On October 24, 2026, the VFW National Home gathered for its Annual Meeting, a time to reflect on our mission, celebrate the dedication of those who serve, and welcome new leadership to our Board of Trustees.
This year, we were proud to induct Jodie Hollinger as Board President, Bill Miles as District 5 Trustee, Kyna Simpson as District 8 Trustee, and Jim Payne as District 4 Interim Trustee.
While each brings unique experiences, talents, and perspectives to the Board, they all share something that lies at the very heart of the VFW National Home: a passion for serving veterans and their families and a commitment to ensuring that those who have sacrificed for our country have a place to turn when they need it most.
Jodie Hollinger – Board President
Representing District 3 (Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, and New Jersey), Jodie Hollinger brings years of VFW Auxiliary leadership, a passion for helping young people, and a deep commitment to the National Home’s mission to her new role as Board President.
Jodie joined VFW Auxiliary 5956 in 2009 under the eligibility of her father, Wayne Bretz, a Vietnam veteran. She became a Life Member of the VFW National Home in 2012 and has continued to dedicate her time and talents to supporting veterans and their families.
Currently serving as the Pennsylvania VFW Auxiliary Department Secretary-Treasurer, Jodie has held numerous leadership positions at the Auxiliary, District, and National levels. Her passion for youth has been especially evident throughout her service. From involving children in sending care packages and cards to deployed service members to championing literacy initiatives that brought thousands of books to schools and libraries, Jodie understands the importance of investing in the next generation.
As Board President, Jodie brings not only valuable leadership experience but also a genuine heart for families and children. Her dedication to service and belief in the power of community will help guide the National Home as we continue building brighter futures for veteran families.
Bill Miles – District 5 Trustee
Representing District 5 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Latin America/Caribbean), Bill Miles brings 28 years of United States Army service, extensive VFW leadership experience, and a personal connection to the National Home’s mission.
For Bill, that connection began with one family.
While helping a young Afghanistan veteran and her two children relocate from Georgia to the VFW National Home, Bill witnessed firsthand the difference that stability, encouragement, and the right resources can make. He watched as that mother worked toward independence, achieved academic success, and eventually purchased a home of her own.
That experience left a lasting impression and strengthened his determination to help more veteran families discover the opportunities available at the National Home.
Following his military career, which included time in the Wounded Warrior Program, Bill continued his service through the VFW, earning numerous leadership distinctions, including All-American and All-State honors and recognition as the 2020 Service Officer of the Year.
As District 5 Trustee, Bill hopes to increase awareness of the National Home and encourage others to become involved in its mission. His story is a powerful reminder that behind every family we serve is a journey of resilience, hope, and the opportunity for a new beginning.
Kyna Simpson – District 8 Trustee
Representing District 8 (Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Kentucky), Kyna Simpson brings a unique combination of military experience, educational leadership, and a passion for advocating for veteran families.
Kyna retired from the United States Navy in 2019 after 24 years of active and reserve service, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Since joining the VFW in 2018, she has taken on numerous leadership roles, always looking for opportunities to make a meaningful difference.
Since 2023, Kyna has served as the Illinois National Home Department Chair, helping strengthen the connection between Illinois and the National Home. Through this role, she has developed a deep appreciation for how the National Home continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of veterans and their families.
As a retired public-school teacher who now operates a home-based school for young children, Kyna also understands the importance of education, emotional well-being, and a supportive environment in helping children thrive.
Her passion extends beyond providing immediate assistance. She believes in helping families build the skills, confidence, and resources needed for long-term success. As District 8 Trustee, Kyna looks forward to spreading awareness of the National Home’s programs and ensuring more veterans and their families know that help, hope, and opportunity are available.
Jim Payne – District 4 Interim Trustee
Representing District 4 (Maryland, Delaware, North Carolina, and Virginia), Jim Payne brings more than three decades of VFW membership, nonprofit leadership, and a lifelong dedication to serving others.
A VFW Life Member since 1993 and a Life and Centennial Member of the VFW National Home, Jim has spent years supporting veterans, service members, and their families through leadership, education, and advocacy.
With a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, Jim brings extensive experience in strategic planning, organizational development, and nonprofit governance. Throughout his VFW career, he has served in numerous leadership positions, including Post Commander, Post Adjutant, and District Adjutant. He currently serves as the North Carolina Department Student Veterans of America Chair, helping veterans pursue educational opportunities and build successful futures.
Jim’s commitment to the National Home is rooted in his belief that its mission must remain strong for generations to come. He understands that the work being done today has the potential to change the lives of veteran families long into the future.
As District 4 Interim Trustee, Jim is eager to use his experience and passion for service to help ensure the National Home remains a place of hope, stability, and opportunity for every family who walks through our doors.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Jerry Blake
As we welcome new leadership, we also want to take a moment to recognize and thank Jerry Blake, who concludes his six-year term representing District 8 on the VFW National Home Board of Trustees. During his time on the Board, Jerry served as Board President for the 2024–2025 year, providing leadership, guidance, and an unwavering commitment to our mission. But to those of us at the National Home, Jerry has become so much more than a trustee, he has become family. His genuine care for our staff, our families, and the work we do has left a lasting impression on all of us. Jerry, thank you for the countless hours, dedication, laughter, and heart you’ve poured into the National Home. While your time on the Board may be coming to an end, you’ll always have a special place in our National Home family. We are incredibly grateful for everything you’ve done to help make our mission stronger!
Leading with Purpose, Serving with Heart
For more than a century, the VFW National Home has been a place where veterans and their families can find stability, support, and a community that believes in them. That mission would not be possible without the dedication of individuals who give their time, talents, and hearts to helping others.
Our Board of Trustees plays an important role in protecting that mission, guiding our future, and ensuring we continue meeting the evolving needs of military and veteran families.
As we welcome Jodie as Board President, and Bill, Kyna, and Jim into their new leadership roles, we are reminded that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off or a leadership term concludes. It continues through the lives we touch, the families we lift up, and the opportunities we create for others.
Please join us in congratulating our 2026 Board leadership! We are grateful for their willingness to serve, their belief in our mission, and their commitment to helping veterans and their families build new beginnings.
Together, we look forward to another year of making a difference, one family at a time.
Want to see more from this special day? Explore the highlights and get to know the dedicated leaders who help guide our mission!
