Category: Commentary

As I write my final newsletter commentary as Commander of Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063, I find myself both grateful and hopeful. Thanks to the work of the UW Foster MBA team, I believe we’re standing at the edge of a turning point.

Over the past quarter, this group of six veteran MBA candidates worked closely with our Post to understand what’s working, what’s not, and where we can go from here. Their findings confirmed what many of us have felt: the Post has heart, history, and potential, but without deliberate action, we risk stagnation and failure.

Now is the time to seize the moment.

The recommendations we received weren’t abstract theory. They were grounded in the voices of our members: young and old, new and longtime. They told us we need to modernize our outreach, reimagine our events, and foster a stronger leadership pipeline. Most of all, they reminded us that we cannot wait for “someone else” to do the work. That someone is each of us.

We need members to step up. That doesn’t mean signing up for full-time roles or burning yourself out. It means saying yes…yes to helping organize a single event, yes to mentoring a new member, yes to attending a meeting, or simply bringing a friend. Small actions build momentum, and momentum builds community.

As I pass the torch to Comrade Harold Hamilton, I do so with immense pride in what we’ve done and with great expectations for what’s ahead. Our Post doesn’t need to be what it was in 1965 or 1985. It needs to be what our members and community need it to be today.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve. I look forward to standing alongside you in the next chapter, not as your Commander, but as your comrade.

In comradeship,
Commander Alyson Teeter

Comrades,

As my term as Commander comes to a close, I want to express my deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve this Post and our veteran community.

We’ve shared moments of impact, connection, and reflection, but I would be remiss if I didn’t also speak from the heart. One of the biggest challenges we continue to face is the need for more hands, more voices, and more members stepping into the work that sustains our mission. This is not a critique: it’s a call. A reminder that the strength of this Post is not in one leader, but in all of us.

Leadership isn’t always about titles, it’s about showing up. Whether it’s helping with events, mentoring younger vets, or simply attending meetings, every action matters.

As I step aside, I’m hopeful that a new wave of energy and engagement will rise. Thank you again for the privilege of serving you. I’m not going far and I’ll be cheering for this team every step of the way.

In comradeship,
Commander Alyson Teeter

As we near the end of the 2024–2025 term, I want to sincerely thank each of you who has contributed your time and energy to help Post 3063 grow and thrive. Your involvement—big or small—makes a real difference.

I encourage every member to stay engaged and find ways to support our Post’s activities. Even a small contribution of time can have a meaningful impact. Without continued volunteer support, the strength and future of our Post are at risk.

Looking ahead, I’m honored to serve as Quartermaster for the 2025–2026 term. I’m hopeful for a year filled with new energy, enthusiastic participation, and shared progress. Together, we can set and achieve meaningful goals for our community and fellow veterans.

Thank you again for your dedication and comradeship. Let’s keep the momentum going strong into the year ahead.

Quartermaster Joseph Mesa

Comrades,

VFW Post 3063 is a volunteer-led organization, and to keep it functioning, we need members to step up and serve in leadership roles. Our 2025-2026 officer nominations begin this month, and we are looking for strong leaders to help guide our post into the future.

The following elected positions will be open for nominations at the March and April business meetings:

Commander
As the Commander, you will serve as the face of our post, leading meetings, coordinating activities, and ensuring we continue to fulfill our mission of supporting veterans and our community. You’ll work closely with fellow officers, committees, and members to set priorities, advocate for veterans, and grow our post. This is a team effort, and you won’t do it alone!

Senior Vice Commander
The Sr. Vice Commander is the Commander’s right-hand leader, assisting in running the post and stepping in when the Commander is absent. This role is a great fit for someone who wants to be more involved in post operations and prepare for potential future leadership as Commander. You’ll help oversee membership growth, post events, and member engagement.

Junior Vice Commander
The Jr. Vice Commander plays an important role in supporting post operations, assisting with events, and standing ready to step up when needed. If you’re passionate about youth activities, such as the essay program, this is a great way to make an impact while preparing for greater leadership responsibilities in the future.

Quartermaster
The Quartermaster serves as the post’s financial officer, handling budgets, expenses, and financial reporting. This role ensures that our post remains financially stable, transparent, and compliant with VFW regulations. It’s a critical position for someone with attention to detail and a commitment to keeping our post running smoothly.

3-Year Trustee
Our Trustees provide oversight of post finances, ensuring transparency and accountability. This is a great role for someone who wants to contribute to the post’s success but may not have time for a full-time leadership role. The 3-Year Trustee serves as part of a rotating team, working with other Trustees and the Quartermaster to review financial records and operations.

Why Step Up?
We have made incredible strides in recent years, from strengthening our finances to launching a strategic plan that will guide our future. But for this momentum to continue, we need more members to share the load. Leadership at Post 3063 is about working together as a team, ensuring that the post continues to be a home for veterans today and for generations to come.

If you’re interested in helping shape the future of Post 3063, please talk to me or Quartermaster Joseph Mesa. We’re happy to answer any questions and help find the best role for you.

The strength of our post depends on all of us. Now is the time to step up and serve!

In comradeship,
Commander Alyson Teeter

Comrades,

As we start the new year, I’d like to remind everyone of a few important updates and opportunities to engage with our post.

First, we’ll hold a swearing-in ceremony during the Feb. 6 business meeting. If you haven’t participated in one since joining, please come—it’s a meaningful tradition that connects us to our shared mission.

Looking ahead, officer nominations for 2025-2026 begin in March. As a volunteer-led organization, our strength lies in the dedication of our members. If you’re interested in stepping up to help share the workload and make running the post more of a team effort, please talk to me or Quartermaster Joseph Mesa. We need more hands to ensure our legacy remains strong.

Finally, as part of our redevelopment exploration, we’ve hired a consultant to help guide us through the process. One thing is becoming clear: the future of our post depends on the strength and engagement of our membership. That’s why I’m asking you to join us for a members-only social on Feb. 20, where we’ll discuss our challenges and identify potential solutions. Your input is critical as we plan the path forward.

Save the Date! We’re gearing up for our Vietnam Veterans Recognition Social on March 15. This is a meaningful opportunity to show our appreciation and give our Vietnam-era comrades the recognition they deserve. Let’s make this a team effort—volunteers are key to ensuring this event is a success. Sign up to volunteer here! 

Let’s work together to ensure a vibrant and sustainable future for VFW Post 3063. I hope to see you at these upcoming events!

In comradeship,
Aly Teeter, Commander