Category: NEWS – All Entries

Posted on

Veterans Day – November 11th

Commander’s Message
Veterans Day
11 November 2025

Fellow AMVETS, Ladies Auxiliary, Sons of AMVETS, AMVET Riders, Veterans, Families, and Friends,

On this coming Veterans Day, we will pause to honor the brave men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation. Their courage, sacrifice, and devotion to duty have preserved the freedoms we enjoy every day. From the battlefields of the past to the missions of today, our Veterans have stood as guardians of liberty and defenders of peace.

Let us also recognize the families who stand behind our heroes, their strength and support are an inseparable part of our nation’s story.

As AMVETS, we remain steadfast in our mission to serve Veterans and our communities. Let this day renew our commitment to one another, to never forget those who served, and to ensure every Veteran is treated with dignity, respect, and gratitude.

May we honor their service not only with our words, but through our actions—today and every day.

Yours in Service,
Nat Pulizzi
Commander, AMVETS

Posted on

Thank You, For Your Unwavering Support

Commander’s Message

Dear AMVETS, Ladies Auxiliary, Sons of AMVETS, AMVET Riders, Veterans All and First Responders.

On behalf of AMVETS, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Mr. Frank Torre, PuroClean PuroVet Program for his generous financial contribution in support of a new roof for our Lodge at Higgins Lake. His commitment to helping Veterans and improving our facilities ensures that this special place remains a welcoming retreat for those who have served our nation.

We also wish to express sincere appreciation to Mr. Jacob Paisley, Craftsman Exteriors for providing a significant discount on the roofing project. Your dedication to supporting Veterans through your craftsmanship and generosity truly embodies the spirit of community and service that AMVETS stands for.

Together, your contributions make a lasting difference, preserving our Lodge for future generations of Veterans and their families to enjoy.

Thank you, for your Unwavering Support and Patriotism.

Nat Pulizzi
Commander, AMVETS Department of Michigan 2025-2026

Posted on

Take Action Alert

Urgent alert from:
Michael W. Roof, CVA
Director, Grand Traverse County Veterans’ Affairs

Urgent Concerns Over CVSF Grant Reductions and Elimination of Veteran Outreach Funding

As President of the Michigan Association of County Veteran Counselors (MACVC), I am writing to express our deep concern regarding the recent changes to the County Veteran Service Fund (CVSF) Grant, particularly the elimination of allowable expenditures related to veteran outreach.

For years, outreach programs have served as a vital connection between veterans and the essential services they have earned—ranging from healthcare and housing assistance to mental health support and benefits navigation. The recent decision by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) to restrict allowable expenses under the CVSF Grant to only salaries, onboarding, office rental, and IT/equipment undermines the very purpose of this funding.

This change, introduced quietly through boilerplate language in the FY26 budget, drastically reduces counties’ ability to reach veterans. In Grand Traverse County alone, the change represents a $62,000 cut. In Leelanau County, the impact is nearly $54,000. These cuts are even more severe in larger counties that rely on these funds for veteran-focused outreach, benefit fairs, advertising, and direct financial assistance.

To add further strain, earlier this year the MVAA “clawed back” nearly $3.8 million from counties under the pretense of a grant “recalculation.” This unexpected move forced counties to cancel critical contracts for outreach and support services, jeopardizing the stability of programs that veterans depend on.

We strongly urge immediate attention to the following:
Continue reading “Take Action Alert”

Posted on

2025 Fall Conference / October 17th-19th

Commander’s Message

As summer draws to a close, I want to thank each of you for the work you continue to do in service to Veterans, their families, and our communities.

The fall season brings with it not only reflection on our shared mission but also important opportunities to strengthen our organization and ensure compliance with our Bylaws.

In accordance with the newly adopted rules, every Post is required to send a minimum of two representatives to our Fall Conference, October 17–19, at the DoubleTree in Grand Rapids.

Your active participation is essential for maintaining the strength and integrity of AMVETS, as well as ensuring that all voices are heard in the decision-making process.

I look forward to seeing each of you there as we continue our commitment to Veterans and uphold the standards of our organization. Together, we can carry our mission forward with unity and purpose.

Yours in service,
Nat Pulizzi
Department Commander, AMVETS

Posted on

PuroVet – A Pathway To Success

Letter from the Commander
AMVETS Department of Michigan

Dear Veteran,

As Commander of AMVETS, I have the privilege of seeing firsthand the strength, determination, and leadership that our Veteran community brings to every challenge. Those same qualities that made you successful in service can now help you succeed in business.

That’s why I am proud to support the PuroVet Program, an initiative created by PuroClean and championed by Vice Chairman Frank Torre to help Veterans like you become successful business owners.

PuroVet offers:

 
The property restoration industry is a $210 billion market, and PuroVet is opening the door for Veterans to claim their share. This program isn’t just about building businesses—it’s about building legacies and empowering Veterans to thrive in civilian life.

If you are ready for your next mission, I encourage you to explore the PuroVet Program and see how it can help you achieve financial independence, community impact, and long-term success.

Together, we can continue to serve—this time by building futures.

With pride and respect,
Natale “Nat” Pulizzi

Posted on

Commander’s Labor Day Message – 2025

Office of the Commander
Department of Michigan
Natale (Nat) V. Pulizzi

25 August 2025

COMMANDER’S LABOR DAY MESSAGE

Fellow AMVETS, Ladies Auxiliary, Sons of AMVETS, AMVET Riders, Veterans, Families, and Friends,

This Labor Day, we pause to honor the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices of the American worker. From the factories and fields to the offices and shops, it is the strength of our workforce that continues to build and sustain this great nation.

Just as our uniform service was rooted in duty and perseverance, so too is the spirit of Labor Day—celebrating the dignity of work and the contributions of all who labor to keep America strong.

As Veterans, we understand the value of commitment, teamwork, and service. Let us take this day not only to enjoy well-earned rest with family and friends but also to reflect on the freedoms and opportunities we are blessed with.

May we stand united in our mission of service to Veterans, our communities, and our country, knowing that the same values that carried us through our military service guide us still today.

On behalf of AMVETS, I wish you a safe, meaningful, and restful Labor Day.

Yours in Service,
Nat Pulizzi
Commander, AMVETS

Posted on

Commander’s Message – 7 July 2025

Commander’s Message
7 July 2025

Dear AMVETS, Ladies Auxiliary, Sons of AMVETS, AMVET Riders, Veterans All and First Responders

As we continue our mission of service, let us remember what unites us—our shared commitment to country, community, and one another. We are bound by a deep sense of patriotism and the legacy of selfless service that defines the American Veteran. Whether in uniform or as volunteers in our hometowns, we continue to answer the call.

Each of you plays a vital role in keeping our AMVETS family strong and our communities resilient. I encourage you to stay engaged, support one another, and remain visible in the neighborhoods we serve. Your presence matters.

I also want to remind you that we have a beautiful Lodge and Cabins available for rent. These facilities are not only a source of pride, they are also a space for fellowship, rest, and connection with nature. Whether you’re planning a gathering, a weekend retreat, or a family outing, I hope you’ll consider making use of these special places.

Thank you for your continued dedication and patriotism. Together, we honor the past, serve the present, and build a stronger future.

Yours in service,
Nat Pulizzi
Commander, AMVETS

Posted on

Commander’s 4th of July Message

Commander’s Message

AMVETS, Ladies Auxiliary, Sons and Riders

As we approach this Independence Day, we take a moment to reflect on the profound significance of this holiday, and I express my sincere gratitude for your unwavering dedication to our mission.

July 4th commemorates the birth of our nation – a day when courageous individuals declared their commitment to the ideals of liberty, justice, and self-governance. It’s a time to remember the sacrifices made by all generations since then to secure and defend these freedoms, and to reaffirm our own commitment to upholding them now and moving forward.

For the US Military, Independence Day holds a special meaning. We embody the sacrifice, and we represent the nation’s commitment to protecting those freedoms, both at home and abroad. We stand as a constant guardian, ensuring the principles preserved in the Declaration of Independence apply for all.

I encourage you to take time to acknowledge and celebrate Independence Day with family and friends. Whether it’s attending a local parade, enjoying a barbecue, or simply reflecting on the freedoms we have, we hope you find a way to honor this important day.

As July 4th also places us right in the heart of summer, please remember to celebrate responsibly and prioritize safety. This holiday lends itself to several reminders –

  • Veterans and Pet Safety – Veterans and pets are particularly sensitive to the sound of loud explosions. Please be mindful and respectful of those around you and the impact of what may be celebratory to you, can be triggering for someone else.
  • Fireworks Safety – watch your surroundings, be aware of windy and/or dry conditions, keep kids and pets in a safe area and have a source of water nearby
  • Heat and Pool Safety – stay hydrated, wear proper UV protection, always have an adult present when kids are swimming
  • Driving Safety – only drive if you are sober, are well rested, and use hands-free technology when using mobile devices

I wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy, and meaningful Independence Day. Thank you for your service and your commitment to defending the values that make up our nation great.

Committed to Excellence!
Nat Pulizzi, Commander
Department of Michigan

Posted on

VETT Act Becomes Law & Other Wins in the 118th Congress

Update from the AMVETS Legislation Action Center
12/18/2024

Good morning,

As the legislative year comes to an end, we wanted to give you an update on all of the incredible victories we’ve achieved during the 118th Congress.

The VSO Equal Tax Treatment (VETT) Act became public law on December 12, 2024. After over six years and three Congresses, all AMVETS posts may now receive tax-deductible charitable gifts. The American Legion and other Congressionally-chartered 501(c)(19) veteran organizations are also now able to receive these tax deductible funds and donations.

Your members of Congress have seen your communications and listened to your calls for accountability firsthand. This bill became law because of your hard work and passion for our nation’s veterans.

Your engagement makes things happen on Capitol Hill that impact veterans across the country. Because of your efforts, several of our other supported bills have also gone beyond introduction this Congress. These bills and their statuses can be found listed below:

Continue reading “VETT Act Becomes Law & Other Wins in the 118th Congress”