Office of the Commander
Department of Michigan
Natale (Nat) V. Pulizzi
22198 International Ln,
Macomb, MI 48044
01 June 2026
Subject: End-of-Year Message
Fellow AMVETS, Ladies Auxiliary, Sons of AMVETS, AMVET Riders, Veterans, Families, and Friends,
As I reflect on this past year as your Department Commander, I am filled with gratitude and pride for all that we have accomplished together.
The success of our organization is not the result of one individual, but rather the collective efforts of dedicated volunteers and leaders working toward a common purpose—serving Veterans, their families, and our communities.
This year we made significant improvements to our Higgins Lake property, ensuring that it remains a valuable asset for our Members for years to come.
One of our most notable achievements was the installation of a new roof on the Higgins Lake Lodge, protecting the facility and preserving it for future generations of AMVETS Members.
In addition, we replaced the living room furniture in Cabins 1 through 6, enhancing the comfort and experience of the many Members and families who utilize these facilities each year.
We also focused on strengthening our organization through governance and modernization. Several proposed Bylaw changes will be presented at Convention to improve operations, clarify procedures, and position our Department for continued success.
These efforts were undertaken with the goal of ensuring transparency, accountability, and long-term stability.
Membership growth remains a priority throughout the year. Thanks to the hard work of our Posts, Districts, and Membership teams, we saw positive gains and welcomed new Members into our AMVETS family.
Every new Member represents another Veteran whose voice and service strengthen our organization.
I am also pleased that we successfully brought back the 50/25/25 raffle program. This initiative provides opportunities for fundraising while encouraging participation and support across the Department.
Its return demonstrates our willingness to revisit successful programs that benefit our Members and our mission.
None of these accomplishments would have been possible without strong collaboration.
Throughout the year, I worked closely with our Subordinate Organizations, District Commanders, Post Commanders, Department Officers, and Committe Chairpersons.
Together we addressed challenges, shared ideas, and focused on solutions.
While we may not always have agreed on every issue, we remained committed to the greater good of AMVETS and the Veterans we serve.
Most importantly, we continued our mission of supporting Veterans, promoting Patriotism, and serving our communities.
Whether through community events, Veterans’ assistance programs, Americanism activities, or countless hours of Volunteer service, our Members continued to demonstrate what it means to be an AMVET.
As my year as Department Commander comes to a close, I extend my sincere appreciation to every Member who contributed their time, talents, and dedication.
Thank you to our AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary, Sons of AMVETS, Riders, and all Members of the AMVETS Family for your unwavering support.
The accomplishments of this year belong to all of us.
While there is always more work to be done, I am confident that the Department is stronger today because of your commitment and leadership.
Thank you for the privilege and honor of serving as your Department Commander.
May we continue to move forward together, united in our mission and dedicated to those who have served our nation.
God bless our Veterans, God bless AMVETS, and God bless the United States of America.
Respectfully,
Nat Pulizzi
Commander
AMVETS Department of Michigan 2025-2026
