The nominations period for the DA France Veterans and Military Families Caucus has now concluded. Thank you to everyone who has expressed an interest in supporting our efforts DA France Veterans and Military Families Caucus.
All members of DAF Veterans Caucus may vote in the Election. Due to restrictions imposed by the coronavirus, all voting will take place via online ballot until the close of voting on March 15, 2021 at the Caucus Election and Meeting. Join the meeting if you wish to hear from the candidates prior to casting your ballot. RSVP here.
New members are welcome to vote — tell a friend! New members should join DA and the Veterans and Military Families Caucus by March 14th to vote. To join DA go to: www.democratsabroad.org/join. Then join the Global Veterans and Military Families Caucus, here: http://www.democratsabroad.org/vmf You must be a US citizen 18 years of age or older by Nov. 2, 2021.
Questions or need help? Email the VMF Election Board at [email protected]
CO-CHAIR CANDIDATE
MARIE LOUISE FERGUSON
I am running for Co-Chair of the Democrats Abroad France Veterans and Military Family (VMF) Caucus because, as an Army retiree, I am passionate about the military, veterans and their families. When I joined the Army as a wayward college student, I did not imagine the character-building journey and global adventure that awaited me. While my time in uniform challenged me in expected and often unexpected ways, twenty years later, I look back with an extreme fondness. I am proud of my service to my fellow Soldiers, the Army and United States.
It would be an honor to Co-Chair the VMF caucus and if elected, I will be a tireless advocate for veterans and their families. During my medical retirement process, I was extremely fortunate that the DoD and VA ensured I was well cared for as I transitioned out of the military. I know not every veteran is as fortunate, so I want to help ensure that we, as Democrats and Americans, prioritize taking care of the veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much to take care of us all. It is imperative that veterans have a voice to engage leaders at every level. I would like to be a voice that helps amplify the concerns of our veteran community.
Thank you!
CO-CHAIR CANDIDATE
ANNA MARIE MATTSON
I am the Interim Chair of DA France Veterans & Military Caucus and would appreciate your vote for Co-Chair. I am passionate about our work whether it be: organizing events to support wounded warriors and caregivers at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany; coordinating participation in Memorial Day Ceremonies at US cemeteries throughout France; advocating and crafting resolutions to make sure our voice is heard loud and clear; and fostering and nurturing partnerships with other veterans organizations. Since 2006 DA France members have been participating in these Remembrance and Compassion events.
In the future and with your help, I would like to organize more opportunities for us to bond together, improve the communication channels and continue to bring our issues to the forefront of DA and the Democratic Party. In addition, to support Veterans who run for elections stateside.
My credentials as a military family abound: my father and four uncles fought in WWII, my cousin was on a Navy ship during the Viet Nam War, two great uncles fought in France during WWI besides some ancestors who fought in the Civil War and the Revolution. So I grew up listening to the stories and witnessing their pain over lost comrades and their experiences.
Thank you!