BEZALEL honors this Memorial Day by spotlighting a VFW post in the city of Hawthorne, CA. Our team had the unique and special chance to visit the post and meet and speak with Senior Commander Roger Morrissey (on the right) and Chaplain Elbert (Al) Collins (on the left).

Warmly welcomed, BEZALEL witnessed and experienced inside-look into the VFW and its noble purposes to help fellow veterans. Here's what we found out.

Most active Veterans at VFW are from WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War and some from the wars of the Middle East. Many VFW’s have closed or merged with another VFW.

Along with social and cultural changes, Veteran values and desire to belong to military organizations have changed as well.

The chaplain shared some general concerns: "We need to engage youth and increase activity and memberships. The VFW needs support; rather than city, state, and federal taxation, more of those monies need to go to veterans who are in need."

Commander Roger shared: "Memorial Day is not a holiday for veterans. Memorial Day is a day to recognize all those who didn't come back."

The purposes of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States are fraternal, patriotic, historical, charitable, and educational.

Purpose of VFW

*Preserve and strengthen comradeship among its members
*Assist worthy comrades
*Perpetuate the memory and history of our dead
*Assist their surviving spouses and orphans
*Maintain true allegiance to the Government of the United States of America, and fidelity to its institutions of American freedom
*Preserve and defend the United States from all her enemies

Mission of VFW

*Foster camaraderie among United States veterans of overseas conflicts
*Serve our veterans, the military, and our communities
*Advocate on behalf of all veterans

Vision of VFW

Ensure that veterans are respected for their service, always receive their earned entitlements, and recognized for the sacrifices they and their loved ones made on behalf of this great country.

Core Values of VFW

* Always put the interests of our members first
* Treat donors as partners in our cause
* Promote patriotism
* Honor military service
* Ensure the care of veterans and their families
* Serve our communities
* Promote a positive image of the VFW
* Respect the diversity of veteran opinions

BEZALEL thanks the VFW post in Hawthorne and Head Commander Roger and Chaplain Al for their time in teaching us about the value of human life and the proper recognition of it.

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