Betty joined Fort Phoenix VFW Auxiliary No. 2892 in Fairhaven, MA, in March 1962 under the eligibility of her father, Manuel J. Furtado, a World War I Army veteran. She has been a continuous, active member for 60 years holding numerous offices in the organization including President of Fort Phoenix Auxiliary, Bristol County Council and District No. 6. Betty was honored to be named Outstanding District President in 1975-1976. She is currently Auxiliary Secretary-Treasurer and District Treasurer.

In 1987, then Department President Lena Guay appointed Betty to the office of Department Secretary.  Thirty-six years later, she still holds that office.  Upon the death of her sister, Department Treasurer and PDP Ethel Clement in January 2004, Betty was appointed to complete Ethel’s term as Dept. Treasurer. She has proudly served as Department Secretary-Treasurer for over 19 years.

Betty is truly from a VFW family. Her Dad was a charter member of Post 2892 as well as serving as Post, County Council and District Commander. Her Mom joined the Auxiliary the year after it was chartered and served as its President.  Three sisters and a niece also served as Auxiliary President.  Her sisters each served as County Council Presidents. Two sisters and her niece were District No. 6 Presidents and Department Presidents. Her husband, David, was a life member of Post 2892, a veteran of the Korean Conflict. Her middle son, David, also belongs to Post 2892, having earned the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal during Operation Uphold Democracy. Her sons, Michael and Steven, Steven’s wife, Marissa, and her daughter, Lori, are all VFW Auxiliary members. In addition, six of her grandchildren are Auxiliary members with three more waiting to join on their 16^th birthdays. Betty hopes that her children and grandchildren will carry on the family legacy.