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VFW Post 1503 in Dale City, known as the General Lewis B. “Chesty” Puller Post, has been named Virginia’s National Community Service Post Award recipient for 2024–2025. This honor recognizes the post’s outstanding service to veterans and the broader community over the past year. 

According to a memorandum from the VFW National Programs Office, the award is based on a post’s “total impact,” which includes volunteer hours, mileage, and financial contributions toward community service efforts. Post 1503 stood out for its extensive outreach, including school supply drives for local elementary schools, support for youth sports, and assistance to veterans filing benefit claims.

The post also hosted events such as the Department of Virginia’s 3rd Annual VFW Riders Rally and multiple VFW Day of Service projects. Notably, Post 1503 partnered with Mr. Handyman to provide home improvement services to a veteran family in need.

As part of the award, Post 1503 will receive a commemorative street sign and be featured in an upcoming issue of VFW Magazine. The post, which is the largest VFW post in the world, continues to embody the VFW’s mission of “Veterans helping veterans” through its dedicated community service. 

 

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Tim Demeria [Photo: Mike Beaty]
The Manassas City Council engaged in a contentious debate over tax relief programs for veterans and elderly residents. The discussions centered on financial sustainability, rising costs, and concerns over perceived inequities in the system.

Veteran Tax Relief Sparks Heated Debate

During the March 17 meeting, comments from Commissioner of the Revenue Tim Demeria ignited strong reactions from residents and veterans. Demeria raised concerns about the increasing cost of tax exemptions for 100% disabled veterans, pointing out that some beneficiaries own high-value homes and luxury vehicles. His remarks led to backlash from veterans, including Zach Murphy, who viewed them as dismissive of their service and sacrifices.

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As Stafford County prepares its budget for the upcoming fiscal year, officials and citizens alike are raising concerns over the mounting financial burden of a state-mandated tax exemption for disabled veterans. The issue, discussed at the March 4, 2025, Stafford County Board of Supervisors meeting, has sparked debate over the program's sustainability and impact on county taxpayers.

Mayausky: "A Worthy Program, But an Unfunded Mandate"
Stafford County Commissioner of Revenue Scott Mayausky detailed the rapid growth of the veteran tax relief program, which has significantly expanded since its inception in 2011.

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From delivering meals to providing emotional support, Simply Angels Veterans Outreach has become a vital resource for hundreds of veterans living with disabilities in Virginia. Simply Angels Veterans Outreach, a nonprofit organization that supports disabled and homebound veterans, has been serving six Virginia counties for nearly 40 years.

Founded by veteran Susan Purks, the group began when she helped a severely burned veteran regain his passion for life. Over time, Purks expanded her efforts to assist other disabled veterans, focusing on career plans tailored to their physical and emotional needs.

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Bethea [Submitted photo]
Hire Heroes USA, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans and military spouses in their transition to meaningful civilian employment, is leaving a significant mark on communities like Woodbridge.

The organization provides free, comprehensive assistance beyond securing a job through tailored programs and services, offering veterans and military spouses the tools and guidance needed to thrive in their new careers.

Since its inception, Hire Heroes USA has celebrated over 100,000 job placements and confirmed hires—a testament to its transformative impact. "Each hire is more than a statistic—it represents a life change, a family stabilized, and a community strengthened. This is the heart of our mission," said Ross Dickman, the organization’s CEO.

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The American Legion Post 10 is hosting its annual Veterans Day ceremony in the City of Manassas Saturday (tomorrow) at the Harris Pavilion.

The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, but attendees should be seated in the pavilion by 9:30 a.m. There will be several performances this year by the following:

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Fredericksburg will host its annual Veteran's Day procession on Monday, November 11 at 10 a.m. The walk will begin at Memorial Park (also known as Kenmore Park) on Kenmore Avenue and end at the Fredericksburg Area War Memorial on George Street.

The procession will travel down Washington Avenue from Mary Ball Street to George Street, ending around 10:30. The Veteran's Day Commemoration will begin at 10:45 at the War Memorial. Streets will not be closed for the procession, but a rolling police escort will accompany the walkers.

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On Friday, November 1, at 1 p.m., Manassas Park City held its annual Veterans Flag Ceremony outside City Hall, paying tribute to the men and women serving in the United States Armed Forces. Led by the Manassas Park Honor Guard, the event commenced with reverence and respect as the American Legion Post 10’s Color Guard presented the colors, marking the beginning of a solemn yet celebratory occasion. Interim City Manager Keith Nguyen welcomed attendees. Alisha Morka’s rendition of the national anthem followed as voices joined in unison to celebrate the freedoms the veterans fought to protect. A significant moment in the ceremony came as Commissioner Charles Ziegler, the Virginia Department of Veterans Services commissioner, took the stage. A retired Navy veteran with 31 years of service, Ziegler spoke poignantly about veterans' sacrifices and the American flag's enduring symbolism. "The American flag has been the symbol of our nation's unity, as well as a source of pride and inspiration for millions of citizens," he remarked. "Every pledge of allegiance we take, and every flag-raising we witness is a celebration, and it honors the deeper meaning of how we live our lives and what we believe." Reflecting on the origins of the Pledge of Allegiance, Ziegler emphasized the importance of patriotism and unity in today’s world, drawing a parallel to historical efforts to instill loyalty and respect for the nation. "With all the distractions that we have today, how many of us think about patriotism?" he asked the crowd. "The raising of our flag and our pledge of allegiance embodies patriotism, sacrifice, devotion, security, and loyalty." The Honor Guard formally raised the veterans flag, followed by remarks from Constantine Ferssizidis, Board Member of the Northern Virginia Veterans Association, and Josh Himan, a combat-injured Marine and Hylton High School graduate. Himan shared his personal story, highlighting his journey from civilian life to the Marine Corps and his experiences in Afghanistan, where he sustained severe injuries. He credited the support of Semper Fi & America’s Fund with helping him and his family through his recovery. "They were always with me from the very beginning," he said. "I’m proud to say that Semper Fi has grown to help all branches, supporting over 33,000 veterans across this nation." Councilmember Laura Hampton offered a local perspective, sharing stories of veterans from the Manassas area and underscoring their essential role in the community. “Veterans are the very lifeblood of a thriving and vibrant community,” Hampton stated, adding, “The best way to honor veterans' service is to speak their names, share their stories, and remember their contributions to our country.” She recounted a meeting with local veterans, including Harry Humphrey, a Vietnam veteran who served in the 293rd Engineer Battalion Transportation Company. She called it an honor to witness and share their legacy. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Nguyen, who expressed deep gratitude to all veterans present and nationwide. “As we gather here today, may we continue to honor and support those who served and remember that the freedoms we enjoy are owed to their sacrifices,” he stated. The Manassas Park Veterans Flag Ceremony poignantly reminds the city of its dedication to honoring its veterans, recognizing their contributions to national security and their integral role in the community. In Manassas Park and Prince William County, veterans make up a significant part of the population, strengthening local businesses, enriching community values, and shaping future generations with their resilience and service.

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From Stafford County Government:

In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Stafford County announced plans to illuminate the George L. Gordon, Jr., Government Center and the Stafford Armed Services Memorial green from October 24 – November 11 as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort uniting counties to support military veterans. The initiative, led by the National Association of Counties (NACo), raises awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources available at the county, state, and federal levels to assist veterans and their families.

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Press Release:

Sheriff Roger Harris is honored to host our 3nd annual celebration in honor of Veterans of all military branches. The event will be held on November 9, 2024, between 10am and 2pm at the Spotsylvania Public Safety Building located at 9119 Dean Ridings Lane, Spotsylvania, Virginia 22553. Please join us at the opening ceremony at 10 am. A variety of guest speakers will help kick off our event. There will be performances by the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon and the Kena Highlanders Pipes and Drums Team.

Multiple military equipment displays and various presentations from other military vendors will be on hand for attendees along with all military recruiter branches. This event is open to the public and we hope you and your family can join us to honor our military veterans.

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