Where did you serve and what did you do?

For this year’s VFW National Day of Service, CSM A.C. Cotton VFW Post 12209 served at the William R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Home in Temple, TX. Our veterans and volunteers came together to spend quality time with the residents—playing games, listening to their stories, and simply letting them know they’re not forgotten. We also provided refreshments and care items as a small token of appreciation for their service. It was a powerful day of connection, gratitude, and continued service to those who served before us.

How are you Still Serving?

I’m Still Serving today by showing up for my community and fellow veterans in meaningful ways. Whether it’s leading local service projects with The Mission Continues, mentoring new leaders, or organizing events through VFW Post 12209, I continue to live a life of purpose beyond the uniform. After facing my own challenges with PTSD, I found healing through service—and now I help others do the same. Service didn’t end when I took off the uniform; it just evolved.

Why do you do it?

I do it because service saved me. After the military, I struggled with PTSD and needed an outlet—a way to feel connected and purposeful again. Giving back to my community gave me that. I serve to honor those who didn’t make it home, to support those who did, and to show the next generation that healing and leadership can grow from the hardest parts of our journey. I do it because I still believe in something bigger than myself.