John F. Gwizdak

Commander-in-Chief

Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

Guest Speaker, Veterans Day 2004, 2005

Biography

John F. Gwizdak of Stockbridge, GA, was elected VFW's Commander-in-Chief at the organization's 101st National Convention in Milwaukee, WI, August 25, 2000. Gwizdak is the second Georgian to hold this office.

Born in Revloc, Pennsylvania and raised in Carrolltown, Gwizdak enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1958. In 1968 he attended Officer Candidate School and was commissioned a second lieutenant. He retired in 1978 in the rank of captain.

His service career included three tours in Germany, including a rotational tour in Berlin, and in Vietnam with Co. E, 4th Bn., 12th Infantry, 199th Light Infantry Brigade. Starting out as a heavy mortar platoon leader, he eventually assumed command of Company E based at Long Binh. The unit operated out of Camp Frenzell-Jones. He held the distinction of having served in all leadership positions from squad leader to company commander of an infantry company. Also he was inducted into the United States Army Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame.

His military awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, four awards of the Bronze Star Medal (including one for Valor), Purple Heart, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with palm device, Army Commendation Medal (3), Army of Occupation Medal (Berlin), Vietnam Campaign and Service Medals, Good Conduct Medal (3), Armed Forces Reserve Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantryman's Badge, Parachutist Badge and Drill Sergeant's Badge.

Gwizdak joined the VFW in 1977. He established a distinguished record of service at the Post, District and Department levels. In 1988 he attained the status of All-American Department Commander, VFW Department of Georgia.

Recognized as a leader in veteran's affairs, Gwizdak received numerous appointments to national VFW positions and was elected to the VFW National Council of Administration in 1990, representing the Departments of Georgia and Alabama. In addition to other VFW positions he served as the Adjutant/Quartermaster, VFW Department of Georgia from December 1992 to October 1998 and presently holds that position.

He is owner and president of John F. Gwizdak, Inc., specializing in residential and commercial construction and sales, and owner and broker of Builders Realty. He holds an associate of arts degree in human resources administration from the University of the State of New York.

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