Today, we are hosting Air Force Veteran Jay Miralles, as he podcasts from our VFW Post 2503. The topic is military service. We have eleven people scheduled today. Our mission began about zero dark thirty. Pretty early for a Sunday, but between the coffee and Jay’s enthusiasm, I’m ready to take on the world!
In these times, we are seeing some of our national and local history changed to be friendlier, kinder, and vanilla. War and it’s effects on our soldiers cannot be sanitized. We aren’t asking the Veterans about things like body count, that is not the intent. There are other forums where you can view that.
We are interested in the people and their lives. Asking about Patriotism. They can talk about anything they want. We are avoiding topics that may be upsetting. Honor, Integrity, and Service are topics, as are what is one of your best memories of being taught a lesson? All our sons and daughters can reflect on their love of America, their belief in our military, and the mission they promote as veterans. I feel honored to see this interaction and these beliefs being lived every day.
Why volunteer here? Our friends Lenny and Kris invited us on a Hamburger Night, and the Babe became a member. He joined the Honor Guard and was asked to run for Quartermaster. He has done great things in the role, his business knowledge has been helpful. His suggestion to refresh the building’s rental rooms made a tremendous difference. The Canteen has yet to be refreshed as we look forward to the 90th Anniversary of existence.
Being an Auxiliary member is something I felt was necessary to show support to my husband. I didn’t realize as time went on the scope changed dramatically. Being the Webmaster is a challenge some days. This year, we will expand our social media presence, with more on Twitter and Instagram. I will also find a backup for that role, and rely on that person for more day to day work. There is always room for participation.
Working in the kitchen on a crew exposes you to some good people. We have some teams who have been together for years. One thing I’ve noticed here is deep friendships are not only possible but very probable. Everyone is welcome. It’s a place where widows feel comfortable to enter and leave at will. We watch out for each other. As we lose people, we make new friends and continue sharing the memories of our fallen comrades. I have a tshirt that reads:
Being a Wife is a Choice
Being the Wife of a Veteran
is a Privilege
As we continue this special day of interviewing and preserving important history, think about if you’d like to reach out into our community and help others. It’s a wonderful thing. And you will feel good making someone else’s life better. Let’s see each other tomorrow!