Michele Rathke was appointed as Chief of Staff for VFW of Wisconsin, by VFW State Commander Donald Lynch on June 15.
Rathke was asked two years ago to be Lynch’s chief of Staff, when he would be elected as the VFW State Commander. Due to the distance of traveling and being away from the family, Michele stated she had to make sure her husband (John) would be OK with her accepting the position.
Each State Commander has an opportunity to appoint their Chief of Staff. Newly elected Commander Lynch, had seen the great work and leadership Michele has been a part of at the post (Merrill Post 1638), district, and state VFW levels and knew she would be a great part of Lynch’s State Officers. The position will entail an array of responsibilities for Michele, including being the primary support person for all operations within the commander’s office as well as overseeing chairpersons for 15 state VFW programs.
Rathke has been a member of Post 1638 since 2006 and has served in a variety of capacities including, Senior Vice Post Commander (2008-2010) and All-American and All- State Post Commander (2010-2012).
For two consecutive years, Michele was elected as the 7th District Commander for the VFW of Wisconsin.
She has also served as Chairperson of VFW National Home for Children since 2018 and most recently; Chairperson of Lincoln County Veterans Council.
Michele is also a retired United State Air Force (USAF) veteran, serving from 1987-2007 as a Personal
Affairs/Personnel Specialist.
“It’s been a blast serving the VFW any way I can and I look forward to my new role as State VFW Chief of staff,” she adds.
While advancing her role with the organization, Rathke vows to continue her commitment to supporting local veterans and families.