CSM A.C. Cotton VFW Post 12209

06/06/2026

On June 6, 1944, D-Day marked the largest amphibious assault in history as Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy, France. For Veterans, this day is a solemn reminder of selfless service and the heavy price paid for our freedom. It exemplifies valor and unity in the face of tyranny, serving as a foundational example of courage.

Historically, D-Day was pivotal in the liberation of Western Europe and a crucial turning point in World War II, halting the horrors of the Holocaust and protecting the democratic values we cherish today. D-Day was a turning point that not only led to the liberation of France but also marked the beginning of the end for N**i Germany. It facilitated the advance of Allied forces into occupied Europe, ultimately establishing the groundwork for a democratic Europe. The principles fought for during this operation continue to inspire global movements for liberty and human rights today.

As we honor the bravery of our Veterans, let's ensure their history and sacrifice are preserved for future generations.

Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

06/05/2026

III Armored Corps Best Squad Competition 2026 has concluded.

Following five grueling days of competition, 11 teams from across III Armored Corps gathered at the Lone Star Conference Center on Fort Hood to recognize the accomplishments of the Corps' top-performing Soldiers.

Throughout the week, competitors were tested across a series of physically and mentally demanding events designed to evaluate leadership, tactical proficiency, fitness, and teamwork. During the closing ceremony, Soldiers reflected on the competition through a video recap highlighting the challenges, determination, and camaraderie displayed throughout the event before receiving awards and recognition.

The 1st and 2nd Place teams will now advance to represent III Armored Corps at the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Best Squad Competition.

Soldier of the Year:
SPC Aden Cook; 36th Engineer Brigade

NCO of the Year:
SSG Cody Merrifield; 1st Infantry Division

Best Squad of the Year:
1st Infantry Division

2nd Place:
1st Cavalry Division

3rd Place:
36th Engineer Brigade

More pictures: https://flickr.com/forthoodvi

Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars #

06/05/2026

06/02/2026

You are not alone, and you don’t have to carry this burden by yourself.

Did you know that PTSD affects about 5% of the general U.S. population, which means roughly 13 million Americans are living with this condition? Texas VFW is encouraging everyone to take this month to raise awareness, break the silence, and foster compassionate conversations about mental health.

Support our Veterans and active military members by reaching out, educating ourselves on the signs of PTSD, and sharing resources.

If you or a Veteran you know is struggling, the Veterans Crisis Line offers immediate help:
Dial **988**, then press **1**, or text **838255**.

Not all wounds are visible.

05/30/2026

Today, we gather in solemn respect and remembrance as we participate in this Honor Walk for one of our nation's heroes—a Trooper of the 1st Cavalry Division.

An Honor Walk is more than a procession. It is a final tribute, a moment to pause and recognize a life that mattered, a life that served, and a life that touched countless others along the way.

This Trooper answered the call to serve something greater than himself. He wore the uniform with pride, stood beside his fellow Soldiers, and carried forward the proud traditions of the First Team. Though his time with us was far too short, the impact he made will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Today, our thoughts are especially with his fiancée, family, friends, and fellow Troopers. No words can fully ease the pain of such a profound loss. We can only hope that in the days ahead, you find comfort in the memories you shared, strength in one another, and peace in knowing how deeply he was loved and respected.

The measure of a person's life is not found in the number of years they lived, but in the lives they touched. His legacy lives on in the bonds he forged, the love he shared, and the example he set for others.

As we stand together today, let us remember these comforting words:

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." — Psalm 34:18

May these words bring comfort to those who grieve and remind us that none of us walk through sorrow alone.

To our fallen Trooper: thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your commitment to your fellow Soldiers. Your duty is complete, but your memory will remain with us always.

Ride on, Trooper. You will forever be a part of the First Team.

First Team! Live the Legend. 🇺🇸 🐎
Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

05/29/2026

Save the date for the Fort Hood 51st Annual Retiree Appreciation Day, 18 - 19 September 2026. Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

05/27/2026

🎓 Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🎓

CSM A.C. COTTON VFW POST #12209 proudly salutes the graduates of the Class of 2026.

Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have brought you to this important milestone. As you step into the next chapter of life, continue to lead with courage, integrity, and purpose. The future belongs to those willing to work for it — and your journey is just beginning.

Whether you are heading to college, the workforce, military service, or pursuing your dreams in another path, know that your community stands proud of your accomplishments.

“Dream big, stay humble, and never forget where you came from.”

Congratulations again, graduates — The Great Place is proud of you! 🇺🇸

— CSM A.C. COTTON VFW POST #12209 Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

05/27/2026

It’s a good day to jump out of a perfectly good airplane! Join us LIVE on Instagram tomorrow, Thursday, May 28 to learn more about our upcoming historic D-Day jump and the mission behind our friends at Fox Force! 🪂🇺🇸

📍 Instagram ⎸ .force.lv
📆 Thurs., May 28, 2026
🕓 3 p.m. CDT / 4 p.m. EDT

05/26/2026

The VFW has been saying this for years and now Federal Court agrees, “undisputedly”. People can’t just call themselves consultants as a way to circumvent accreditation and charge fees. It’s illegal!

VFW applauds a landmark federal court ruling finding that unaccredited claims company Veterans Guardian violated federal law by charging veterans.