I would like to extend my personal thanks to the members of VFW Post #8870 for your confidence by electing me to a second term as Post Commander. Early in my life, I was taught the importance of “serving” others. The lessons I learned from my parents and at Sunday School and Church were reinforced by President Kennedy’s challenge to “ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country”. There was never any doubt in my mind, that, one day, I would serve in the military, and it was a privilege to do so. Similarly, it has been a privilege to serve as your Commander.
Incredibly, my first year as Commander is over. Thanks to the dedication, hard work, and sacrifices made by many of our members, we can look back, with satisfaction, for many wonderful accomplishments.
- Record breaking collections for our Relief Fund through Poppy distribution
- Record number of new members
- Establishment of the Freedom Scholarship
- A second Teacher of the Year nominee to earn State recognition
- Organizing a public forum to honor and recognize Mike Reagan and his wonderful work with the Fallen Heroes Foundation
- Working with the City of Edmonds to establish a Veterans Park
None of these achievements would have been possible without the active participation and involvement of so many of you. Some of you stepped forward to accept leadership positions in our Post, for which we are most grateful. Words alone cannot express my sincerest appreciation for your willingness to be “Givers” and being “Part of the Solution”.
With your continued support, we can look forward to another successful year in serving the needs of our members and all veterans.
The views expressed in this column are solely those of the Commander and do not represent those of VFW Post #8870, its membership, or VFW.