A Proud Tradition
Truly a VFW-inspired holiday, Loyalty Day was created by the organization in 1921. In 1955, VFW Post 3 member and U.S. Rep. Jimmy Van Zandt of Pennsylvania introduced a bill proclaiming May 1 as Loyalty Day—a time to proclaim patriotism and love of country. To celebrate this special day, plan a worthy program, and report to the State Chairman to receive credit for participation in the program. Post and District Commanders should appoint a Loyalty Day Program Chairman. The Post with the most outstanding Loyalty Day Program will be recognized at the State Convention.
Suggested Activities:
• Hold a public ceremony such as the re dedication of a local memorial or stage a community program at a park or auditorium. Remember our men and women currently serving on active duty and in the National Guard and Reserve. Present citations, which can be ordered from VFW Emblem and Supply or produced locally, to all participants.
• Conduct a Loyalty Day poster contest in local elementary schools grades K – 6th.
• Invite recently naturalized citizens to participate in your Loyalty Day program.
• Request a Loyalty Day proclamation from the mayor or select officials.
* Post Chairman should attend School Board and PTA meetings, get into the elementary school classrooms in order to educate the students, parents, and teachers about Loyalty Day. The Loyalty Day Speech included in the Post C of A packets is a good education tool.
Planning Your Loyalty Day Program
The earlier you start working on your program, the better. Here’s a brief timeline to help you avoid unforeseen problems.
January
• Locate a site for your community program.
• Create a file with all necessary planning folders.
• Schedule speakers for your program. Don’t forget your Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen and your Post’s National Citizenship Education Teacher Award winners as possible speakers.
February
• Order Loyalty Day products from VFW Emblem and Supply Department
• Meet with merchants, civic leaders and clergy to invite their participation in your program.
March
• Request a signed proclamation from your mayor or city council.
• Contact local elementary schools and propose a Loyalty Day poster contest for students. At the same time, coordinate a date to collect contest entries.
• Order citations for all poster contest participants. Select an appropriate award for the winner.
April
• Send out invitations to VIPs, such as local city government officials and prominent veterans or citizens.
• Place VFW Loyalty Day promotional material in prominent community locations.
• At least one week in advance of your ceremony, send out news releases to media.
Contact our Loyalty Day Chairman for more information:
Paula Baldwin
Phone: 337-424-1379
