3rd District, Department of Illinois, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

Chicago Bridgeport Post 5079 and It's Auxillary:

On this day in 1782, the Purple Heart was established. We pause with gratitude to honor and remember all who have been awarded this medal for their sacrifice.

Thank you to all the comrades and Commanders for making this year a success. The "Mighty Third" District had a wonderful year and achieved All American District status for the 2024-25 year. I am extremely humbled to have achieved this honor on my second nonconsecutive term (2014-15; 2024-25) as your District Commander. Initially my goal that I conveyed to my outstanding and dedicated team was to reach 100% membership. Once we achieved that status, they pushed me to continue even though I was content to reach where we are today! I want to especially give a tremendous shout out to the newly elected District Commander and the newly elected Sr Vice Commander Tony Munoz IV for their dedication and wish them a successful 2025-26 year. I will be here to assist in any way that as I can as the District Chief of Staff. We also have post that have reached All American status this year:

* Rhine VFW Post 2729
Commander Charlie Johnson/Quartermaster Rich Aguinaga

* Logan-Avondale VFW Post 2978
Commander Ray Doekson/Quartermaster

* Chicago-Bridgeport VFW Post 5079
Commander Tony Munoz IV/Quartermaster Carlos Alarcon (achieved All-State status)

* PFC Ted Stempien VFW Post 8821
Commander Jonathan Cooper/Quartermaster Felix Grzelinski (achieved All-State status)

* Hometown-Murray VFW Post 9773
Commander Howard Kirby/Quartermaster Robert "Big Daddy" Kurysz.

Jonathan Cooper
Past District 3 Commander
(2014-15; 2024-25)

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Past District Commander Rich Lummen . Please keep Maureen and the entire Luemen family in your prayers during this difficult time. Rich you will be missed. Thank you for your service to this nation and your service to the Veterans of Foreign Wars! Rest easy Comrade!

-Jonathan Cooper
Third District Commander