the extraction of the wounded and directed artillery fire despite close-range attacks from enemy snipers and automatic weapons.
He single-handedly attacked the hostile positions and silenced three machine guns, allowing a friendly force to execute a flank attack.
Dolby was subsequently promoted to sergeant and awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the battle.[2] The medal was formally presented to him by President Lyndon B. Johnson on September 28, 1967.
In addition to the 1965–66 tour in which he earned the Medal of Honor, Dolby did four more tours in Vietnam. In 1967 he served there with the 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, in 1969 with C Company (Ranger), 75th Infantry (Airborne), First Field Force Vietnam, in 1970 as an Adviser to the Vietnamese Rangers, and in 1971 as an Adviser to the Royal Cambodian Army.[5]
He left the Army that same year with the rank of staff sergeant. Dolby died at age 64 on the morning of August 6, 2010, while visiting Spirit Lake, Idaho, for a veterans' gathering. Dolby died in his sleep and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Keep all who served our country in your prayers along with those still serving. God Bless America.
Marc Farmilette, PDC – VFW Post 1545 Commander
David C. Dolby
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