In a moment that highlights both continuity and progress within the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Tony Dobbins has been elected to serve as the new Chairman of the VFW Southern Conference. Delegates from across the region gathered in Montgomery, Texas, on November 8, 2025, to select the next slate of regional leaders and to chart the future of veteran support across the southern United States. With his election, Dobbins begins a two-year term guiding one of the most active and influential divisions within the national organization.
Who is Tony Dobbins
Throughout his many years in the VFW, Dobbins has been a consistent advocate for those who served. His leadership record stretches across numerous roles and responsibilities, each marked by a focus on organizational excellence and member-centered service. During the 2018 to 2019 membership year, he served as State Commander for the VFW Department of Georgia. His performance in that role earned him recognition as a Triple Crown All-American Recipient. At the time of the presentation of the award, he became only the fourth individual in Georgia VFW history to receive that distinction.
Following his successful year as State Commander, Dobbins continued to serve the organization in a variety of capacities. He has been Vice Chairman of the VFW National Legislative Committee and currently serves as the State Adjutant for the Georgia VFW. Before his recent election, he held the position of Southern Conference Vice Chairman, a role that helped prepare him for the work now ahead.
Regional Influence, Shared Mission
The Southern Conference represents VFW Departments across a broad geographic area that stretches from the Atlantic coast to the central United States. The region includes Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. Together, these Departments support millions of veterans, service members, and families who rely on the VFW for guidance, camaraderie, and advocacy.
The Conference exists to strengthen the work of each Department, promote shared initiatives, and advance the national mission of the VFW. Dobbins enters the chairmanship prepared to strengthen collaboration across state lines and ensure that member states remain connected and engaged. He has emphasized that teamwork, communication, and transparency will serve as cornerstones of his approach.
In his remarks following the election, Dobbins expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to lead. He also outlined a vision that prioritizes stronger outreach efforts, improved communication tools, and continued growth in membership support. One of his major goals involves expanding the Southern Conference’s digital footprint to help Departments share their programs more effectively and reach more veterans.
Modernizing Engagement, Strengthening Partnerships
The Southern Conference has long been known for its strong performance in membership, community impact, and legislative advocacy. Dobbins intends to build on that success by helping the region adopt modern engagement strategies that appeal to veterans of all generations. His focus on digital communication is rooted in the belief that online visibility has become essential for recruitment, program awareness, and relationship building.
In addition to communication improvements, Dobbins has identified the development of strategic partnerships as a priority. By working closely with community organizations, veteran service providers, nonprofits, and local businesses, the Southern Conference can expand its reach and support more programs centered on mental health, community service, youth involvement, and veteran well-being.
New Officers Join the Southern Conference Leadership Team
Dobbins will work alongside a committed team of newly elected Southern Conference officers who bring varied experience and regional representation. The new officers include Vice Chairman Eric Dudash of Alabama, Secretary and Treasurer David Moske of West Virginia, Chaplain Andrew Sockett of West Virginia, and Immediate Past Chairman Victor Letourneaut of North Carolina. Together, this leadership group brings a unified commitment to strengthening veteran support efforts across the South.
A Historic Moment for Georgia VFW and Auxiliary Leadership
This election cycle also brought a unique milestone for the State of Georgia. Dawn Lemay, a Past Department President of the Georgia VFW Auxiliary, was selected to serve as the Southern Conference Auxiliary President for the upcoming year. This marks the first time in the history of the Southern Conference that both the VFW Chairman and the Auxiliary President come from the State of Georgia during the same term.
This shared achievement highlights the continued strength of the Georgia VFW and its Auxiliary, reflecting a level of engagement and leadership development that is gaining national recognition. It also demonstrates the commitment of Georgia members to serving veterans at every level of the organization.
Looking Ahead
As Tony Dobbins begins his term as Southern Conference Chairman, the region stands ready for a period of renewed coordination and shared purpose. The goals set forth by the new leadership team emphasize modern communication, stronger partnerships, and a commitment to programs that support veterans and their families.
State Chief of Staff – VFW Department of Georgia
Marketing & Outreach – VFW Department of Georgia