Veterans of Foreign Wars – Hayes Post 988
Senior Vice Commander Richard Law of the VFW Post in Valparaiso had many heartfelt words to say about the VFW and Veterans alike. Richard claims that the entire goal of VFW is not only to confide at a national level, but to reach into the grass roots of the community and offer exposure to families of Veterans as well. Our very own Valparaiso Post collects donations year round and sends all of the money to the National Home Benefit for Families of Veterans. National Home is an organization in Michigan that provides food, clothing, and a K-12 education for families of Veterans for no charge. Richard stated that the National Home is just one of the things that the VFW does to help out on the overall picture and create awareness of a worthy cause.
The VFW also holds several events year round to help the community remember those who have served this country. Throughout the year, events such as Christmas for the Children, an Easter Egg Hunt, and a magic show are held at the VFW. They also have several sponsored dinners with a sort of “come on and bring the whole family!” attitude. Richard stated that all of the donations for these events go to the National Home in Michigan.
Our specific Hayes Post in Valparaiso is named after Delbert Bob Hayes who served in WWII. Hayes died in a tragic glider accident during the war in 1945. His picture and all of his medals are proudly displayed at the VFW along with the awards and names of several other Veterans. Beneath his picture is a wonderful roped-off display of the POW-MIA table to honor those who died in service. At first glance, the table appears to be any normal dinner table. However, after reading the framed description on the table, you will find that everything on the table has meaning and honors those who died for our freedom.
For Memorial Day, Richard and the VFW have a special service to honor our Veterans. “Typically, the Commander will read a prepared statement and then we have the flag ceremony and eat cake and ice cream. This is mainly just for the people to get together and remember Veterans. That is simply what we are here for and what we do.” Richard could not say it any better than that. This Memorial Day, take time to think about and thank those who have served or are serving for our freedom. It is because of them that we are able to have a three day weekend and live freely in this country.