The Texas VFW/GSF Disaster Response Team is developing a statewide network of trained veteran volunteers prepared to assist communities before, during, and after disasters. The program is being built around FEMA Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, giving participating veterans practical emergency-response skills.
Training includes:
GSF describes the effort as a Disaster Response Task Force, with CERT-trained veteran teams capable of deploying to disaster zones and community crises to provide relief supplies, infrastructure support, and other assistance. The organizations are working toward training and mobilizing 150 veteran CERT responders in cooperation with the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), Texas Parks & Wildlife, and the VFW.
The program has already demonstrated its capabilities. Following the historic Central Texas flooding in July 2025, GSF and VFW mobilized within 72 hours. Working through VFW Posts, volunteers delivered more than 100 tons of food, water, clothing, bedding, and search-and-rescue supplies to communities including Kerrville, Hunt, Comfort, San Saba, Marble Falls, and San Angelo.
For District 4, the Disaster Response Team provides an excellent opportunity to extend the VFW's tradition of service beyond our Posts and into the broader community. Veterans bring valuable experience in leadership, teamwork, communications, logistics, emergency preparedness, and operating under difficult conditions.
The emphasis is not simply on responding after a disaster occurs. Preparedness and training are central to the mission. District 4 Posts can help by identifying interested veterans and Auxiliary members, encouraging participation in CERT training, developing local response capabilities, and building relationships with community emergency-management organizations.
Be Prepared. Be Trained. Be the Difference.