VFW convention turns Wasilla red, white, blue

WASILLA -- The heartbeat of patriotism was particularly strong here last week as delegates from throughout Alaska gathered for the 58th annual Veterans of Foreign Wars men's state convention.

Events at Post 9365 began Wednesday with a memorial service followed by dinner and live music. The gathering concluded Sunday with a business session and installation of new officers.

Meanwhile, the 38th annual Department of Alaska Ladies Auxiliary VFW also held its state convention.

Men and women jammed Post 9365 Friday morning to hear an address from John Furgess, the VFW's junior vice commander-in-chief. He congratulated Alaska members for making their VFWs important cornerstones in their towns.

"The relationship you have with your communities is just phenomenal," Furgess said. "Please keep doing what you're doing because you're doing it right."

He joked about the special lure that drew him to Alaska long ago to attend his first national VFW convention.

"Those folks from Tennessee said, 'Come on, we're going to Alaska. They're serving salmon.' Well, they're still serving salmon and it's just as good today as it was 30 years ago," he said.

Also Friday, members got a chance to question a panel of Veterans Administration representatives on a variety of issues. Furgess called health care for veterans one of the government's prime responsibilities.

During his presentation, the junior vice commander-in-chief called for special recognition of those in the room who served in World War II as well as those in the Korean and Vietnam wars. Each group stood in turn and received a standing

ovation.

Wasilla mayor Dianne Keller was among those attending Friday morning's session. She thanked the VFW for its support of veterans in a letter printed in the state convention program.

"We need to remember this special group, especially now, for what they have given to our country to support and protect these great United States of America," Keller wrote. "They have supported us and continue to do a wonderful job for our citizens and I want them to know that we are very proud of them and appreciate the job they do for us!

"The city of Wasilla would also like to make a special recognition for our local VFW members and thank them for their support in the past and continued support to our community."