Sep 25, 2008

To celebrate the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ 109th anniversary, Russell T. Scott Post 5993 and its Ladies Auxiliary are having an open house. Everyone is invited to the celebration on Tuesday, Sept 30 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at 402 W. Washington Ave., which is across from the Ava Post Office. At the same time they will be celebrating the 94th anniversary of the national Ladies Auxiliary, as well. The Post’s Honor Guard will conduct a POW/MIA “white table” remembrance ceremony, hearty refreshments will be served, and there will be door prizes. The VFW was founded on Sept. 29, 1899 to help secure benefits for veterans. Down through the years, VFW members have continued assisting veterans and helping their communities. Post 5993 and its Auxiliary members, proud of being a part of the local community, participate in many important programs and projects. In May, members prepare a Veterans Appreciation Dinner and attending veterans and their spouses, widows, or widowers eat for free. Proceeds from the Post’s Buddy Poppy campaigns go toward helping local veterans and their families in need with everything from paying utility bills to emergency vehicle repair. Their service officer assists area veterans with information on benefits and claims. The Post and Auxiliary support numerous local organizations, such as the DOW Camp, a summer camp for area youths; the food pantry; the Senior Center; and Project Lifeguard at Ava High School; and they participate in Make a Difference Day. Throughout the school year, they conduct several patriotic programs in local schools, and they sponsor two scholastic competitions for the students. The Post and Auxiliary conduct a variety of activities and fund-raisers, including their annual pancake breakfast in October and charity bingo. Post 5993 and its Auxiliary are always looking for new members. Currently, veterans joining the Post will enjoy free first year’s membership. For more information, call 683-6741.