{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"An Unconventional Convention","description":"In this dynamic episode of #StillServing, host Rob Couture is joined by Mike Figlioli, Gabby Kubinyi, Ryan Gallucci, and Brittany Dymond Murray to break down a truly historic VFW National Convention in Columbus, Ohio, the organization\u2019s birthplace. From the logistics of setting the stage and running the Claims Clinic to the long hours of delegate business, the team offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how convention comes together. The conversation dives into the emotional impact of the Afghanistan War Commission, where veterans courageously shared personal experiences, frustrations, and lessons learned from America\u2019s longest war. They also explore the power of member-driven decision-making, including contested floor votes and a spirited debate over tradition and change. The episode crescendos with the landmark election of Carol Whitmore as the VFW\u2019s first female Commander-in-Chief, setting a new chapter in the organization\u2019s history. From healing conversations to historic milestones, this episode captures the heart of the VFW\u2019s mission \u2014 proving that the voice of every veteran matters, and that together, they are still leading, still advancing, and still serving. Featured Guests: - Mike Figlioli \u2013 Director, VFW National Veteran Service - Gabby Kubinyi \u2013 Associate Director, Grassroots Advocacy, VFW Washington Office - Ryan Gallucci \u2013 Executive Director, VFW Washington Office - Brittany Dymond Murray \u2013 Associate Director, VFW Public Affairs & Strategic Outreach Episode Highlights: 0:00 Intro and Roll Call 2:35 Setting up Convention \u2013 Behind the scenes in Columbus 6:25 Claims Clinic and Health Fair \u2013 Direct support for veterans 10:02 Fall Legislative Conference Training preview 12:42 Brittany\u2019s reflections on Convention 14:17 Afghanistan War Commission \u2013 Emotional stories and lessons learned 31:52 Resolutions and Nominations \u2013 Key business and delegate decisions 38:12 VFW Riders become an official subsidiary group 41:47 Baseball cap approved for VFW meetings 45:34 Unique floor vote for National Commander 57:34 Gabby\u2019s first convention back with the VFW 1:00:42 Election of first female Commander-in-Chief, Carol Whitmore 1:09:55 Awards Banquet 1:12:25 Special Change of Command Ceremony 1:13:40 Ask the VFW \u2013 New Q&A segment launches 1:23:19 The Good of the Order \u2013 Closing reflections 1:28:38 Meeting a VFW Founder\u2019s great-grandchild For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: VFW Convention Highlights Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text \u201cNEEDS\u201d to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today\u2019s VFW \u2014 Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero \u2014 Text HERO to 71777 to donate online ","author_name":"#StillServing: The VFW Podcast","author_url":"http:\/\/thevfwpodcast.libsyn.com\/website","html":"