As the old adage says: “All good things must come to an end.” There is an end to everything, to good things as well. That sums up how I feel about my period in office as Post 3063 Commander.
During my tenure, I have experienced many “good things.” It was rewarding to see participation and involvement of comrades in various activities, events, meetings and socials throughout my time of command. The House Committee met and worked hard to make sure the post operated with fiscal responsibility. Quartermaster Harold Rodenberger worked tirelessly to ensure many requirements were met and ensured that the post was sufficient with day-to-day tasks. The Color Guard participated in events that not only fulfilled requests, but also brought favorable publicity of our post. Editor Alyson Teeter-Baker continues to put together a high caliber newsletter which enhances communication to the membership. There is increased member participation in District 2 meetings, Department VFW workshops and training and attendance at state and national conventions. All of this shows how involved and active our post is.
There were others who forwarded reports to Department Headquarters and made sure certain requirements were met. We achieved over 100 percent membership. These contributed to the post receiving White Hat status for the post commander and quartermaster, the second consecutive time this has happened since last year. My thanks to those involved.
While the “fun” of being your commander comes to an end, it is not the end of things facing the post. Membership continues to be paramount. We need to continually achieve 100 percent membership to mitigate losses due to normal attrition. We should ensure help for veterans, be it through visits at area facilities, at our post, or through services such as with comrade Gail Engler, post service officer. We need to continue efforts to attract younger eligible veterans to join. In addition to becoming active members, they can be leaders for the future. Our post’s infrastructure needs addressing and it is essential that our financial resources remain strong. The membership will eventually have to determine the best courses to take regarding these matters.
As I leave, incoming Commander Pete Krawitz will be faced with various issues that were not resolved or completed within my 12-month tenure as commander. However, I am confident of his capabilities and his military and civilian backgrounds will help the post continue as a vibrant and active post. I wish him well with his new position.
Yes, all good things do come to an end; but that does not mean the end of my involvement with our post or the VFW. There are many things yet to accomplish and I intend to continue to be involved. It has been an honor to serve as Ballard Eagleson Post 3063 Commander. Thank you for this wonderful and fulfilling opportunity.
Yours in Comradeship,
Nestor Tamayao
