Veterans’ Brunch
Veteran Bob Neeley holds up a commemorative coin gifted to all attendees. Photo by Allison Sayer.
Allison Sayer
On November 9, the VFW Auxiliary hosted a brunch at the American Legion in honor of local veterans. In the toasty American Legion Hall, upwards of two dozen community members enjoyed a bountiful shared meal at the long tables.
After a blessing and meal service, family members read tributes to veterans.
VFW member Jay Paul, American Legion Commander Terry Keizer, and Sally Keizer enjoy lunch. Photo by Allison Sayer.
VFW Auxiliary President Brenda Becker shared that the VFW Auxiliary had been active in the 80s and 90s, but was defunct for a long period afterwards. In May of 2023, the chapter had enough members to be chartered again. VFW Commander Dana Becker added that Brenda Becker has been “doing the work of the auxiliary for years” by helping him with all things VFW.
“We help veterans and their families,” she said, adding that the chapter was seeking more members. She stated, “more members means more of a voice in Washington” to advocate for veterans.
VFW Auxiliary member Brandie D. Radigan asked those assembled to let the Auxiliary know if they knew of a veteran or a veteran family in need of help.
Veterans can also find American Legion Commander Terry Keizer at the American Legion every Wednesday morning with an open door and the coffee on.
VFW Auxiliary Senior Vice President Wendy Johnson contributed cornbread, VFW Auxiliary President Brenda Becker contributed chili, VFW member Jay Paul contributed beef stew, VFW Auxiliary member Glenna Dufresne contributed moose stew, and VFW Auxiliary member Lakota McRoberts and her niece Natalia White contributed cakes.
VFW Senior Vice President Wendy Johnson and VFW member Lakota McRoberts dish out stews and chili. Photo by Allison Sayer.
VFW Auxiliary Treasurer Crystal Killian created iced sugar cookies in the shape of dog biscuits in honor of the anniversary of the Marine Corps’ founding November 10. Marines are also known as “bull dogs,”
Door prizes were donated by: The Hub of Alaska, Dana and Brenda Becker, Glennallen Hardware & Lumber, Tazlina Trading Post, Casa de la Arte, IGA, Glennallen Hardware and Lumber, Heidi Becker, Copper River Auto Parts (Napa), Kendra’s Creations, Kenny Lake Mercantile, Dr. Vickie, Wenger’s Country Store, and Crystal Killian.
The National VFW Auxiliary has four contests open for submissions. The Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest and Three-Dimensional Patriotic Art Contests offer 9-12 grade students an opportunity to win thousands of dollars in scholarships. The National Illustrating America Art Contest offers gift card prizes for students in grades K-8. Students do not have to be related to veterans to enter.
Applications are also open for National VFW Auxiliary continuing education scholarships. Four $1,250 scholarships for college or vocational education will be awarded. Applications are open to current VFW members and their immediate family.
For contest information or more information about the VFW Auxiliary, contact Brenda Becker at 320-1553 or brenda_becker@cvinternet.net.