Ronald H. Schaedel, Sr. was elected to a four-year term on the VFW’s National Council of Administration on Aug. 1, 2024, at the 125th VFW National Convention in Louisville, Kentucky, representing the Department of Hawaii.

Ron served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1966 to 1993, earning his VFW eligibility by serving in Vietnam and Operation Desert Storm. His decorations include the Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (two), Navy Achievement Medal (two), National Defense Service Medal (two), Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Civic Action Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Combat Action Ribbon (two), and numerous other ribbons and badges.

He joined the VFW in 1987 at Post 999 in National City, California, later transferring to Post 10276 in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he maintains his Life membership. He has served in elected and appointed positions at the Post, District and Department levels, culminating with his election as the Department of Hawaii Commander from 2023 to 2024. On the national level, he has served on the National Bylaws, Manual of Procedure and Ritual Committee

Ron received his Bachelor of Science in education from Southern Illinois University, and his master’s in Public Administration from the Universityy of Oklahoma. Ron is retired from the City and County of Honolulu.

He is a member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), USMC CAP Units Veterans Association, Kapolei Hawaiian Civic Club, and the Na Koa O Palehua Hawaiian Warrior Men’s Club.

Ron and his wife, Homelani, reside in Kapolei, Hawaii.