Sixteen guests arrived in wheelchairs with their attendants to the Post function hall on Junction Street, where members from the Post escorted them in for a sirloin steak dinner with all the trimmings.
Each guest received a gift bag from the Post that contained Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots memorabilia (courtesy of both sports organizations) and coupons for canteen services at their VA facility store and cafe.
VFW Post Commander Rob Meltzer, an Iraq War veteran of the Air Force, said: “We do this for our fellow vets to give them a good time away from the daily healthcare routine, and to let them know we appreciate their service.”
Vets playing Blackjack with Mel Donnell from the VFW dealing the cards.
VFW members differ from their colleagues in the American Legion because VFW veterans served in war, on foreign soil, or in a hostile fire zone overseas “We have members from the Second World War, Korea, Vietnam, Somalia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and both Iraq campaigns,” Rob said, “and we are always looking for new members.”
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post also supports local Needham Boy Scout Troops, and provides scholarships for high school students through the Voice of Democracy essay program, and supports the Needham Community Council and Center at The Heights.
The members of the Post, in conjunction with Needham scouting, place new US flags on all veterans’ graves each Memorial Day and participate in Memorial Park ceremonies every year.
