Elected Line Officers
Leigh Palmer serves as Post Commander of VFW Post 12228 in Stanwood, Washington. Having previously served as Senior Vice Commander, she is committed to building upon the Post's renewed foundation while strengthening veteran outreach, community engagement, and membership involvement.
Her leadership emphasizes maintaining a welcoming, active, and inclusive environment where eligible veterans of every generation feel respected, supported, and connected with their fellow comrades. Through community outreach, veteran recognition programs, and local partnerships, Leigh strives to ensure that Post 12228 remains a meaningful resource for veterans and their families throughout the Stanwood–Camano community.
Mari Bingham serves as Senior Vice Commander of VFW Post 12228 in Stanwood, Washington. She is committed to supporting the Post Commander, strengthening membership, and helping the organization continue growing as an active and welcoming community for veterans.
Believing that the future of the VFW depends on engaging the next generation of veterans while honoring those who came before, Mari emphasizes camaraderie, inclusion, and continued service. Guided by the shared commitment of those who have worn the uniform, she strives to ensure that all eligible veterans feel valued, connected, and supported in receiving the recognition, resources, and benefits they have earned through their military service.
Joe Chartier serves as Quartermaster of VFW Post 12228 in Stanwood, Washington, following his tenure as Post Commander, during which he helped reestablish the Post and lay the foundation for its continued growth.
In his current role, Joe is committed to responsible financial stewardship, transparency, and accountability, working closely with the Post Adjutant to maintain accurate administrative and financial records. He remains dedicated to encouraging volunteerism, honoring veterans who continue to serve or reside in care facilities, and recognizing the sacrifices made by military families.
Joe believes the VFW is founded upon equality, shared sacrifice, and the principle of veterans helping veterans. Through his continued service, he strives to strengthen the Post's operations while supporting its mission of serving veterans, their families, and the surrounding community.
Michael Faddis serves as Junior Vice Commander of VFW Post 12228 in Stanwood, Washington, having previously served as the Post's Quartermaster. He is committed to supporting the Post Commander and Senior Vice Commander while strengthening community outreach, veteran engagement, and the Post's continued growth.
Michael emphasizes responsible leadership, adherence to the VFW Charter and Bylaws, and fostering an inclusive environment where all eligible veterans feel welcomed and respected. He is particularly passionate about supporting veterans living with invisible disabilities, ensuring that their experiences and challenges are recognized and that they feel heard, valued, and supported by their fellow comrades.
Through community partnerships, outreach initiatives, and continued service, Michael strives to strengthen the Post's presence in the Stanwood–Camano community while advancing its mission of veterans helping veterans.
Appointed Officers
Reverend John Snow serves as Post Adjutant of VFW Post 12228 in Stanwood, Washington. A medically retired United States Navy veteran with over 13 years of service, John brings experience in military leadership, organizational administration, and community service to his role.
As Adjutant, he oversees the Post's official correspondence, meeting records, and administrative operations, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and organizational continuity. He is particularly committed to modernizing the Post's digital infrastructure, improving communication with members, and ensuring that institutional records remain accessible and properly maintained for future leadership.
Beyond the VFW, John holds a bachelor's degree in History and is pursuing a Law Degree at Seattle University School of Law. He also serves as a volunteer chaplain within the Washington State correctional system and leads a nonprofit religious organization dedicated to education, spiritual care, and community outreach. He is trained in safeTALK and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST).
Reverend John Swanson serves as Post Chaplain of VFW Post 12228 in Stanwood, Washington. In this role, he is dedicated to supporting the spiritual and emotional well-being of fellow veterans and their families, offering compassion, encouragement, and fellowship during times of hardship, loss, and remembrance.
Trained in safeTALK and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), John recognizes the importance of veteran mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and ensuring that no comrade feels forgotten or alone.
Beyond his chaplaincy duties, John has contributed to community service initiatives, including efforts to restore and improve the local veterans memorial at Legion Park. Through his continued involvement, he strives to strengthen camaraderie, honor those who served, and ensure that VFW Post 12228 remains a place of compassion, mutual support, and service to the community.
