Karin Simmons was elected President of AMVETS National Ladies Auxiliary in August 2022 at the New Orleans Marriott in New Orleans, Louisiana. In 1991 Karin joined AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary, Anchorage Alaska #2 and became a life member in 2001.  On the Local level, Karin held positions of Chaplain, Third Vice, Secretary and President.  On the Department level she has served as NEC and Department President for several terms.

On the National level, Karin has served on numerous committees, attended Auxiliary National Leadership Seminars in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and National Conventions. She has held the positions of National History and Scrapbook Chairman for three years, National Scholarship Chairman for two years, National Third Vice President, National Second Vice President, and National First Vice President.

Karin is married to Ramon Martinez who served as a medic in the U.S. Army.  Karin met Ray in Anchorage, Alaska and they have two daughters, Marlene, and spouse Maj. Mario Chaparro and Elizabeth Martinez.  They have 4 grandchildren, Leticia, Miranda, Emiliano, and Celestina and 5 great-grandchildren, Raylene, Javier, Mia Elena, Michael, and Camila.  Karin comes from a military family – her father served in the U. S. Navy as well as 3 uncles that served in the Navy, Air Force and Army, respectively.

Karin has worked in the Medical field since graduating from High School – retiring from Alaska Regional Hospital as an Admitting Supervisor in the Emergency Department for thirty years.  Karin and Ray both retired and relocated to Tucson, Arizona.

When she is not volunteering for AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary, Karin volunteers in her community with Neighbors Helping Neighbors chairing a free food program that she started during the pandemic and enjoys spending time with her family.

Karin’s theme is Honor.  Remember. Teach. She chose this theme to encourage everyone to honor our deployed military and first responders, Remember and reach out to our Veterans and teach our children to honor and remember.

During a National President’s visit Karin toured the Fisher House in Anchorage, Alaska and was extremely impressed with that program and has decided that this will be her President’s Project.

While National President, Karin will be traveling across the United States visiting Auxiliaries and promoting Fisher House as well as other programs AMVETS National Ladies Auxiliary supports. For further information please contact AMVETS National Ladies Auxiliary, 4647 Forbes Boulevard, Lanham, Maryland 20706 (301) 459-6255.