THE END IS NEAR! But, so is the BEGINNING!
With the conclusion of the June Washington State VFW Convention in Spokane, my tenure as your post commander will end.
I could not be prouder of what our post was accomplished during these past two years as we slogged our way through the worst period of the Covid pandemic.
First and foremost we were able to keep our heads above water and avoid drowning in the Covid morass, thanks in large part to the collective efforts of the post leadership and membership alike.
Despite the limitations and restrictions that come with ensuring vaccination and masking requirements were met and maintained, we continued to “move the post forward.” The post business operation did not lose a step.
- We continued with servicing the needs of veterans.
- Our award winning newsletter editor produced quality editions — some of the best in the VFW — month after month.
- We honored requests for our color and honor guard services.
- We continued our commitment to the Ballard community by participating in parades, food bank drives, community cleanup efforts, etc.
- We sponsored two new scout troops and were able to continue with our youth scholarship programs.
- With all that said, our crowning achievement was earning the “All-American” title for the first time in the history of our post. This is a big deal within the VFW community because it is one of the most prestigious honors given by our VFW organization. It is based on outstanding achievement in membership growth, programs that benefit and assist veterans, and deep community involvement. The Title of All-American signals to everyone this is a post that is in tune with it’s membership, interacts with the local community, and is committed to veterans in need.
I could not be prouder and so should you!
So, as the State Convention ends later this month, it too ushers in the beginning of our new post command staff led by Commander Aly Teeter. It will be a great leadership team!
I want to thank each and every one of you for your commitment to excellence. It has truly been my honor to serve you.
– Commander Joe F.