Support, and American Resolve
Federal Tax Changes: Strengthening Support for Those Who Stood Guard
The federal landscape for 2026 brings several adjustments designed to ease the tax burden while preserving the tax-free status of key
veteran benefits. These measures reflect the nation's patriotic dedication to ensuring that veterans —our guardians of liberty—receive the
respect and resources they deserve.
e VA Disability Compensation and COLA Increase: Effective December 1, 2025 (with payments reflected in 2026), the Department of Veterans Affairs has implemented a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for disability compensation. This tax-free boost helps offset rising costs, with monthly rates starting at $180.42 for a 10% disability rating and reaching up to $4,671.47 for 100% disabled veterans with a spouse, child, and dependent parents. Special Monthly Compensation for severe service-connected losses ranges from $4,584.77 to $11,843.74.
e Permanent Tax Brackets and Increased Standard Deductions: Under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, the 2018 tax brackets have been made permanent, maintaining progressive rates that promote fairness. For tax year 2026, the top marginal rate of 37% applies to incomes over $640,600 for singles or $768,700 for married filing jointly. Standard deductions have risen significantly: $32,200 for married couples filing jointly, $16,100 for singles, and $24,150 for heads of household. These changes can reduce taxable income for veteran households, allowing more resources for family and community contributions.
e Enhanced Child Tax Credit: The credit increases from $2,000 to $2,200 per child, offering additional relief for veteran families raising the next generation of patriots.
e Limits on Benefit Apportionment: Starting February 9, 2026, the VA will restrict need-based apportionments of compensation, pension, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits in most cases. This change streamlines processes while protecting core benefits, ensuring that veterans retain greater control over their hard-earned support.
Texas-Specific Impacts: Building on a Foundation of No State Income Tax
Texas, true to its independent spirit and deep respect for military service, continues to lead in veteran support. With no state income
tax—a boon that aligns with American ideals of limited government and personal freedom —federal changes take center stage. However,
recent voter-approved constitutional amendments enhance property tax relief, directly benefiting disabled veterans and their families.
e Existing Property Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans: Texas offers graduated exemptions based on VA disability ratings, reducing the assessed value of a veteran's primary residence: $5,000 for 10-29%, $7,500 for 30-49%, $10,000 for 50-69%, $12,000 for 70-99%, and full exemption for 100% disabled veterans. Surviving spouses and minor children may inherit these benefits, preserving family stability.
e New Enhancements from Proposition 11: Approved by voters in November 2025, this amendment increases the general homestead exemption for disabled individuals (including veterans) from $10,000 to $60,000 of market value. This stacks with veteran-specific exemptions, potentially saving thousands annually on school district taxes and easing the financial load for those who bore the physical costs of service.
e Proposition 7: Relief for Surviving Spouses: Also passed overwhelmingly, this provides a full or partial exemption on the market value of the homestead for surviving spouses of veterans who died from service-connected conditions. It's a respectful tribute, ensuring that the families of our fallen heroes are not forgotten in their time of need.
These state provisions, combined with federal benefits, exemplify Texas' patriotic commitment to veterans, fostering communities where
service is met with gratitude and opportunity.
Practical Advice for VFW Members: Making the Most of These Changes
To fully leverage these updates, Texas veterans should:
1. Review VA benefit statements for the COLA adjustment.
2. Consult a tax professional or use IRS resources to apply increased deductions and credits.
3. Apply for property tax exemptions through your local appraisal district, providing VA documentation. 4. Stay informed via the Texas Veterans Commission or VFW resources for any further developments.
In the spirit of American resilience, these 2026 tax changes reinforce our nation's promise to support those who protected our freedoms. To the veterans of VFW Post 8555: Your service inspires us, and these policies are a small measure of our eternal thanks. Together, we uphold the ideals of liberty, equality, and honor that define our great country. For more details or assistance, reach out to your local Post or VA representative—standing united, as always.
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This January marks the 35th anniversary of Operation Desert Storm, the combat phase of the Persian Gulf War that began on January 17, 1991. Launched exactly 35 years ago today, this swift and overwhelming campaign demonstrated American leadership, military excellence, and the power of international unity in defending sovereignty and upholding the rule of law. For the veterans who served in the sands of the Middle East, Desert Storm remains a proud chapter of service, sacrifice, and success in protecting freedom against aggression.
The conflict began when Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein invaded and annexed neighboring Kuwait on August 2, 1990, seizing control of vast oil reserves and threatening regional stability. In response, the United States—under President George H.W. Bush—built a broad international coalition of 39 nations, including key Arab allies like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Syria, as well as NATO partners and former Cold War adversaries. This unprecedented alliance reflected the post-Cold War hope for a "new world order" where aggression would not go unchallenged.
The operation unfolded in two phases: Operation Desert Shield (August 1990—January 1991), the defensive buildup to protect Saudi Arabia, and Operation Desert Storm, the offensive to liberate Kuwait. On the night of January 16-17, 1991, coalition air forces launched a massive, precision-guided bombing campaign that crippled Iraqi command, air defenses, communications, and supply lines.
These historic images capture the opening salvos of the air campaign—F-15 Eagles and other advanced aircraft soaring into action, embodying technological superiority and unyielding determination:
Over five weeks, coalition aircraft flew more than 100,000 sorties, dropping 88,500 tons of bombs and achieving total air supremacy. Iraqi forces, once feared as the fourth-largest army in the world, were devastated before the ground war even began.
On February 24, 1991, the 100-hour ground offensive—Operation Desert Sabre—unleashed a lightning-fast armored thrust. Coalition forces, led by U.S. armored divisions and Marines, executed a brilliant "left hook" maneuver through the desert, outflanking and overwhelming Iraqi positions. Kuwait was liberated in days, with coalition troops advancing into southern Iraq before a cease-fire took effect on February 28.
The ground campaign produced iconic scenes of decisive victory: destroyed Iraqi tanks littering the desert and coalition armor advancing relentlessly.
The human cost was tragically high for Iraq, with tens of thousands of casualties, while coalition losses were remarkably low: the U.S. suffered 147 battle deaths and 145 non-battle deaths. This disparity underscored the effectiveness of superior planning, training, and technology.
The retreating Iraqi army set fire to hundreds of Kuwaiti oil wells, creating an environmental catastrophe and stark symbols of destruction.
Desert Storm showcased American ideals at their finest: resolute defense of allies, commitment to international law, rapid and decisive action to restore justice, and care to minimize unnecessary suffering. It proved that when free nations stand together, tyranny can be confronted and defeated efficiently.
These powerful tributes honor the Gulf War veterans who returned home to welcoming parades and a grateful nation, as well as those who continue to serve as reminders of sacrifice.
To the Desert Storm veterans of VFW Post 8555 and across our great nation: your swift victory liberated a sovereign country, restored hope in a volatile region, and reaffirmed America's role as a beacon of freedom. Thirty-five years later, your service inspires us to remain vigilant, united, and proud. We remember your valor, honor your sacrifices, and thank you for defending the principles that make our country strong.
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Jima and the Spirit of American Patriotism 2
In the annals of American military history, few ships embody the unyielding patriotism, valor, and service of our nation's finest as does the USS Lexington, CV-16—the Blue Ghost. This Essex-class aircraft carrier, commissioned on February seventeenth, nineteen forty-three, earned its haunting nickname from Japanese propaganda that repeatedly claimed her sunk, only for her to rise again, painted in blue-gray camouflage, to strike fear into the enemy. As we at VFW Post 8555 in Poth, Texas, honor the sacrifices of our veterans, let's reflect on the Lexington's extraordinary actions in February 1945 — a month of relentless combat that exemplified the courage and dedication that define military service.
The stage was set after intense strikes in the South China Sea. Leaving those waters on January twentieth, the Lexington, flagship of Task Group fifty-eight point two under Vice Admiral Marc Mitscher, hammered Formosa on the twenty-first and Okinawa again on the twenty-second. Replenished at Ulithi by February tenth, she surged forward with her task force toward the Japanese home islands. On February sixteenth and seventeenth, her aircraft roared off the deck to pulverize airfields near Tokyo, crippling enemy defenses and paving the way for one of World War Two's bloodiest battles: the invasion of lwo Jima.
February nineteenth marked D-Day for Iwo Jima. The Lexington's planes provided critical close air support from the nineteenth through the twenty-second, shielding Marines as they stormed the black volcanic sands against fortified Japanese positions. These sorties—strafing bunkers, silencing artillery, and protecting ground troops—were vital to securing the island's airfields, which became launchpads for P-fifty-one Mustangs escorting B-twenty-nines to bomb Japan. Amid kamikaze threats and fierce anti-aircraft fire, the Lexington's crew and aviators displayed unparalleled valor, downing attackers and maintaining flight operations under grueling conditions. Her efforts contributed to the capture of Iwo Jima by March, saving countless lives and hastening victory in the Pacific.
This February fury wasn't isolated; it capped a year of the Blue Ghost's legendary service—from the Marianas Turkey Shoot in June nineteen forty-four to Leyte Gulf in October, where her planes helped sink the superbattleship Musashi. Earning the Presidential Unit Citation and eleven battle stars, the Lexington symbolized American resolve. Today, moored as a museum in Corpus Christi, Texas—just a drive from Poth—she hosts ceremonies tying into VPR dates like February fifteenth, commemorating the USS Maine's sinking in eighteen ninety-eight, igniting the Spanish-American War. VFW Posts like ours can draw inspiration, organizing visits or events to honor that legacy.
The USS Lexington reminds us of the patriotism that binds veterans: selfless service, brotherhood, and triumph over adversity. At VFW Post 8555, we salute her crew and all who served. Let's keep their valor alive—attend our next meeting, support our events, and visit the Blue Ghost. Freedom isn't free; it's defended by heroes like those aboard the Lexington.
Contact us at vfwpost8555.com for more on local veteran tributes.
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District 20 is pleased to announce the 2025 winners for this year’s district 20 Voice of Democracy (VOD), Patriot’s Pen (PP), and Teacher of the Year (TA) competitions.
2025 Patriot’s Pen (PP) Winners
- Kedy Ren – Post 6012
- Lalani Tapaidor – Post 8397
- Saket Nadimpalli – Post 12041
2025 Voice of Democracy (VOD)
- Erin Martin – Post 2059
- Hailey Wilson – Post 7108
- Kiana Hampton – Post 837
2025 Teacher of the Year (TA) High School
- Amanda Aguiler – Post 4676 Grades 7–8
- Kevin Murphy – Post 2059 Grades K–6
- Sarah J. Olivera – Post 7108
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As we begin this new year, January stands as National Mentoring Month—a time dedicated to recognizing the profound power of guidance, wisdom, and shared experience. Observed throughout the month since 2002, this observance encourages all Americans to celebrate mentors, recruit new ones, and support programs that help young people and those in transition build brighter futures. For the veterans of VFW Post 8555, this month holds special meaning: the lessons of leadership, resilience, and service we learned in uniform are exactly what so many need today.
Veterans bring a unique perspective to mentoring. Years of discipline, teamwork under pressure, and commitment to something greater than oneself equip us to inspire others in powerful ways. Whether sharing career advice with a transitioning service member, helping a young student set goals, or simply offering a steady hand and listening ear, our experiences embody the American ideals of perseverance, duty, and opportunity for all.
One of the most respected voices on leadership and guidance came from General Colin Powell, a distinguished Army veteran who rose to become Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Secretary of State. He once wisely advised:
“Learn from the pros, observe them, seek them out as mentors and partners. But remember that even the pros may have leveled out in terms of their learning and skills. Sometimes even the pros can become complacent and lazy. Leadership does not emerge from blind obedience to anyone.”
General Powell's words remind us that true mentorship is active and ongoing—a commitment to lifting others while continuing to grow ourselves. His life of service exemplifies how veterans can pass on the torch of responsibility and excellence to the next generation.
Here are just a few meaningful ways Post 8555 members can get involved this January and beyond:
@ Mentor local youth starting with your own family. Grandparents should share with their children and grandchildren sharing stories of service that instill patriotism and character.
e@ Support transitioning veterans by offering guidance on resumes, interviews, networking, or navigating civilian life, drawing from resources like American Corporate Partners or MilMentor.
@ Volunteer with established programs such as the Floresville AirForce JROTC Program run by Major Morshe D. Araujo USAF (Ret). You can contact the Major at (830) 393-5370 ext. 21509 or by email:
e@ Share your own story at Post meetings or events — Johnathon would like to record and share your experiences in and out of the military that can inspire others to step forward.
These small acts of guidance reflect the enduring American spirit: that freedom and progress depend not only on defending our nation in
uniform, but on building stronger communities one relationship at a time. Mentoring honors our fallen by ensuring their sacrifices lead to a
legacy of opportunity and hope.
If you've ever mentored someone—or been mentored—consider sharing your story with the newsletter. Your experiences can encourage fellow comrades to join in this vital work.
Here are a few inspiring scenes of veterans passing on wisdom and building connections with the next generation: a F BS x ) “ x 6
LEADERSHIP IN ACTION: LESSONS FROM SERVICE
This January, let us recommit to the timeless veteran tradition of service—on and off the battlefield. By mentoring others, we continue to strengthen the fabric of our nation and uphold the ideals for which so many have fought. Thank you for your ongoing dedication, comrades. Together, we lead the way forward.
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