Remember those who served

The Gonzales VFW Post 4817 regards Memorial Day weekend as a time to remember all of those who served and died before them.

This weekend, the Post will honor its fallen members and those who have served with a couple of activities on the Post grounds.

On Monday, May 27, the VFW will host a short ceremony beginning at 9 a.m. to honor the memory of Post members who have passed in the last year. There will be a flag-raising followed by a short ceremony. At 11 a.m., the VFW will host its annual Fish Fry with serving lasting until 1 p.m. or so.

“We have been in existence for almost 74 years,” said VFW Post Commandant Dick Kuenzler. “We were organized on Nov. 27, 1945, just a few months after the end of World War II.

“We have had over 150 members at one time, but now we are down to 80 as we just can’t seem to get the youngers guys and gals to join — those who served in Desert Storm, Iraq or Afghanistan. We are not a political organization, and it’s all about trying to keep the memory of those who came before us alive.”

Kuenzler pointed out that the VFW Post donates to a large number of organizations, including the USO, the National Children’s Home in Eaton Rapids, Mich., Voice of Democracy, Junior ROTC, the Gonzales High School Shooting Team and Legacy Ranch to name but a few.

“We also donate to other posts who suffered damage due to fire or water, and we donate to veterans who may have lost a house or something catastrophic.

“Being a member of the VFW has nothing to do with politics — it’s about honoring those who came before us.”

Kuenzler said anyone who has served in a foreign war can join the post, and associate auxiliary memberships are available.

“I don’t think some of the young guys realize that if they have served in the DMZ in Korea, they can join our organization.

“I hope everyone comes out on Monday, watches our ceremony, and then gets some of our great Fish Fry plates.”