By Harold Rodenberger
Because I’ll be at the VFW State Convention during the end of June, I’m writing this during the Summer Solstice. It seems only fitting, after going through the longest year since Vietnam, to be writing this during the longest day of the year. As when I left Vietnam about 55 years ago, I am relieved that this longest year is drawing to an end.
Thanks to all of you who have worn masks, learned to properly wash hands, and most importantly, gotten vaccinated. You have helped yourself and your fellow citizens to slow down this pandemic and slowly return to a more normal life.This pandemic caught us flatfooted but scientists learned, knowledge evolved, and we are still learning lessons.
One lesson we learned was that electronic attendance at meetings works, so starting this month, fully vaccinated members are encouraged to attend meetings in person. We will continue to offer the Zoom connection at all our meetings and members who are not vaccinated are encouraged to attend using this platform.
Another lesson learned was to reduce our food waste by operating the social dinners (third Thursdays) on a reservation basis.
If you want dinner, make a reservation. If you want to go through the line and take your dinner home, make a reservation. Reservations are easy, email [email protected], or text/call me at 206-972-2135 with your desired number of meals. Deadline is the Monday night before the Thursday Socials. Fully vaccinated are invited to dine in house. Others may go through the line and take their dinner home.
Our Service Officer, Joseph Mesa, continues to help veterans submit claims for benefits for disabilities incurred while serving their country. He can also give you information about survivor’s assistance. If you or any other veteran you know needs help getting a claim together, please contact Joseph for an appointment at 206-488-8981. Membership in the VFW is not required.
Our post and VFW Posts worldwide depend on volunteers to keep veterans and other community assistance programs alive and functioning. We need leaders and workers for mentoring new members, helping with socials, working the phone tree, distributing Buddy Poppies, visiting the VA Hospital and shut-in vets, working membership, etc., etc. As the new VFW year starts this month, and as our new officers take the lead, please help our fellow veterans (and yourself) by attending meetings and volunteering to help your post thrive.