KANSAS
CITY, Mo. – The VFW is pleased to announce that renowned actor Lou Diamond
Phillips will serve as the official VFW national spokesperson.
In
addition to being an actor, director, producer and writer, Phillips is also a
veterans’ advocate. His biological father, Gerald Upchurch, was in the Navy and
Phillips was born on the Subic Bay Naval Base in the Philippines. His own name bears
military roots, as he was named after the World War II marine hero, Gunnery Sergeant
Leland 'Lou' Diamond. His stepfather, George Phillips, was also in the Navy,
serving two tours in Vietnam.
Phillips’
partnership with the VFW demonstrates his deep commitment to the veteran
community. “I’ve always been inspired by those who serve. I’m proud to be the
voice of the VFW, an organization that does tremendous work for veterans,”
Phillips said.
As the VFW national spokesperson, Phillips will appear in a series
of television and radio commercials designed to increase awareness about the
VFW’s programs and services available to veterans, service members and military
families. He will also make appearances at various VFW events.
“The VFW is excited to begin this outstanding relationship. Lou
Diamond Phillips has established himself in the entertainment industry with a
successful and varied career spanning decades. He’s a long-time supporter of
veterans, and this partnership proves his devotion to the veteran cause,” said
VFW National Commander Bill Thien.
Phillips is a Golden Globe® and Tony
Award® nominated actor who was introduced to
audiences through his portrayal of Ritchie Valens in La Bamba and then solidified his reputation through his
award-winning performance in Stand and
Deliver. Phillips can currently be seen in the award-winning film, Filly Brown, and the hit A&E series,
“Longmire,” in addition to hosting “An Officer and a Movie” on the Military
Channel.