Exciting news from the VFW National Home: On October 25, 2025, new trustees were installed for Districts 1 and 2. Congratulations to Michael Raymond (District 1) and Judith Barnes (District 2), who will serve on the Board of Trustees from 2025 to 2031!
Michael Raymond, a Gold Legacy Life Member of Needham Post 2498, brings decades of leadership and dedication to veterans. An All-American Department Commander and seasoned recruiter, Michael has held numerous key roles at local, state, and national levels, earning countless accolades for his commitment. He’s also a dedicated supporter of the National Home, raising thousands of dollars and sponsoring critical initiatives to support veterans and their families. A Persian Gulf War and Korea Defense veteran, Michael served in the US Army JAG Corps, earning multiple commendations and volunteering as a Chaplain’s Assistant.
Currently, he serves as Director of Veterans Services in Mansfield, MA, and remains active in several veterans organizations throughout New England. Beyond his military and VFW work, Michael advocates for accessibility, serves on local commissions, and is an ordained minister. Michael will represent District 1, covering Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.
Judith Barnes, a Life Member of the VFW Auxiliary since 1987, proudly honors her family’s service legacy and is active with Fowler-Dix-Park Auxiliary 5095 in East Hampton, CT. Judy has held leadership roles at every level—from Department President to National District Council Member and program chair—always championing veterans and their families.
Currently, she manages the Department Auxiliary Website, leads as District 6 President, and supports veterans at Rocky Hill Hospital. With a background in IT, Judy brings analytical skills to every project she tackles. Since retiring, Judy volunteers tirelessly—from Stand Downs and fundraisers to her 40-year commitment at the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs Skilled Nursing Home. She understands the impact of small acts of kindness on veterans and their families and is dedicated to making a difference. Judy is excited to help the VFW National Home grow, bringing her energy and passion for service to new projects and transformations. Judy represents District 2, which includes New York, Vermont, Connecticut, and Europe.
We’re excited to welcome two new trustees to our board—and to announce Sandi Kriebel as our new Board of Trustees President. Sandi succeeds Jerry Blake (District 8: IL, IN, MO, KY), who will remain on the board through October 2026.
Sandi Kriebel has been a dedicated member of Yingling-Ridgely Auxiliary No. 7472 in Ellicott City, Maryland, since she was 12. In 1962, she joined the Jr. Girls Unit and began volunteering at the VA Medical Center in Perry Point, even helping care for a Spanish American War Veteran. At 16, Sandi became a full auxiliary member thanks to her father, Martin J. Conner, a decorated U.S. Army veteran of World War II and Korea.
Throughout her life, Sandi has held many leadership roles at the Auxiliary, District, and Department levels. She led the VFW Auxiliary Jr. Girls Unit for over 35 years and served as Department President in 1996-97, National Council Member, and National Ambassador. Sandi was the VFW Auxiliary National President in 2018-19 and served on the National Home Board of Trustees. She now represents the Auxiliary as the National VAVS Representative and is a life member of several veterans’ organizations.
Sandi has been retired since 2012. She previously worked as an Executive Administrator for a financial firm and later as a Craft Care Specialist, helping veterans at Baltimore VA facilities. Since 2021, Sandi has represented District 4 (MD, DE, NC, VA) on the VFW National Home Board of Trustees. Sandi lives with her husband Paul. She has three children—including a son who served in the Persian Gulf War—seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
We’re thrilled to welcome Michael and Judy to the VFW National Home Board, and welcome Sandi as our 2025-2026 Board of Trustees President. We’re confident they’ll make a lasting impact for veterans and their families.
To see more pictures of our 2025 Annual Meeting, follow the link here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCyJFA
To learn more about our Board of Trustees click here: Leadership & Board – VFW National Home
