V.F.W. Post 10646
Lakewood - Rocky River
Meetings are held at the Lakewood Office on Aging, 16024 Madison Avenue
at the corner of Northland and Madison [Map]
7:30 P.M.
First Thursday of each month
Contact:
George Pieh
1434 Clarence Avenue
Lakewood, OH 44107
Phone: 216-221-0435
e-mail: gpieh@cox.net
History:
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States was formed by the Veterans of the Spanish American War (Cuba) and the Philippine Veterans of the same war, in response to needy veterans, because there was no organization to secure any benefits due to those who had fought. No medical assistance, no legal assistance was available even to those who had lost their HOMES and/or their jobs after they had volunteered to fight in this war. The centenary was celebrated in 2002.
Lakewood Post 10646 was chartered in 1988. The first meeting was held at Lakewood Public Library, Main branch. When the Rocky River Post was dissolved, their members were transferred to Lakewood and it is now the Lakewood-Rocky River Post 10646.
Purpose:
To assist the Veterans to maintain their rights and their needs, such as health, education, monetary assistance, and others. Some examples are: assisting with the clerical work involved with hospitalization, medications, home care, funeral services, etc. This includes securing the issuance of a flag to the family of a deceased veteran, the grave marker, honor guard at the wake and the burial. The National Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan is maintained to assist any orphans of veterans who may not otherwise be cared for.
Activities:
Memorial Day: Decorate graves at Lakewood Cemetery in Rocky River, take part as color guard in the parade, fire rifle salute at the conclusion of ceremonies at the cemetery.
Funeral services: At the request of family, memorial service at the funeral home, presentation of flag and honor guard service with rifle, salute and taps at the graveside.
Hospital visits: Including Soldier and Sailors Home in Sandusky, OH.
Americanism: Sponsorship of an essay contest on Patriotism. This is open to all 7th and 8th graders in any school. Awards are given to the best entry in each of the schools. The award winners are then eligible for regional and then national contests. Awards at these levels include scholarships of differing values. This process begins in December at the local level and ends later in the following spring with the national competition.
Political action: This includes lobbying at the national level to assure the continuation of legislated benefits.
Veterans Day: Cooperate with and assist the City of Lakewood administration to plan and execute the memorial services at Lakewood Park.
Social Activities:
These include pancake breakfasts, Lakewood Festival, Christmas party, dinners, and doughnut sales.
Links:
