Local VFW post commander gets top award
Even though it's been years since Karl Jones has served in the Army, this Yuma man still fights for his country and his fellow military men and women.
That's why the Veterans of Foreign Wars recently announced that Jones had earned All American status as a post commander, an honor considered to be one of the most prestigious the VFW offers.
"That came as quite a surprise," Jones said, saying how he had earlier been disappointed about not getting a certain state-level honor. "Then I get a letter in the mail telling me about this. Heck, this is even bigger!"
Jones served as post commander for VFW Post 8242 on Highway 95 from 2005 to 2006, only recently completing his term of service and turning over command to Bill Wahl.
Jones has been a member and leader with VFW for years, giving many hours to the organization. He explained where that passion comes from.
"I just believe in being with my comrades. I'm with people who served in the war, whether it was World War II or the Gulf War. This is just a place where you can be with people who've been where you've been."
The VFW's headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., reported that Jones was one of only 101 VFW post commanders around the world to be selected as
for the All American honor this year. The award is based on outstanding achievement in membership growth and participation in other VFW programs that benefit veterans and their communities.
"He was an outstanding leader," said Woodrow Lewis, who serves as the local post's quartermaster. "We're all real happy for him. He deserves it."
A highlight of Jones' time at the helm came when the post worked with the American Legion to give special holsters to Yuma-based Navy corpsmen.
"I was real proud of that," he said.
Jones also made post history when he convinced Yuma Proving Ground to donate a tank, whicht is now on display on the post's grounds.
Jones grew up in Yuma and graduated from Yuma High School in 1963. He served in the Army for 23 years, which included fighting in the Vietnam War.
After the military, Jones worked in security at YPG for 18 years, retiring this past September.
But Jones' leadership hasn't been limited to the VFW. He's also served twice as commander at American Legion Post 19, where he's been recently asked to help out by serving as past commander.
"I just want to keep our troops in everyone's minds," he said. "I want to make sure that people aren't forgetting that we've got people overseas still fighting a war for us. That's my main objective."
