https://vfwseattle.org/categories/news/ Recent content in News on VFW Post 3063 - Seattle Hugo -- gohugo.io en-us Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:53:47 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-2026-newsletter-posted-2/ Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:53:47 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-2026-newsletter-posted-2/ Check out the May 2026 Newsletter here! https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-2026-newsletter-posted/ Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:51:23 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-2026-newsletter-posted/ Check out the April 2026 Newsletter here! https://vfwseattle.org/news/march-2026-newsletter-posted/ Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:48:26 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/march-2026-newsletter-posted/ Check out the March 2026 Newsletter here! https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-partners-with-uw-mba-program/ Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-partners-with-uw-mba-program/ We're thrilled to announce that Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063 has officially kicked off a transformative collaboration with an exceptional team of six veterans from the UW Foster School of Business MBA Consulting Project! This spring quarter, these talented MBA candidates will be working closely with our Post leadership to develop actionable recommendations for improving member engagement and cultivating future leaders within our organization. Their military background combined with new business expertise creates a uniquely qualified team to address the challenges facing veteran service organizations today. https://vfwseattle.org/news/business-meetings-now-start-at-6-p-m/ Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/business-meetings-now-start-at-6-p-m/ Based on survey feedback about meeting formats, the post voted to shift our start time from 7 to 6 p.m. starting with our April 3 meeting! We will also cease providing meals. Here's our reasoning for the changes: Starting earlier will help folks who have a tough time driving in the dark.When we finish at 8, folks are too tired to socialize. We think ending by 7 p.m. will foster more opportunities for socializing outside the post (i. https://vfwseattle.org/news/commanders-corner-april-2025/ Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/commanders-corner-april-2025/ Comrades, Our post depends on strong leadership, and we still need volunteers for the Commander and Junior Vice Commander positions. Without these roles filled, our post cannot function effectively. We also have open appointed positions: Adjutant (records & correspondence), Chaplain (spiritual support), and Judge Advocate (bylaws & legal guidance). Last call for nominations and elections are at our April 3 meeting. This is your chance to make an impact! If you're interested, contact me or Quartermaster Joseph Mesa. https://vfwseattle.org/news/memorial-wall-renovation-support-needed/ Tue, 04 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/memorial-wall-renovation-support-needed/ VFW Post 3063 submitted a letter of support for the proposed updates to the Memorial Wall at Memorial Stadium, advocating for much-needed improvements to honor veterans with a more accessible and dignified space. The renovation plan includes a dedicated area for reflection and events while improving the wall’s setting away from parking areas. A briefing presentation shared with the Landmarks Preservation Board can be viewed here. The board is set to vote on the proposal soon, and public comments are encouraged. https://vfwseattle.org/news/2024-2025-officer-installation/ Thu, 30 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/2024-2025-officer-installation/ At our May 2 business meeting, Post 3063 officers were installed for 2024-2025. They will begin serving in their positions after the Department of Washington Convention in mid-June. Congratulations to our officers and thank you for volunteering to serve your fellow veterans and the community! Thank you also to Past Commander Nestor Tamayao for presiding. Here are the elected and appointed officers serving for the next year: Commander: Alyson Teeter Senior Vice Commander: Gabe Whetsel https://vfwseattle.org/news/city-passes-memorial-day-proclamation/ Wed, 29 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/city-passes-memorial-day-proclamation/ On May 21 Commander Teeter and Comrade Ellingboe, along with Comrade Jesse Palacios from West Seattle VFW and Dale Watanabe from the Nisei Veterans Committee, received a City of Seattle Government Memorial Day Proclamation. Comrade and Councilmember Robert Kettle sponsored the proclamation, along with Councilmember and veteran Rob Saka. This is the first City of Seattle Memorial Day Proclamation in recent history and we commend the veterans on the council for spearheading it. https://vfwseattle.org/news/service-officer-update-may-2024/ Fri, 26 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/service-officer-update-may-2024/ By Joseph Mesa In 2023, several critical issues concerning veterans have come to the forefront. Some of the key areas: Disability and Retirement Pay: 1. Last year, Congress passed a significant benefits expansion for veterans affected by toxic exposure injuries during their service. 2. However, the focus this year is on ensuring that veterans who suffered injuries while on duty receive all the compensation they deserve. 3. The issue revolves around concurrent receipt and the Major Richard Star Act. https://vfwseattle.org/news/surgeon-update-2/ Thu, 29 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/surgeon-update-2/ By Robert Lehman, M.D. I wanted to let all the veteran members know of a long-term research program you can get involved with.  This is called All of Us, which involves a number of Medical Centers and universities, but for our purposes it is also partnered with the VA.  The goal is to develop a database of information on 1 million people that then can be anonymously accessed by researchers trying to correlate all sorts of genetic and other medical conditions. https://vfwseattle.org/news/fundraiser-a-huge-success/ Wed, 01 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/fundraiser-a-huge-success/ We're still basking in the glow of our VFW Post 3063 fundraiser dinner and online auction's incredible success. The outpouring of support from each and every one of you has left us feeling both grateful and inspired. From the mouthwatering delights and cherished moments at our dinner to the spirited bidding and excitement in our live and online auctions, your involvement has made a significant difference in our mission. https://vfwseattle.org/news/commanders-corner-october-2023/ Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/commanders-corner-october-2023/ By Alyson Teeter Fall is here so that means we're in the midst of Post 3063's fundraising season. As the Seelig family knows, planning and executing a fundraising event is no easy feat. Please show up and support your fellow veterans on Oct. 21! It only takes 15 seconds to RSVP here so do it now. (So far we have less than 15.) Here are a few events coming up this week: Oct. 3 at 5:30 p. https://vfwseattle.org/news/five-and-five-discussion-group/ Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/five-and-five-discussion-group/ Comrade David Tyner, a veteran new to VFW Post 3063, felt a deep concern for the loneliness that plagues many veterans. He devised a solution: the "Five and Five" discussion group. It launched Sept. 21 and provided a safe haven for veterans to share their military experiences without fear of judgment. Thank you to everyone who participated! Stay tuned for future Five and Five discussion group opportunities. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-installation-for-2023-2024/ Tue, 30 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-installation-for-2023-2024/ At our May 1 business meeting, Post 3063 officers were installed for 2023-2024. The highlight was recognizing outgoing Post Quartermaster, Harold Rodenberger, for his service. For anybody who knows Harold, we can all agree that he has left an indelible mark on the post and membership. Here are the elected and appointed officers serving for the next year: Commander: Alyson Teeter Senior Vice Commander: Mark English Junior Vice Commander: Gabe Whetsel Quartermaster: Harold Hamilton https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-re-branding-update/ Wed, 01 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-re-branding-update/ While we've been working on updating the inside and outside of our post home, we've also been updating our digital presence. Our membership approved the new post logo at our February business meeting, which is now featured on our website and Facebook page. (We'll start having swag made with the new logo too.) You'll see that our website look was updated to reflect our new branding, along with this newsletter. Based on feedback from new members, we also created an Instagram account. https://vfwseattle.org/news/queen-anne-magnolia-news-profiles-comrade-bob-kettle/ Mon, 28 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/queen-anne-magnolia-news-profiles-comrade-bob-kettle/ Check out this profile from the Queen Anne & Magnolia News about one of our comrades, Bob Kettle. He's been a steadfast volunteer at Post 3063: he created and maintains our Facebook page and regularly emcees our annual Spaghetti Dinner. Bob is also a fierce local advocate to the city and school district for maintaining the Memorial Wall at Memorial Stadium. We are very fortunate to have him on our team as we continue to serve our community and veterans. https://vfwseattle.org/news/seelig-family-receives-service-award/ Thu, 27 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/seelig-family-receives-service-award/ At the Spaghetti Dinner and Fundraiser Oct. 22, Comrade Commander Teeter presented the Seelig family with a service award as they have been the linchpin for camaraderie at Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063 for nearly a decade. Vietnam Veteran Russell Seelig, his wife and chef, Kay, and adult daughters, Amber, Adrienne and Alyss, cook high quality meals every month for 15-20 veterans, family and friends, special holiday meals for 25-30, and more than 100 during yearly fundraisers. https://vfwseattle.org/news/veteran-of-the-year-award/ Thu, 28 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/veteran-of-the-year-award/ Comrade Commander Teeter received the Department of Washington's Veteran of the Year award at the post's July business meeting. Junior Past Commander Chad Hassebroek presented her with the award since she missed receiving it at the department's convention in June. Congratulations! https://vfwseattle.org/news/comrade-brunstads-puget-sound-honor-flight-recap/ Sun, 29 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/comrade-brunstads-puget-sound-honor-flight-recap/ By Mike Brunstad WOW! I had an awesome trip on the Puget Sound Honor Flight (PSHF) in late April 2022. The whole trip was amazing, from the time I arrived at SeaTac on April 23 to arriving back at SeaTac the night of April 25. I learned the mission for the Puget Sound Honor Flight is simple: to honor American veterans by inviting veterans to Washington, D.C. for two days to view our nation’s memorials. https://vfwseattle.org/news/memorial-stadium-neglect-future-in-question/ Mon, 31 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/memorial-stadium-neglect-future-in-question/ Comrade Bob Kettle has called attention to the neglect of the World II Memorial Wall at Memorial Stadium on Facebook. The wall includes nearly 750 names of Seattle Public Schools alumni etched in stone to honor those young servicemen who in WWII gave their last full measure of devotion to our country. According to Bob, "Now blighted memorial sits at the site. A rundown parking lot abuts it, with fountains and lighting long neglected, and trash strewn about. https://vfwseattle.org/news/1st-quarter-2022-newsletter-posted/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/1st-quarter-2022-newsletter-posted/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s 1st Quarter 2022 newsletter is posted here. Highlights include: Commander's Corner; Quartermaster's Update; Holidays Celebrated at Post 3063; Post Santa, Ann Leake, Featured in Seattle Times Video; Wreaths Across America 2021; All Three Youth Essay Winners Place at District Level; New Member Spotlight: Mark English and In Memoriam: Harland Goodrich. https://vfwseattle.org/news/all-three-youth-essay-winners-place-at-district-level/ Mon, 27 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/all-three-youth-essay-winners-place-at-district-level/ This year we had entries for all three of the youth essay contests. Nina Kieserman, a 15-year-old sophomore at Lincoln High School recited her district-winning Voice of Democracy essay at the Dec. 2 post business meeting (pictured left). Rylan Calica, a 14-year-old eighth grader from Rochester, was our winning Patriot’s Pen entrant. He won for his grade at the district level (center). Leela Baker, an 8-year-old 3rd grader from B.F. Day Elementary took first for the Youth Essay and also won at the district level (right). https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-santa-ann-leake-featured-in-seattle-times-video/ Mon, 27 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-santa-ann-leake-featured-in-seattle-times-video/ If you’ve ever attended a post holiday social, then you’ve met our incredible Santa, Ann Leake. This holiday season Seattle Times reporter Erika Schultz profiled Ann for a video feature. If you’d like to view the video, check it out at https://www.seattletimes.com/video/f1CR1Pr2/second-generation-santa-93-shares-joy-of-the-job/. Be sure to grab a tissue, Ann is a truly an inspiration! https://vfwseattle.org/news/commanders-corner-september-2021/ Thu, 30 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/commanders-corner-september-2021/ Comrades, I know this must feel a bit like Bill Murray’s Groundhog Day movie but we must keep our collective heads up and continue moving forward. This second dose of Covid-19 masking will pass too. In the meantime, however, we must continue with the masking in accordance with the mandated state requirements. Who knows if this will be short lived or not, but erring on the side of caution, it was determined that it was best for the September Post Business Meeting to be a Zoom only meeting. https://vfwseattle.org/news/thoughts-on-afghanistan/ Mon, 30 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/thoughts-on-afghanistan/ As we approach the 20th anniversary of 9/11, the news coming out of Afghanistan in recent weeks has been tough to watch, especially for our Afghanistan veterans. Here are some poignant words from our comrade, Robert Kettle: I remember clearly 9/11 and the summer 20 years ago at SIXTH Fleet as we worked through Intelligence reporting and all the chatter about a pending strike. I remember clearly too the COLE bombing in Aden harbor 11 months before which had us already ramped up as we embarked on the Global War on Terror. https://vfwseattle.org/news/spaghetti-fundraiser-save-the-date/ Thu, 29 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/spaghetti-fundraiser-save-the-date/ The post's annual Spaghetti Fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 23 starting at 5 pm. We plan to host a wonderful dinner, courtesy of Chef Kay and a raffle for select items. We'll also host a virtual auction for big ticket items. If you have an item to donate, contact the post at adjutant@vfwseattle.org. We anticipate it will look like our past fundraisers but specific details will be announced closer to the date. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-receives-state-awards-at-department-annual-convention/ Mon, 28 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-receives-state-awards-at-department-annual-convention/ King County Sheriff Deputy Bob Nix, Post 3063’s Law Enforcement Award recipient, receives the state level award during the VFW and Auxiliary Departments of Washington 101st Annual Convention Banquet in Spokane, June 25, 2021. He is pictured with National Commander Hal Roesch and Department Commander Traci Williams. Deputy Nix will go on to compete with other state-level award recipients at the national level. Congratulations to our Post 3063 leadership for achieving All State Post status, which entails completing various reports on time, reaching membership goals, attending district meetings/workshops, participating in community activities, and other factors. https://vfwseattle.org/news/newsletter-places-third-in-national-contest/ Sat, 29 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/newsletter-places-third-in-national-contest/ Courtesy of VFW.org The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) announced the winners of the 2021 National Publications Contest April 30, 2021. Covering the 2020 calendar year, this year’s Publications Contest garnered 56 entries, surpassing last year’s 39 submissions. Entries for the contest derived from 35 Posts/Districts and 10 Departments. There were four submissions for the “Best Magazine” category and 12 submissions for “Best Feature Article.” Of the 56 entries, 16 placed. https://vfwseattle.org/news/2021-2022-officers-installation-ceremony-held/ Fri, 28 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/2021-2022-officers-installation-ceremony-held/ Former VFW District 2 Commander Carl Cristopherson installed the 2021-2022 slate of elected and appointed officers of VFW Post 3063 on May 6. First nominations were made in March, followed by second nominations and an election in April. Officers do not take office until July after the department commander is installed. Congratulations and good luck to the new leadership team! Commander: Joe Fitzgerald Sr. Vice Commander: Bryce White Jr. Vice Commander: Alyson Teeter https://vfwseattle.org/news/0-to-100-project-launch-includes-post-3063-member-portraits/ Sat, 27 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/0-to-100-project-launch-includes-post-3063-member-portraits/ In the Fall of 2019, local photographer Ahamed Iqbal asked to photograph members of Post 3063 for his 0 to 100 photography project, which documents people from ages 0 to 100. Ahamed recently wrote, "Just wanted to let you know that I just launched my photography project's website today: 0to100plus.com. To find someone directly by name you can use this link (alphabetical order): 0to100plus.com/names. I'm so grateful to you for connecting me to the men and women at the VFW and truly appreciate them being so open and friendly with me. https://vfwseattle.org/news/get-vaccinated-at-the-va/ Wed, 27 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/get-vaccinated-at-the-va/ Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger receives his COVID-19 Vaccine at the VA Medical Center in Seattle. Vaccines are now available for eligible veterans at the VA (for more info go here). Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger received his vaccine and here's a write-up about his experience: After we became eligible, I spent several days trying (and being disappointed) to get appointments for my wife and myself on the various sites handling vaccination appointments. Thursday afternoon I received an email from the VA saying that eligible veterans could call to schedule appointments. https://vfwseattle.org/news/goodbye-to-smoke-stained-ceilings/ Wed, 27 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/goodbye-to-smoke-stained-ceilings/ By Harold Rodenberger Those of you who have been in our hall in the past few years may have noticed that the ceiling tiles are yellowish from the days of inside smoking and stained from water leaks. A few weeks ago, our contact at FRIHET 402, VASA (Swedish Freedom Assoc), called and wanted to know if we could use some almost new ceiling tiles. They were removing a dropped ceiling in their recreation center at Lake Sammamish and were willing to donate them to our post. https://vfwseattle.org/news/vaccine-update-from-the-post-surgeon/ Tue, 29 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/vaccine-update-from-the-post-surgeon/ By Robert Lehman, M.D., Post 3063 Surgeon There are a lot of unknowns regarding getting your vaccination for SAR2 (Covid19). As physician and public health officer, I read and troll for updates at least twice a day, and so I’m probably more informed than most, but there are still answers I do not have. Two vaccines are approved and somewhat available now. These are both a new type of vaccine that uses a messenger RNA (m-RNA) technique. https://vfwseattle.org/news/commanders-corner-and-auction-recap-october-2020/ Tue, 29 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/commanders-corner-and-auction-recap-october-2020/ Well Done Comrades! The raffle that wasn’t - actually was pretty much of a successful Owl! It was obvious to the fundraising committee that this year our usual sit down Spaghetti Dinner and Raffle was not going to happen due to the restrictions and limitations of Covid-19... and so, the raffle would not happen either. It began to look like we would just have to make do with the Spaghetti dinner ala take out that Chef Kay Seelig has perfected, and that would be it for this year. https://vfwseattle.org/news/june-2020-newsletter-posted/ Mon, 01 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/june-2020-newsletter-posted/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s June 2020 newsletter is posted here. Highlights include: Post 3063 Reaches a Milestone; Still 'Zoomin' For June Business Meeting; Comrades Connect Virtually; and May Social Feeds 65 Comrades and Family Members. https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-social-feeds-65-comrades-and-family-members/ Mon, 01 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-social-feeds-65-comrades-and-family-members/ Comrade White picks up his takeout meal. With the Governor's Stay Home, Stay Safe order, we have continued to serve our regular third Thursday social night dinner for take out. Chef Kay Seelig and Linda Stokke prepared a belated Cinco de Mayo meal for 65 members May 21 (which is a much higher number than our regular monthly socials)! We've also collected more donations and are starting to break even on socials, which is a plus. https://vfwseattle.org/news/membership-milestone/ Mon, 01 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/membership-milestone/ We've reached a milestone: Post 3063 has 201 members in good standing! After decades of peaks and valleys of membership, we're heading in the right direction. Thank you for your support! https://vfwseattle.org/news/king-county-veterans-consortium-april-virtual-muster-notes/ Sat, 30 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/king-county-veterans-consortium-april-virtual-muster-notes/ 30 April 2020 The KCVC and greater PNW veteran community is truly digging deep to adapt, improvise, and respond to our people during this time. We thank each and every one of you for your compassion, humor, and hard work to meet our community where they are at. Here are some quick notes from today's muster. Ryan Mielcarek from KCVC Follow up from meeting in March. Informal volunteer network of cross-sector providers and partners. https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-2020-newsletter-posted/ Fri, 01 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-2020-newsletter-posted/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s May 2020 newsletter is posted here. Highlights include: Post 2020-2021 Election Results; VFW Cancels Reno National Convention; Take Out Social at Post 3063; Thank You to the Guardsmen at Ballard Food Bank; Letter to Fundraiser Donors and VA COVID-19 Resources. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-3063-2020-2021-election-results/ Sun, 26 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-3063-2020-2021-election-results/ During the virtual April business meeting, the following slate of 2020-2021 officers were voted on and elected. They will take on their new position in July. Commander – Joe Fitzgerald Sr Vice Commander – Bryce White Jr Vice Commander – Aly Teeter Quartermaster – Harold Rodenberger Chaplain – Aaron Stoltz Three-Year Trustee – Joe Tiffany Three-Year House Committee Member – Russ Seelig  https://vfwseattle.org/news/take-out-social-at-post-3063/ Sun, 26 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/take-out-social-at-post-3063/ By Harold Rodenberger With the Governor's order to avoid gatherings and unnecessary movement, we decided to make a special effort to serve our regular third Thursday Social night dinner for take out. Chef Kay Seelig and husband, Russ, prepared a meal of sausage medallions with house-made mustard; smoked sockeye salmon, roasted potatoes and onions and roasted asparagus; with homemade cookies for dessert. Members came by and picked up about forty meals and Josh Edwards delivered six more to people who couldn't make it to the hall. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-3063-office-closed-indefinitely/ Tue, 24 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-3063-office-closed-indefinitely/ Effective immediately, and until further notice, VFW Post 3063 open office hours on Thursdays and Saturdays are temporarily suspended. Our regular monthly business meeting on 4/2/20 will be conducted via Zoom. Instructions for using Zoom will be furnished later. In case of emergency, members are invited to contact the Quartermaster, Harold Rodenberger, at 206-972-2135 or quartermaster@vfwseattle.org. https://vfwseattle.org/news/vfw-washington-state-middle-school-teacher-of-the-year/ Sun, 01 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/vfw-washington-state-middle-school-teacher-of-the-year/ Last month during our Department of Washington Mid-Winter Conference in Quartermaster Rodenberger presenting Dan with the State Teacher of Year Certificate. Yakima, Dan Waldschmidt, our Ballard Eagleson middle school teacher of the year, was announced as the VFW Washington State Middle School Teacher of the Year. Dan teaches Social Studies and History at Hamilton International Middle School. He received a $1,000 check and is now competing for the VFW National Middle School Teacher of the Year. https://vfwseattle.org/news/highlights-from-the-mid-winter/ Sun, 26 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/highlights-from-the-mid-winter/ By Alyson Teeter Members of Post 3063 traveled in the snow to attend the annual VFW Department of Washington Mid-Winter convention in Yakima Jan. 17-18, 2020. From left to right: Comrades Rodenberger, Fitzgerald, Teeter and Tiffany attended the Mid-Winter Convention. Commander Joe Tiffany, Sr. Vice Commander Joe Fitzgerald, Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger and Adjutant Aly Teeter were in attendance and sat in on business meetings, breakout sessions, and a banquet that recognized the department-level essay winners and teacher and first responder award recipients. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-announces-youth-essay-winners/ Sat, 30 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-announces-youth-essay-winners/ Congratulations to the following students who won the the annual VFW Youth Essay contests for Post 3063! They received a cash prize and also went on to compete at the district level. The winning essays are linked to their names below. Voice of Democracy: Jessica Chacko (also placed 2nd in District #2) Patriot’s Pen: Chloe Sow (also received honorable mention in District #2) Youth Essay: Luce Hart The Post 3063 Teacher of the Year, Dan Waldschmidt, placed first at the District #2 competition and will go on to compete statewide. https://vfwseattle.org/news/annual-fundraiser-yet-again-an-outstanding-success/ Thu, 26 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/annual-fundraiser-yet-again-an-outstanding-success/ By Alyson Teeter VFW Post 3063 hosted its Annual Spaghetti Fundraiser and Raffle Sept. 14, 2019. The annual tradition, which has been held at the post hall for a number of years, brought in $6,264.20: an increase of nearly $500 from 2018! The post hall was full of family and friends enjoying each other’s company. The net proceeds will be deposited in the Post Relief Fund, which benefits a variety of causes, from local veterans in need — including those at the Seattle VA hospital — to the VFW’s National Home for Children. https://vfwseattle.org/news/raffle-prize-gifted-to-pow/ Thu, 26 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/raffle-prize-gifted-to-pow/ From Comrade Bill Griffith: "...at lunch I presented to Bill Wilson the spoon I won at our Post 3063 fundraiser. The spoon was made from aluminum that fell from the sky over Laos. Bill contributed to this collection until his F111 was shot down over Hanoi and he spent the rest of the war in prison. Thanks go to Russ Seelig for bringing this spoon home from Laos and donating it to the raffle. https://vfwseattle.org/news/ballard-19-author-publishes-new-book-about-local-oif-hero/ Fri, 28 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/ballard-19-author-publishes-new-book-about-local-oif-hero/ The Post 3063 Adjutant received a tip from local writer of the “The Ballard 19”, Jerry Smith, that he recently published a book called “Valor in Iraq.” It documents the story of a 2003 Ballard High School graduate, Daniel Chavez, who died fighting for his country in Iraq. Here’s a link to an article about the book, which is available on Amazon. All proceeds go to the Daniel Chavez Scholarship at Ballard High School. https://vfwseattle.org/news/comrade-rodenberger-awarded-states-veteran-of-the-year/ Thu, 27 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/comrade-rodenberger-awarded-states-veteran-of-the-year/ We’re proud to announce that Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger was named the VFW Department of Washington’s Veteran of the Year at the 2019 State Conference! Congratulations Comrade Rodenberger, it’s so well deserved! Here’s a congratulatory message from the District 2 Commander, Carl”Chris”Christophersen: Comrades, Harold Rodenberger was honored at the June 2019 VFW Department of Washington (State) Convention that was just concluded in Vancouver, WA. Harold and 3 of his fellow Ballard-Eagleson VFW Post 3063 members were in attendance (the “3 Joes”) — the 2019-20 Commander Joe Tiffany, 2019-20 Sr Vice Commander Joe Fitzgerald and 2019-20 Service Officer Joe Cassis. https://vfwseattle.org/news/group-travels-to-dc-visit-memorials/ Wed, 29 May 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/group-travels-to-dc-visit-memorials/ You may remember the March Irish Stew Fundraiser spearheaded by Comrade Leo Potts, who had the goal of sending a group of veterans to Washington, D.C. to view war memorials. After months of fundraising and logistical planning, he reached his goal when a group of nine VFW Post 3063 members, one DAV member, and a few spouses departed on their trip May 17. Over the course of the trip, the group visited various war memorials, to include the Korean War Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, and the Marine Corps War Memorial. https://vfwseattle.org/news/national-commander-visits-seattle/ Mon, 29 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/national-commander-visits-seattle/ The VFW National Commander, BJ Lawrence, met with District 2 members during a visit to Rainier VFW Post 2289 April 27. Pictured here from left to right is Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger, Sr Vice Commander Joe Tiffany, National Commander Lawrence, and State Commander Linda Fairbank. https://vfwseattle.org/news/teacher-of-the-year-and-vod-nominees-place-first-in-district-2/ Thu, 27 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/teacher-of-the-year-and-vod-nominees-place-first-in-district-2/ Hamilton International Middle School Teacher Daniel Waldschmidt was nominated by Post 3063 as Teacher of the Year and placed first at District 2. He’ll go on to compete at the state level, which will be announced during January’s Mid-Winter Conference in Yakima. Kate Cavanaugh, a senior at Holy Names Academy, is our Voice of Democracy winner. Kate read her essay during the December business meeting and received a standing ovation. Kate also placed first at District 2 and will go on to compete at the state level. https://vfwseattle.org/news/annual-spaghetti-fundraiser-volunteers-hard-work-pays-off/ Thu, 27 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/annual-spaghetti-fundraiser-volunteers-hard-work-pays-off/ By Alyson M. Teeter [caption id=“attachment_1366” align=“alignright” width=“200”] A sampling of the raffle prizes included art, dinner gift certificates, and vacation houses. There was something for everyone as there were more than 60 raffle prizes.[/caption] Many hours of work paid off for VFW Post 3063 volunteers during the VFW Post 3063 Annual Spaghetti Fundraiser and Raffle Sept. 8, 2018. The annual spaghetti fundraiser, which has been held at the post hall for a number of years, brought in $5797. https://vfwseattle.org/news/september-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Sat, 01 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/september-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s September 2018 e-newsletter is available here. Highlights include: Buy Your Fundraiser Tickets; Community Service Reporting; VFW Remembers Sen. John McCain; Disabled Veterans Will Soon be Able to Fly Space-A; and Veterans Committees Pressure VA to Conduct Cannabis Research. https://vfwseattle.org/news/august-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Thu, 02 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/august-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s August 2018 e-newsletter is available here. Highlights include: VFW National Convention Trip Report; From the Auxiliary: Vacationing Vet; Comrade Al Simpson Receives the Ambassador for Peace Medal; Post and Boy Scouts Team Up to Retire Flags; Call Out For Fundraising Donations; and Victory Garden Update. https://vfwseattle.org/news/recap-vfw-national-convention-2018/ Tue, 31 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/recap-vfw-national-convention-2018/ By Nestor Tamayao The 119th National Convention Veterans of Foreign Wars convened July 21 – 25 at the Kansas City, Mo. Convention Center. The attending post delegates to the convention were Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger, Junior Vice-Commander Joe Fitzgerald, Trustee Aaron Stoltz, Junior Past-Commander Nestor Tamayao, and Comrade James Williams. VFW Village in Exhibition Hall. On Saturday and Sunday, the exhibition hall had many vendors’ and sponsors’ exhibits, a health fair, an auction, “Buddy” Poppy Contest featuring entries constructed of poppies, a veterans walk-in claims clinic, Southern, Big Ten, Eastern and Western Conference Caucuses as well as various committee meetings. https://vfwseattle.org/news/3rd-quarter-2018-newsletter-available-for-download/ Sun, 01 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/3rd-quarter-2018-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s 3rd Quarter 2018 newsletter is available here. Highlights include: Commander and Quartermaster updates; Post Garners Recognition at Convention: All State, Newsletter; and Post 3063 in the News. If you wish to subscribe to our newsletter, please contact the adjutant. https://vfwseattle.org/news/from-the-commander-july-2018/ Sun, 01 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/from-the-commander-july-2018/ By Pete Krawitz First, I’d like to thank you all for voting to have me stay on as the post commander for another year. I’m very humbled by the privilege to serve you and the community in this capacity. The rest of the leadership team and I look forward to continuing to work with you to build off the momentum that we’ve been building over the years. I’d like to take a minute to reflect and celebrate some of our successes in the 2017/2018 term. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-3063-in-the-news/ Wed, 27 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-3063-in-the-news/ “Singapore summit offering hope to Korean war veteran, Korean-Americans, too.” Comrade Al Simpson spoke to KIRO 7 News about his thoughts on the U.S.-North Korean summit. He reflected on his service during the Korean War and his hope for a brighter future. Check it out at https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/singapore-summit-offering-hope-to-korean-war-veteran-korean-americans-too/768641285. “Seattle war memorial to lose battle guns, drawing criticism even as city cites safety, costs” The Seattle Times reported on the removal of the Dewey gun batteries from Woodland Park. https://vfwseattle.org/news/all-state-post/ Mon, 25 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/all-state-post/ By Alyson Teeter Post delegates attended the VFW Department of Washington’s 2018 State Convention in Bremerton June 21-23. The convention started with a joint session with the auxiliary that featured numerous guest speakers, including Governor Jay Inslee and VFW Auxiliary National President Dee Guillory. During the joint session, awards were also presented, and our post newsletter, the Ballard Eagleson Patriot, won first place in the Class I category. Various committees met for business, by-law changes were voted on, and department leadership was elected and installed for the new year. https://vfwseattle.org/news/2018-2019-officers-installed/ Fri, 11 May 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/2018-2019-officers-installed/ VFW District 2 Commander Linda Fairbank installed the 2018-2019 slate of elected and appointed officers of VFW Post 3063 on May 3. First nominations were made in March, followed by second nominations and an election in April. Officers do not take office until July after the department commander is installed. Congratulations and good luck to the new leadership team! Commander: Pete Krawitz Sr. Vice Commander: Joe Tiffany Jr. Vice Commander: Joe Fitzgerald Chaplain: Bill Griffith Quartermaster: Harold Rodenberger 1-Year Trustee: Aaron Stoltz 2-Year Trustee: Russ Seelig 3-Year Trustee: Jon Guncay 1-Year House Committee: Doug Maines 2-Year House Committee: Jordan Houghton 3-Year House Committee: Alyson Teeter Adjutant - Alyson Teeter Judge Advocate - Dan Stokke Surgeon - Tiffany Cavin Adjutant - Alyson Teeter Service Officer - Gail Engler Officer of the Day - Anthony Rose Guard - Anthony Rose https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Wed, 02 May 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s May 2018 e-newsletter is available here. Highlights include: Today is Loyalty Day; Standing Watch at Herb Leake Interment; Honoring our Korean War Veterans; Glass Blowing Project Honors Doughboys; New Member Spotlight; In Memoriam: Bob Ferguell; Post Achieves 100% Membership; and We Need Board Games. https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam-bob-ferguell/ Wed, 18 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam-bob-ferguell/ During the April business meeting the post charter was draped with a black cloth for the following comrade who recently passed away. The charter will stay draped for 30 days in his honor. Bob Ferguell - U.S. Army; Vietnam War. See obituary here. https://vfwseattle.org/news/2nd-quarter-2018-newsletter-available-for-download/ Mon, 02 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/2nd-quarter-2018-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s 2nd Quarter 2018 print newsletter is available here. Highlights include From the Commander column; Quartermaster Update; Tiny House Homeless Encampment Moves to Northlake; Auxiliary President Recognizes District, State Officers; New Member Spotlight; and MIA Comrades: Let Us Know How You Are Doing. https://vfwseattle.org/news/march-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Thu, 01 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/march-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s March 2018 e-newsletter is available here. Highlights include: Post Adjutant Outlines Communication Initiatives; Sr. Vice has Recruiting Plans; KOMO 4 News Update on Tiny House Village Move; VA Resumes Online Applications for New ID Cards; and The Iraq War: VFW Members Take a Look Back. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-adjutant-outlines-communication-initiatives/ Tue, 27 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-adjutant-outlines-communication-initiatives/ By Alyson M. Teeter, Post Adjutant When I took on the job as post adjutant last year, I didn’t know what the job entailed besides taking business meeting notes and periodically emailing the post. Eventually I read a job description that said, “The Post Adjutant is a conduit for information between the Post Commander and the members of the Post, as well as between the Post and the general public. Effective communication skills are necessary to maintain a productive harmonious atmosphere among members and help to recruit new members. https://vfwseattle.org/news/february-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Thu, 01 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/february-2018-e-newsletter-available/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s February 2018 e-newsletter is available here. Highlights include: Greetings from the Newly-Elected Auxiliary President; Trip Report: Mid-Winter Conference 2018; Tips From the Post Service Officer; Seven Post Honor Guard Members Participate in Wreaths Across America Ceremony; and The Last Best Place. https://vfwseattle.org/news/greetings-from-the-newly-elected-auxiliary-president-donna-limric/ Wed, 31 Jan 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/greetings-from-the-newly-elected-auxiliary-president-donna-limric/ Hello, my name is Donna Limric and I’m the newly elected VFW Post 3063 Auxiliary President. Thank you to the members of the auxiliary for your votes of confidence. I would also like to introduce our newly elected Sr. Vice President Margo Clutter and our newly elected Treasurer Elizabeth Guncay. I would like to express our gratitude to the past officers for their service and hard work. Last summer I became a member of the auxiliary to support my husband, Norman Limric. https://vfwseattle.org/news/1st-quarter-newsletter-available-for-download/ Tue, 02 Jan 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/1st-quarter-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s 1st Quarter 2018 print newsletter is available here. Highlights include From the Commander column; Quartermaster Update; Young and Old Celebrate the Holidays Together at Post 3063; Zoom Software Digitally Connects Members to Post Meetings; and Herb Leake: Engineer, Aid to MacArthur & Devoted Husband. https://vfwseattle.org/news/herb-leake-engineer-aid-to-macarthur-devoted-husband/ Thu, 28 Dec 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/herb-leake-engineer-aid-to-macarthur-devoted-husband/ By Gail Engler It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of Post 3063 Life Member Herb Leake who passed away on Nov. 21, 2017 at the age of 97. Herb was born on April 8, 1920 in St. Charles, Illinois. Herb was a Veteran of WWII and served in the U.S. Army, a member of the 101st Airborne. Herb attended ROTC at University of Washington, and studied Aeronautical Engineering. https://vfwseattle.org/news/young-and-old-celebrate-the-holidays-together-at-post-3063/ Thu, 28 Dec 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/young-and-old-celebrate-the-holidays-together-at-post-3063/ Post 3063 hosted its annual holiday party during the December social on Dec. 21, 2017. It was a festive event for young and old. Nearly a hundred members, loved ones, and guests attended and dined on free beef tenderloin cooked by Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger (Chef Kay was recuperating from injuries sustained during a fall. Get well soon, Kay!). Harold also organized the event. Anne Leake gave gifts to the children as Santa: she has played Santa for the past several years. https://vfwseattle.org/news/december-2017-e-newsletter-available/ Thu, 14 Dec 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/december-2017-e-newsletter-available/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s December 2017 e-newsletter is available here. Highlights include From the Commander column; Boy Scouts Receive Donation from Post; Why Use Vetverify.org and ID.me; Auxiliary Coordinating Holiday Food Drive; 48-Star Flag Available; Survey Finds Military Vets are More Likely to be Scam Victims; and In Memoriam. https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam-december-2017/ Fri, 01 Dec 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam-december-2017/ During the December business meeting, the post charter will be draped with a black cloth for the following comrade who recently passed away. The charter will stay draped for 30 days in their honor. Herbert R. Leake - U.S. Army; World War II Pacific Theater, Philippine Liberation; Aide to General McArthur; Retired as Lieutenant Colonel, Army National Guard; 41st Division, 162nd Infantry https://vfwseattle.org/news/boy-scouts-receive-check-from-post/ Wed, 29 Nov 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/boy-scouts-receive-check-from-post/ By Gail Engler Troop 80 from Magnolia attended the post social Nov. 16, 2017 to accept a $150 donation from Post 3063. The troop was represented by eight Boy Scouts, Post 3063 member Elizabeth Servey, who is the troop’s Advancement Chair, her husband Brian Servey, and Molly Mort, both Assistant Scoutmasters. The Troop is very active, especially during the spring and summer months when they hike, camp, and work on their outdoor survival skills. https://vfwseattle.org/news/survey-finds-military-vets-are-more-likely-to-be-scam-victims/ Sat, 25 Nov 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/survey-finds-military-vets-are-more-likely-to-be-scam-victims/ Check this out! Our very own comrade, Post 3063 Chaplain Bill Griffith, spoke with KOMO 4 News about scams targeting veterans. “…according to a new survey by the AARP Fraud Watch Network, you’re twice as likely to fall victim to scams if you’re a military veteran.” https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam-november-2017/ Tue, 31 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam-november-2017/ During the October and November business meetings, the post charter will be draped with a black cloth for the following comrades who recently passed away. The charter will stay draped for 30 days in their honor. Al Linden, U.S. Army, World War II: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=albert-d-linden&pid=186751217 William Mattson, U.S. Army, World War II: http://m.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=william-j-mattson&pid=186975750 https://vfwseattle.org/news/november-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Tue, 31 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/november-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s November 2017 newsletter is available for download here. Highlights include Michael Lawrence Receives Legacy Life Membership; Members visit Tacoma’s Horse Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers Museum; Comrade Turner’s Daughter Winning Fight Against Cancer; King County Vets Consortium Chair Discusses Prop 1; VA Hospital Visit Planned For Nov. 10; In Memoriam; and the Veterans Day Events Calendar. https://vfwseattle.org/news/comrade-turners-daughter-winning-fight-against-cancer/ Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/comrade-turners-daughter-winning-fight-against-cancer/ You may remember the story of Comrade Evan Turner’s daughter, Lillian, who was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, Stage 4S in April. Comrade Turner and his oldest daughter receive the $500 check. Post 3063 voted to donate $500 to Evan and his family to help with her fight against cancer. The check was presented to the Turner family during the post’s monthly business meeting Oct. 5, 2017. We are ecstatic to report that Lillian’s prognosis is good and she’s a true warrior in her fight against cancer! https://vfwseattle.org/news/flu-shots-available-at-walgreens/ Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/flu-shots-available-at-walgreens/ https://vfwseattle.org/news/king-county-vets-consortium-chair-discusses-prop-1/ Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/king-county-vets-consortium-chair-discusses-prop-1/ During the Post 3063 October Social on Oct. 19, 2017, Ryan Mielcarek, chair of the King County Veterans Consortium, presented information about Proposition 1, “The King County Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy.” Ryan Mielcarek, chair of the King County Veterans Consortium, presented information about Proposition 1, “The King County Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy” Oct. 19, 2017. According to the King County Voter’s Guide, “If approved, this proposition would replace an expiring levy and fund capital facilities and regional health and human services for veterans and military servicemembers and their families, seniors and their caregivers, and vulnerable populations. https://vfwseattle.org/news/members-visit-tacomas-horse-cavalry-buffalo-soldiers-museum-in-tacoma/ Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/members-visit-tacomas-horse-cavalry-buffalo-soldiers-museum-in-tacoma/ By Nestor Tamayao Recently Comrade Aaron Stoltz and I visited a museum that we never knew existed. Nestled within a residential neighborhood in Tacoma is the 9th and 10th Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers Museum. Founded in 2005, the museum showcases an overlooked part of American history: the Buffalo Soldiers. The museum began operating in 2012. Buffalo Soldiers originally were members of the U.S. 10th Cavalry Regiment of the United States Army, which was formed on September 21, 1866 at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. https://vfwseattle.org/news/michael-lawrence-receives-legacy-life-membership/ Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/michael-lawrence-receives-legacy-life-membership/ Comrade Michael Lawrence (center) is presented with a plaque and a Legacy Life Membership for his service to other veterans by Commander Pete Krawitz (right) on Oct. 5, 2017. Post 3063 presented a Legacy Life Membership to Comrade Michael Lawrence for his exemplary service and tremendous generosity at the October business meeting on Oct. 5, 2017. Mike headed up the post’s visits to the Seattle VA Medical Center for numerous years and donated large amounts of money to the VFW Children’s Home and Post 3063 Relief Fund. https://vfwseattle.org/news/from-the-commander-october-2017/ Sun, 01 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/from-the-commander-october-2017/ By Pete Krawitz What a great way to end the summer. We pulled off a very successful spaghetti dinner and raffle event, raising over $4K for our various programs. A huge thank you to all who made this event a success. A special thank you to Comrade Russ Seelig, his wife, Kay, and their friends and family who volunteered a significant amount of time coordinating the event. I’d also like to acknowledge the great work our color guard is doing. https://vfwseattle.org/news/october-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Sun, 01 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/october-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s October 2017 newsletter is available for download here. Highlights include September Spaghetti Fundraiser Nets $4K for Relief Fund; 105 year-old WWII Vet Joins Post During Birthday Party; Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen Essays due Oct. 31; and Veteran Designation Available for WA State Driver’s Licenses. https://vfwseattle.org/news/quartermasters-update-october-2017/ Sun, 01 Oct 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/quartermasters-update-october-2017/ By Harold Rodenberger September was a good month for our VFW Post. We’re off to a good start in the membership department with six new members on board. This puts us in the lead for our district but the year is still young. Our commander has set a goal of fifty percent above our 100% goal so it will take steady growth to achieve that lofty goal. Every one of us needs to keep an eye out for potential new members. https://vfwseattle.org/news/veteran-designation-available-for-wa-state-drivers-licenses/ Tue, 26 Sep 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/veteran-designation-available-for-wa-state-drivers-licenses/ Courtesy of VFW Department of WA Facebook Page You can now get a Veteran designation on your WA driver licenses or ID card. If you’re only changing your veterans status, you will get a replacement license with the veteran status added for free. (If you’re renewing your license or adding an endorsement you will need to pay the normal fees for that.) Bring your DD Form 214 that shows “honorable” or “general under honorable conditions” status to a driver licensing office. https://vfwseattle.org/news/from-the-commander-september-2017/ Thu, 31 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/from-the-commander-september-2017/ By Pete Krawitz Comrades, On August 12th, Comrade Rodenberger and I attended the Department of Washington’s “School of Instruction” in Everett. This event gave us the opportunity to hear from our new State Commander (John Bradburn) and Auxiliary President (Laurie Lukas). They discussed their vision/theme for the 2017/2018 calendar year. Department’s theme this year is TEAM - Together Everyone Achieves More. The State Leadership team is particularly interested in the VFW and Auxiliary working together to achieve more. https://vfwseattle.org/news/quartermasters-update-september-2017/ Thu, 31 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/quartermasters-update-september-2017/ It’s been said that all things change. Geological change appears unchanging to us while Moore’s Law concerning computing seems to allow change so rapid we can hardly follow. As we grow older we change physically and mentally. It seems just yesterday I was a young man with many goals, working hard and supporting a family. Suddenly I realize I’m an old man having achieved many of those goals, approaching the winter of my life and finding the changes in our world and country almost incomprehensible. https://vfwseattle.org/news/september-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Thu, 31 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/september-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s September 2017 newsletter is available for download here. Highlights include Post 3063 Reps Attend National Convention in New Orleans; Ken Burns Vietnam Documentary Airs Sept. 17 on PBS; VA Coordinator Needed; Fundraiser Quickly Approaching; WDVA hosting Women Veterans Summit in Lynnwood Sept. 16; and Color Guard Represents. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-3063-reps-attend-national-convention-in-new-orleans/ Sun, 27 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-3063-reps-attend-national-convention-in-new-orleans/ By Nestor Tamayao The VFW’s 118th National Convention took place in New Orleans, La. July 22-26, 2017. It was attended by six post delegates and one alternate delegate. They were Commander Nestor Tamayao, Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger, Junior Vice Commander Joe Fitzgerald, Trustees Aaron Stoltz, James Williams and Russ Seelig, and Surgeon Dan Stokke. While the initial business session occurred on Monday, July 24, there were plenty of events on the Saturday and Sunday before. https://vfwseattle.org/news/sign-up-for-email-blasts/ Thu, 24 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/sign-up-for-email-blasts/ Would you like to know about local veteran deals or volunteering? Well you’re in luck: the post has created email lists for veteran deals and volunteer opportunities! Once you’re a member of the group mailing list, you’ll have the ability to share information with the entire list. You can now sign up for each list by emailing Adjutant Aly Teeter at adjutant@vfwseattle.org or text/call at 206-701-9259. https://vfwseattle.org/news/va-coordinator-needed/ Thu, 24 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/va-coordinator-needed/ Veteran patients at the Seattle VA Medical Center need OUR help! Post 3063 lost its VA volunteer coordinator and we need someone to step up and take charge of this important duty. This position will need to coordinate with the hospital and the post to set up hospital visits during holidays. The post has been absent previous holidays and we’ve heard that veterans have noticed. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Quartermaster Rodenberger at quartermaster@vfwseattle. https://vfwseattle.org/news/wdva-hosting-women-veterans-summit-in-lynnwood-sept-16/ Thu, 24 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/wdva-hosting-women-veterans-summit-in-lynnwood-sept-16/ The Women Veterans Summit will be September 16, 2017 at the Lynnwood Convention Center. Registration is free and open here. This summit will provide comprehensive information regarding federal and state benefits and managing the challenges women veterans of all ages and services face today. Registration is free for all veterans and current members of the armed forces, but donations and sponsorships will be gladly accepted. https://vfwseattle.org/news/august-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Tue, 01 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/august-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s August 2017 newsletter is available for download here. Highlights include Commander and QM Receive White Hats at State Convention; Fishing For Members; Member in Distress: Comrade’s Daughter Fighting Cancer; Past Commander Pinning; In Memoriam; Post Members Trekking in Nepal; and Spaghetti Raffle Flyer. https://vfwseattle.org/news/quartermasters-update-august-2017/ Tue, 01 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/quartermasters-update-august-2017/ By Harold Rodenberger July was a busy month around our post. The first day of the month saw your quartermaster setting off on a fishing trip. My name was drawn from those recruiting at least five new or reinstated members so I joined the other lucky winners fishing for salmon out of Westport. Kudos to the members of Westport VFW Post 3057 who played host. Afterward, State Commander Elmer Clark passed out prizes for largest fish, first fish, etc. https://vfwseattle.org/news/commander-and-qm-receive-white-hats-at-state-convention/ Wed, 26 Jul 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/commander-and-qm-receive-white-hats-at-state-convention/ The VFW’s Washington State Department convened June 21-24 at the Hilton Hotel in Olympia. There were workshops for service officers, quartermasters, and recruiters. The business sessions covered communications from national; proposed changes to our state bylaws; reports and updates from all the Nestor Tamayao and Harold Rodenberger wear their newly-awarded “White Hats.” state officers and committee chairs; and nominations, elections and installation of officers at state level. Former Commander Nestor Tamayao and Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger received “White Hats” for completing various reports on time, membership goal achievement, attendance at district meetings/workshops, community activities, and other factors. https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam-august-2017/ Wed, 26 Jul 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam-august-2017/ During the August business meeting, the post charter will be draped with a black cloth for the following comrade who recently passed away. The charter will stay draped for 30 days in his honor. Robert White, U.S. Army, Vietnam War https://vfwseattle.org/news/member-in-distress-comrades-daughter-fighting-cancer/ Wed, 26 Jul 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/member-in-distress-comrades-daughter-fighting-cancer/ It was recently brought to Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger’s attention that Comrade Evan Turner’s seven-month-old baby daughter, Lillian, was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, Stage 4S in April. Comrade Evan Turner and his daughter Lillian. Comrade Turner and his wife have started a GoFundMe page, and it says, “Although unexpected and heartbreaking, the cancer was found early. The Doctors are optimistic that Lillian will respond well to treatment and live a long life. Evan and Rachel are prepared to do whatever they have to do for their little girl. https://vfwseattle.org/news/past-commander-pinning/ Wed, 26 Jul 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/past-commander-pinning/ Commander Pete Krawitz (right) presents the Past Commander Pin to Nestor Tamayao during the July business meeting July 6, 2017. Thank you for your service, Nestor! https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-members-trekking-in-nepal-invite-others-to-join-in/ Wed, 26 Jul 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-members-trekking-in-nepal-invite-others-to-join-in/ Enjoy trekking? Post member Russ Seelig is planning a trek in Nepal next spring and invites other interested members (and family members) to join in the fun. The actual trekking starts from Jiri, near Kathmandu, and winds up to Everett Base Camp and back to Lukla. So far, Harold and his son have signed on for the approximately four-week hike. It promises to be an interesting, and challenging, trek so if you are interested, give Russ or Harold a call to get more details. https://vfwseattle.org/news/july-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Sat, 01 Jul 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/july-2017-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s July 2017 newsletter is available for download here. Highlights include Commander Krawitz’s first column; Post Members Participate in Area Memorial Day Events; Redding VFW Post 1934 Goes Above and Beyond; Post to Host Shredding Truck July 8, Noon to 3 p.m.; In Memoriam; Spaghetti Raffle Flyer. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-and-auxiliary-officers-take-office-this-month/ Sat, 01 Jul 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-and-auxiliary-officers-take-office-this-month/ Post 3063 2017-2018 officers will take office this month. First nominations were made in March, followed by second nominations and an election in April. Installation happened in May but officers do not take office until the department commander is installed. Congratulations and good luck to the new leadership team! Commander: Pete Krawitz Sr. Vice Commander: Joe Tiffany Jr. Vice Commander: Joe Fitzgerald Chaplain: Bill Griffith Quartermaster: Harold Rodenberger 1-Year Trustee: James Williams https://vfwseattle.org/news/flag-day-2017/ Sat, 24 Jun 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/flag-day-2017/ Nestor Tamayao and Harold Rodenberger participated in a flag retirement service to dispose properly of worn flags in the post parking lot on Flag Day, June 14, 2017. https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam/ Sat, 24 Jun 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/in-memoriam/ During the June business meeting on June 1, 2017, the post charter was draped with a black cloth for the following comrades who recently passed away. The charter will stay draped for 30 days in their honor. James A. Kessler, U.S. Army, World War II Jimmie B. Souther, U.S. Army, Vietnam War Gerald L. Yager, U.S. Army, World War II https://vfwseattle.org/news/redding-vfw-post-1934-goes-above-and-beyond/ Sat, 24 Jun 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/redding-vfw-post-1934-goes-above-and-beyond/ By Jon Guncay On May 15, 2017, my family and I were in Redding, Calif. for a wedding. While visiting around the town, I happened into the local VFW, Post 1934. My son and I were looking at some of the photos on the wall when a picture of an Armored Security Vehicle (ASV) caught my eye, as it was my vehicle in Iraq. Upon a closer look, I noticed that the bumper number not only had my company’s number on it, but it was in fact MY exact vehicle from that deployment. https://vfwseattle.org/news/june-newsletter-available-for-download-2/ Thu, 01 Jun 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/june-newsletter-available-for-download-2/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s June 2017 newsletter is available for download here. Highlights of June’s issue include: Commander Tamayao’s Farewell Note; Post and Auxiliary Officers Installed During May Meeting; How to Gain an Honor Degree…With the Cooties; Service Officer Update: Get Your Documents in Order; New Yoga Instructor, New Time. https://vfwseattle.org/news/quartermasters-update-june-2017/ Thu, 01 Jun 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/quartermasters-update-june-2017/ By Harold Rodenberger I’m writing this update from the east coast of our amazing country, where my wife, Ikuko, and I are visiting our younger son and his wife in North Carolina. For those of you who travel, it’s no secret, but it always reassures me to travel to widely separated parts of our country and our world and observe yet again that people are pretty much the same wherever they live. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-and-auxiliary-officers-installed-during-may-meeting/ Wed, 24 May 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-and-auxiliary-officers-installed-during-may-meeting/ Post 3063 2017-2018 officers were installed during the May business meeting May 4, 2017. The following individuals were installed as post leadership: Ballard Eagleson Auxiliary President, Margaret Philips; and incoming Post 3063 Commander, Pete Krawitz, watch as installing officer and state junior vice commander Linda Fairbank, and outgoing commander, Nestor Tamayao, take turns addressing the audience during the installation ceremony May 4. Commander: Pete Krawitz Sr. Vice Commander: Joe Tiffany https://vfwseattle.org/news/yoga-new-instructor-new-time/ Wed, 24 May 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/yoga-new-instructor-new-time/ The post has resumed one-hour yoga classes on Wednesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. Classes are free to veterans and their families. Please wear loose clothing and bring your yoga mat and a blanket to cushion your knees, if desired. Alicia Brill Alicia Brill is our new instructor and is a veteran of the United States Army, having enlisted as an Intelligence Analyst for the Army Reserves and the Montana Army National Guard. https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-newsletter-available-for-download/ Mon, 01 May 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/may-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s May 2017 newsletter is available for download here. Highlights of May’s issue include: Post Elects 2017-2018 Officers; Post and Sea Cadet Corps Recognize Jessica Chacko’s Service; Museum of Flight Profile of New Member, Bob Drew; and Members Away From Home Profile of Georgia Warrix. https://vfwseattle.org/news/members-away-from-home-georgia-warrix/ Wed, 26 Apr 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/members-away-from-home-georgia-warrix/ Post member, Georgia Warrix, is currently stationed in Baton Rouge, La. The 1190 Transportation Surface Brigade, located in Baton Rouge, La., is my current duty assignment. The unit is an Army Reserve unit administratively controlled under the Deployment Support Command to sustain the current affiliation within the Army Reserve component. Operational control remains with the Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC); the Brigade’s Active component affiliation. The 1190 Transportation Surface Brigade’s current mission command consist of three battalions and 14 detachments. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-and-sea-cadet-corps-recognize-jessica-chackos-service/ Wed, 26 Apr 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-and-sea-cadet-corps-recognize-jessica-chackos-service/ By Alyson M. Teeter Pete Krawitz, Post 3063 Sr. Vice Commander, presents the VFW Sea Cadet Medal to Jessica Chacko, April 20, 2017. You may recognize Jessica Chacko’s name: she’s a high schooler who has volunteered with Post 3063 at the Seattle VA Medical Center and she represented Post 3063 at the district level for the Voice of Democracy Essay Contest, where she placed third. Jessica also serves as a petty officer third class with the U. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-elects-2017-2018-officers/ Wed, 26 Apr 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-elects-2017-2018-officers/ Post 3063 members elected their 2017-2018 officers during the April business meeting April 6, 2017. The following individuals were elected into the leadership positions: Commander: Pete Krawitz Sr. Vice Commander: Joe Tiffany Jr. Vice Commander: Joe Fitzgerald Chaplain: Bill Griffith Quartermaster: Harold Rodenberger 1-Year Trustee: James Williams 2-Year Trustee: Aaron Stoltz 3-Year Trustee: Russ Seelig 1-Year House Committee: Gail Engler 2-Year House Committee: Doug Maines 3-Year House Committee: Jordan Houghton https://vfwseattle.org/news/veteran-resource-fair-at-the-tacoma-dome/ Wed, 26 Apr 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/veteran-resource-fair-at-the-tacoma-dome/ https://vfwseattle.org/news/april-newsletter-available-for-download/ Sat, 01 Apr 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/april-newsletter-available-for-download/ Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s April 2017 newsletter is available for download here. Highlights of April’s issue include: What is District 2 and What Does It Do?; VFW Supports World War I Centennial Activities; Members Away from Home Profile: Sean Digre; and VSO talks VA benefits. https://vfwseattle.org/news/members-away-from-home-sean-digre/ Tue, 28 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/members-away-from-home-sean-digre/ By Harold Rodenberger Auxiliary member Sarwat Digre and post member Sean Digre. Post member Sean and Auxiliary member Sarwat Digre are presently living in Newport, Ore, while Sean is on a two-year sea duty tour with the NOAA Ship Bell M. Shimada. Sean receiving his BOCT diploma from Dr. Kathryn Sullivan, former Astronaut and Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator. Sean gained his VFW eligibility from service in Afghanistan. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-offers-weekly-yoga-class/ Tue, 28 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-offers-weekly-yoga-class/ Give your body and mind a treat by participating in a weekly yoga session at the post hall. The group meets on Wednesdays from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Bring a yoga mat, blanket to cushion knees, a yoga block if you have one, and wear loose fitting clothing. Yoga sessions are free. https://vfwseattle.org/news/the-auxiliary-corner-april-update/ Tue, 28 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/the-auxiliary-corner-april-update/ By Margaret Philips, Post 3063 Auxiliary President We - the members of the Auxiliary - are pleading with all current and past members both male and female to step forward and get our membership up…we need YOUR help. This is a great organization that needs everyone’s help. We wish to continue our great work helping all vets. In the past they helped us now it’s our turn to help them! https://vfwseattle.org/news/john-r-shrewsbury-world-ii-vet-passes-away-at-101/ Thu, 02 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/john-r-shrewsbury-world-ii-vet-passes-away-at-101/ John R. Shrewsbury, a veteran of World War II and post member, passed away at the age of 101 on Dec. 28, 2016. His ashes were interred at Evergreen Washelli inside the Doughboy statue. Photo of John and Helen Shrewsbury before World War II. In World War II, John served in England, France, and Germany after training at Fort Lewis. In his later years, he was a resident of the Norse Home in Ballard and post members would often pay him a visit. https://vfwseattle.org/news/officer-profile-gail-engler-post-3063-service-officer/ Thu, 02 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/officer-profile-gail-engler-post-3063-service-officer/ Tell us about your new position and what you hope to accomplish during your term. As Post 3063 Service Officer I help members and their family members file for disability claims and also try to educate and inform members about their veterans benefits. I am especially interested in making sure our senior and elderly veterans are aware of the Aid and Attendance benefit which can help pay for assisted living if they qualify. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-reps-attend-states-70th-annual-mid-winter-conference/ Thu, 02 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-reps-attend-states-70th-annual-mid-winter-conference/ By Nestor Tamayao The Department of Washington 70th Annual Mid-Winter Conference took place on Jan. 20 and 21, 2017 in Vancouver, Wash. Those who attended the conference along with me were Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger, Senior Vice-commander / Adjutant Pete Krawitz, Trustee James Williams, Service Officer Gail Engler, Assistant QM Joe Fitzgerald and House Committee member Doug Maines. The conference serves to provide updates to posts statewide and provide training opportunities. There was a post service officer training session, two phases of recruiting training and a quartermaster class. https://vfwseattle.org/news/the-auxiliary-corner/ Thu, 02 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/the-auxiliary-corner/ Here ye, here ye, the time has come when all good ladies and gentlemen need to come to the aid of their Auxiliary. We are looking for a few good applicants to come and join us to help work with and support our service men and women. Our group gets together at Post 3063 every first and third Thursday of the month. On the first Thursday we have our meetings at 5:30 p. https://vfwseattle.org/news/va-and-walgreens-team-up-to-provide-flu-vaccinations/ Tue, 14 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/va-and-walgreens-team-up-to-provide-flu-vaccinations/ The cold and flu season is upon us and the Department of Veterans Affairs has once again teamed up with Walgreens Pharmacies nationwide to allow all veterans who are currently enrolled in the VA healthcare system to be able walk into any of the over 8000 Walgreens nationally (and the Duane Reade pharmacies in the New York metropolitan area) to receive a vaccination at no cost. Vaccinations will be available through March 31, 2017. https://vfwseattle.org/news/officer-profile-bill-griffith-post-3063-chaplain/ Thu, 02 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/officer-profile-bill-griffith-post-3063-chaplain/ Tell us about your new position and what you hope to accomplish during your term. Last year our chaplain was unable to complete his responsibilities and I was asked if I would be willing to fill in. This year I was asked if I would like to continue as chaplain and I said yes. A concern I have as chaplain is connecting with those in our post who are unable to attend our meetings. https://vfwseattle.org/news/dod-extends-online-exchange-shopping-to-veterans/ Wed, 01 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/dod-extends-online-exchange-shopping-to-veterans/ Courtesy of Defense.gov The Department of Defense announced a policy change that will extend limited online military exchange shopping privileges to all honorably discharged veterans of the military. The veterans online shopping benefit will be effective this Veterans Day, Nov. 11. While shopping privileges exclude the purchase of uniforms, alcohol and tobacco products, it includes the Exchange Services’ dynamic online retail environment known so well to service members and their families. https://vfwseattle.org/news/caring-for-our-members/ Wed, 01 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/caring-for-our-members/ Gail Engler (pictured) and Harold Rodenberger assembled care packages Jan. 14 for the post's three deployed members. The packages included calling cards, ground coffee and chocolate bars, Starbucks Via, homemade beef jerky, homemade oatmeal raisin walnut cookies and peanut butter cookies. https://vfwseattle.org/news/theres-a-new-chef-in-town/ Wed, 01 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/theres-a-new-chef-in-town/ Kay Seelig is the new chef for our third Thursday socials. You may remember Kay from the great tasting spaghetti she made for some of our fundraisers. Kay brings a wealth of cooking experience to this new gig. She has cooked both as a hobby and as a professional and once cooked her way through Julia Child’s famed 100 Master Recipes from “The Way To Cook” in a single year. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-raises-1-2k-for-vfw-national-home-for-children-during-business-meeting/ Thu, 29 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-raises-1-2k-for-vfw-national-home-for-children-during-business-meeting/ During December’s Business Meeting, the regular call was made for VFW National Home for Children donations, but with a twist. An anonymous donor would match whatever amount members contributed to the pot. The pot made the rounds and Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger tallied the donations. Knowing that their contributions would be matched, members continued to chip more in while Harold counted and the final tally came to $620, for a grand total $1,240 donation! https://vfwseattle.org/news/local-students-send-letters-to-post-3063-veterans/ Wed, 28 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/local-students-send-letters-to-post-3063-veterans/ Third grade students from the St. Alphonsus Parish School in Ballard and 9th grade social studies students from Hamilton Middle School in Wallingford sent letters to Post 3063 for Veterans Day. Below are two letters from the stack. Enjoy! Veterans Day Letter from St. Alphonsus Parish School (3rd Grade), Ballard: Veterans Day Letter from Hamilton Middle School (9th Grade), Wallingford: https://vfwseattle.org/news/members-and-friends-celebrate-the-holidays-at-post-3063/ Wed, 28 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/members-and-friends-celebrate-the-holidays-at-post-3063/ Post 3063 hosted its annual holiday party during the December social on Dec. 15, 2016. It was a jovial event for young and old. More than a hundred members, loved ones, and guests attended and dined on free Prime Rib cooked by Marco. Ann Leake gave gifts to the children as Santa: she has played Santa for the past several years. Annette Russell played holiday music on her keyboard and the Top of the Hill barbershop quartet sang to the crowd. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-participates-in-wreaths-across-america-ceremony/ Wed, 28 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-participates-in-wreaths-across-america-ceremony/ The Honor Guard fires volleys during the Wreaths Across America ceremony. The Post 3063 Honor Guard, consisting of Joe Fitzgerald, Bill Hoeller and Harold Rodenberger, participated in the Wreaths Across America ceremony near the flagpole at Lakeview Cemetery in Seattle on Dec. 17, 2016. After the wreaths were placed honoring the five services, POW/MIA and Merchant Marines, the post Honor Guard fired three volleys honoring the veterans. Bill Griffith was in charge of the ceremony at Lakeview, as he has been for the past four years. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-voice-of-democracy-essay-winner-jessica-chacko/ Wed, 28 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-voice-of-democracy-essay-winner-jessica-chacko/ The VFW sponsors the annual Voice of Democracy essay contest for high schoolers. Jessica Chacko, a ninth-grader, entered at the post and won first place, which includes a $100 prize. She also placed third place at the district level and will receive a $100 prize. Her essay is copied below. Congratulations, Jessica! My Responsibility to America Ask yourself, “What is your responsibility to America?” All citizens have responsibilities as members of a family, as students, and as a part of their community. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-honors-its-world-war-ii-veterans/ Mon, 21 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-honors-its-world-war-ii-veterans/ By Alyson M. Teeter Post 3063 members, friends, and family gathered with some of the post’s World War II veterans to honor their service at the post’s monthly social on Nov. 17, 2016. Five of the post’s 14 living World War II veterans, along with two World War II veteran guests, were present at the ceremony. Members included Oscar Borchelt, Genaro Garcia, Herbert Leake, Al Linden, and Orville Mall, and the two guests were Richard Smith and Kristian Nielsen. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-members-distribute-buddy-poppies-on-veterans-day/ Mon, 21 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-members-distribute-buddy-poppies-on-veterans-day/ Gail Engler, Robert White, and Chuck Tuft distribute Buddy Poppies at QFC on Holman Road Nov. 11, 2016. Robert joined Post 3063 Nov. 10 and volunteered right away to help! According to VFW.org, “Before Memorial Day in 1922, we conducted our first poppy distribution, becoming the first veterans’ organization to organize a nationwide distribution. The poppy soon was adopted as the official memorial flower of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, as it remains today. https://vfwseattle.org/news/uw-hosts-post-color-guard-at-veterans-day-library-event/ Mon, 21 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/uw-hosts-post-color-guard-at-veterans-day-library-event/ UW Libraries held an open house at Allen Library on Veterans Day, Friday, Nov. 11, in conjunction with the current World War I-themed exhibit, “Washington on the Western Front: At Home and Over There.” The event opened with a color guard from Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063. From left, Harold Rodenberger, Joe Fitzgerald, and Bill Hoeller in color guard formation for the UW event. The exhibit features photographs, diaries, newspapers, letters and ephemera from the World War I era. https://vfwseattle.org/news/ballard-eighteen-becomes-ballard-nineteen/ Tue, 01 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/ballard-eighteen-becomes-ballard-nineteen/ We recently received an email from local writer and Ballard High School graduate, Jerry E. Smith, who is researching and writing a book on the eighteen (now nineteen) students from Ballard High School who were killed in Vietnam. A ceremony to add Doug Zeller to the Vietnam Memorial Plaque is scheduled Nov. 10, 4 p.m. at Ballard High School. The following is an excerpt from that email. Then Ballard High School student, Doug Zeller. https://vfwseattle.org/news/how-the-vfw-stays-tax-exempt-community-service/ Thu, 20 Oct 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/how-the-vfw-stays-tax-exempt-community-service/ By Harold Rodenberger Since our founding as a federally chartered organization in 1899, our members have worked to help veterans and their families, to further patriotism and Americanism, and to help our communities. Because these goals are part of our mission the Internal Revenue Service has granted us tax-exempt status under the provisions of Section 501 (c) (19) of the tax code. To maintain our tax-exempt status, each month we report community service performed by our members. https://vfwseattle.org/news/district-2-convenes-meeting-at-post-3063/ Sat, 01 Oct 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/district-2-convenes-meeting-at-post-3063/ By Harold Rodenberger From left, Officer of the Day Thom Fermstad, Commander Tiffany Bothell, Surgeon Linda Fairbank, and Quartermaster Richard Moore conduct District 2 business Sept. 24 at Post 3063. On Sept. 24 District 2 met at our post for its quarterly meeting and School of Instruction. In the Department of Washington there are 108 posts divided into thirteen districts. Our post is part of District 2, which also includes Rainier (2289), Farwell Roosevelt (2713), Vashon (2826), Blackburn-Aurora (3348), Burien (4314), and Seattle (6599) Posts. https://vfwseattle.org/news/voice-of-democracy-scholarship-deadline-is-nov-1/ Tue, 27 Sep 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/voice-of-democracy-scholarship-deadline-is-nov-1/ Each year, nearly 40,000 high school students from across the country enter to win a share of $2 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the VFW’s Voice of Democracy audio-essay competition. The VFW established the Voice of Democracy program (VOD) in 1947 to provide students grades 9-12 the opportunity to express themselves in regards to democratic ideas and principles. The national first-place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. https://vfwseattle.org/news/state-of-women-veterans-social-media-campaign-launched/ Fri, 02 Sep 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/state-of-women-veterans-social-media-campaign-launched/ The Department of Veterans Affairs published a press release announcing a social media campaign about women veterans going on now through Veterans Day. It aims to raise awareness about contributions of women veterans. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 1, 2016 State of Women Veterans Social Media Campaign Launched   WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is partnering with Women Veterans Interactive (WVI) to launch a State of Women Veterans’ social media campaign. https://vfwseattle.org/news/report-on-the-vfw-national-convention/ Fri, 26 Aug 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/report-on-the-vfw-national-convention/ By Harold Rodenberger Our National Convention was held in Charlotte, NC, July 23-27 2016. Four members of our post attended: Commander Nestor Tamayao, Trustee and Past Commander, Aaron Stoltz, Quartermaster and Past Commander Harold Rodenberger, and delegate Jesse Basher. This convention is the supreme authority of our organization, and as such acts through the delegates to enact and modify laws governing how our group operates. People are appointed as our leaders and enact various goals and programs for the current and future years. https://vfwseattle.org/news/report-on-the-vfw-state-convention/ Wed, 27 Jul 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/report-on-the-vfw-state-convention/ By Gail Engler Harold Rosenberger, James Williams, Gail Engler, and Jesse Basher attended the State VFW Convention in Pasco, June 22 to 25. A day before the conference started additional training was offered for post veteran service officers and quartermasters. I attended the all day VSO training which was conducted by Nadine Warren, accredited VSO in Yakima, WA. The training was very good and I hope to become more knowledgeable and receive additional training in order to provide services for our post members and anyone who may contact our post for assistance in filing claims or obtaining benefits. https://vfwseattle.org/news/awards-presented-to-members-for-many-achievements/ Sat, 23 Jul 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/awards-presented-to-members-for-many-achievements/ By Harold Rodenberger At our last business meeting held July 7th our post and members were presented with many awards. “I don’t remember the Post ever receiving so many awards,” said Commander Nestor Tamayao. Our outgoing commander, Aaron Stoltz, was awarded a Department of Washington White Hat for his selection as a member of the All-State Team. (The All-State Team is composed of commanders who have satisfied all the requirements for their year as delineated by state headquarters. https://vfwseattle.org/news/officer-profile-nestor-tamayo-post-3063-commander/ Sat, 23 Jul 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/officer-profile-nestor-tamayo-post-3063-commander/ This is the first profile in a series of profiles of the 2016-2017 Post 3063 officers. Tell us about your new position and what you hope to accomplish during your term. The position of Post Commander encompasses numerous duties and responsibilities in addition to its leadership role. A primary responsibility is to preside at all monthly meetings of the post and ensure that they are conducted in accordance with regulations, by-laws and applicable parliamentary rules. https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-volunteers-celebrate-the-4th-with-seattle-va/ Sat, 23 Jul 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/post-volunteers-celebrate-the-4th-with-seattle-va/ By Harold Rodenberger On the Fourth of July several members of our post visited the VA Hospital located on Beacon Hill here in Seattle. We took drinks and snacks and passed them out to the patients and staff. Some who were on restricted diets only took a can of diet soda but others had their choice of various goodies. The favorites seemed to be Slim Jims and fruit drinks. Volunteers display goodies they passed out to patients and staff. https://vfwseattle.org/news/wdva-july-news/ Fri, 08 Jul 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/wdva-july-news/ Below is the latest news from the Washington State Department of Veterans Affair’s July email bulletin. News from WDVA: You are Invited to attend the Korean War Wreathlaying Ceremony July 23, 2016 11:00am Korean War Memorial on the Capitol Campus Please share this invitation with Korean War Veterans, their families and community members who would like to honor our Korean War Veterans. http://www.dva.wa.gov/sites/default/files/Korean%20Wreathlaying%20Event.jpg Check out the WDVA Calendar for July Events https://vfwseattle.org/news/first-flag-retirement-ceremony-held-in-35-years/ Sat, 02 Jul 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/first-flag-retirement-ceremony-held-in-35-years/ By Charles R. Anderson On Flag Day, June 14, 2016, Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063 held the first flag retirement service in more than 35 years to dispose properly of worn flags that had been left at the post. It was a windy gray day with a threat of rain looming, perhaps appropriate for such an event. The flags were burned as prescribed by the United States Flag Code. The incinerator device was home-made by our Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger from half of a 55-gallon drum mounted on a piece of salvaged aluminum from an old post sign with wheels added for portability. https://vfwseattle.org/news/university-of-washington-world-war-i-exhibit/ Sat, 02 Jul 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/university-of-washington-world-war-i-exhibit/ By Lisa Oberg, University of Washington As we approach the centennial of the United States’ entry in the first World War (April 6, 2017), staff in Special Collections in the University of Washington Libraries are planning an exhibit of Seattle’s WWI involvement. The exhibit will be installed on campus in late August and will run from September through January, 2017. There are many stories to be told about the war and Seattle’s contributions from the Red Cross hospital, Base Hospital 50, organized by the University of Washington to the Spruce Production Division logging Douglas Fir for the first military aircraft. https://vfwseattle.org/news/loyalty-day-spaghetti-dinner-and-raffle/ Thu, 09 Jun 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/loyalty-day-spaghetti-dinner-and-raffle/ Our new Ballard Eagleson Color Guard started things off by posting the colors. They looked sharp and performed with precision as they brought the colors to the stage. Kay Seelig, as our Executive Chef, cooked up 230 servings of her tasty spaghetti sauce. Volunteers from her family and our post helped prepare salad ingredients, spaghetti and garlic bread. Chuck Tuft, a 48-year member of our post, and his family along with other volunteers, manned the serving line. https://vfwseattle.org/news/medical-marijuana-for-vets/ Thu, 09 Jun 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/medical-marijuana-for-vets/ As reported on KXLF.com (Butte, MT) by Jared Dillingham, based on a release from Phoenix, AZ, “Veterans could soon talk to their doctors at the VA about medical marijuana, at least in the 23 states where it’s legal” (which includes Washington). This development came about as part of a budget bill that was passed by wide margins in the U.S. House and Senate chambers on Thursday, May 19. Up to now, the VA has had a very long-standing policy of not treating veterans with cannabis. https://vfwseattle.org/news/fundraiser-report/ Sun, 10 Apr 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://vfwseattle.org/news/fundraiser-report/ Our St. Patrick’s Day Social was a resounding success with good food, good company and an approximate profit of $1,500 for our Post Relief Fund. The cooks received many compliments for the tasty food. From the Irish Soda Bread to the spinach salad, corned beef dinner and the bread pudding with whiskey sauce, the diners raved about the food and the service. Many thanks to the volunteers who put on this dinner.