History – Page 2 – Ballard Eagleson Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3063

Last World War II Post 3063 member passes away

On Thursday, January 18, 2024, VFW Post 3063 Comrade and our last World War II veteran, Edward “Ed” Roy Westing passed away at age 97 in Seattle. Ed was born June 19, 1926 in New York, NY to Carl and Anna (Brünges) Westing.

He was a WWII veteran, serving in the Army Air Force where he was stationed in the Pacific with the 20th Air Force. Ed graduated with a business degree from Johns Hopkins University in 1972 and worked at Westinghouse in Baltimore, Maryland as a technical writer for more than 20 years. He was passionate about chess, receiving a meritorious service award from the U.S. Chess Federation in 2019. For many years Ed wrote a chess column for the Jeffersonian Newspaper in Towson, Maryland, and was the longtime president of the Towson Chess Club and member of the Maryland Chess Association. Ed was also known for his love of movies and his impressive book collection. He relocated to Seattle in 2016 to be close to his daughter and enjoyed frequent visits to the Seattle Swedish Club and the National Nordic Museum. He was preceded in death by his wife, Judith, of 35 years. He is survived by his daughter Karen, son-in-law Chintan, and extended family and friends.

Lt Eagleson’s gravesite found at Wreaths Across America event

On Wreaths Across America Day Dec. 16, the post co-sponsored the Lake View Cemetery WAA event with the Seattle Sons of the American Revolution by providing an honor guard and guest speaker. Comrade Commander Aly Teeter spoke about the significance of the day and our post’s connection to the cemetery, which is our namesake, Lt James Eagleson. Lt Eagleson’s gravestone hadn’t been tracked down by the organizers but our commander managed to find it on the southern border of the cemetery.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered, from post members, to the Navigator Scouts, and friends who currently serve. It was a memorable and beautiful morning for honoring our fallen veterans.

The Navigation Case author presents at post meeting

Thank you to author John Happ for coming to our business meeting on Dec. 7 – Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day – to discuss his book about his father’s service in World War II. We all learned more about World War II operations in New Guinea, the toll it took on aviators and the importance of documenting our own personal histories. You can find his book, The Navigation Case, on Amazon.

Post honors Comrade Rodenberger on Veterans Day

What an incredible day — Veterans Day — for Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s Open House and Flagpole Dedication! Despite stormy beginnings, the weather cleared just in time for a moving plaque unveiling and flagpole dedication in honor of Harold Rodenberger.

Special thanks to State Representative Julia Reed for attending, expressing heartfelt gratitude to our veterans, and sharing her family’s inspiring legacy of service. Also big shout-out to Senator Murray’s staff member, Joe Najmolhoda, for not only reading a letter from the senator but also offering invaluable VA casework expertise.

Emme Seattle brought their A-game with delicious brews, providing the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations among friends, family, and our community.

The Washington National Guard’s 181 BSB static display captivated everyone, offering a unique glimpse into military life. The soldiers were awesome at engaging passers who were in the neighborhood.

Kids got creative with button-making, and attendees immersed themselves in informative displays, gaining a deeper understanding of our veterans’ experiences.

A heartfelt thank you to Comrade Dave Tyner for sharing a poignant poem, reminding us of the power of words to connect us all.

The media coverage from KOMO and King5 amplified the impact of our event, spreading the spirit of gratitude and celebration for our veterans.

To everyone who joined us, contributed, and participated—THANK YOU! Your presence and support made this day truly special. Let’s continue to honor and appreciate our veterans every day.