July 2014 From the Commander VFW Cruise Nights – July 11 thru Aug 29 Dear Comrades, It is hard to believe my first year has pasted and I want to thank you for your vote of confidence in re-electing me for a second year. This past year, the post along with its auxiliaries has raised money for the homeless Veterans, the Fisher House, as well as, college scholarships. We also would like to add that our Post Patriot’s Pen winner went on to win the State and the Post reached its membership goal of 100%. As I look forward to the new year I would like to place emphasis on increasing membership. Everyone probably knows a younger Veteran who is qualified to join. I would like to welcome 30 new members this year. I propose doing this by having some new events that are focused toward the younger Veterans and their families. I would like to host a bicycle safety course, and possibly work with the Townsend Police Department this summer. Also, this fall I would like to sponsor a home safety awareness program working with our local Fire Department. A special note to add - Post 6538 is proud to announce that our own Keith Jackson has been elected as State Surgeon. Congratulations Keith!!! If we can all take an effort this year by attending meetings, volunteering, and hopefully passing the torch on to the younger generation of Veterans. Have a safe Fourth of July. Happy Birthday to the USA. Back by popular demand – Cruise Nights at the Townsend VFW. Our inaugural year was a huge success and many patrons, members and participants requested we do the same again this year. So every Friday night starting July 11th and running through August 29th the Post will sponsor a Cruise Night with Live music, grilled Cheeseburgers & Hotdogs for only $4.50, 50/50 raffles and more. Participant will also be competing for gifts at the end of the season. This is a family oriented event so please bring everyone. Start times are 5:30 till dark. Bring out you Classic or Custom Car, Truck or Motorcycle and show them off. Come out and enjoy the camaraderie, listen to the music or just to have a good burger cheap. Sincerely, John Whittemore Keith Jackson Elected State Surgeon Congratulations to our past Post Commander Keith Jackson who was elected State Surgeon at the State Convention on June 8, 2014. It was a tough race but Keith logged hundreds of miles and hours making his rounds to every district, and many Posts, in the State to introduce himself and secure the votes. VFW Lawn Party – June 26th Even though it rained we still had a information table and good spirits. It’s time we get our faces back out in the community. If you are interested in helping at one of the lawn parties please let us know. L-R Paul Martin, Jr. Vice Commander, Russell Jobe, Adjutant. Dates to Remember 1st July – House Committee Meeting @ 6pm July 8th – Membership Meeting @ 7pm July 11th – VFW Cruise Nights @ 5:30pm July 22nd – Men’s Auxiliary Meeting @ 7pm July 19-23 –National Convention in St. Louis July 28th – Ladies Auxiliary Meeting @ 7pm