VFW Post 5923 serves veterans from all generations, as well as the community at large.
The VFW is well-known for its service to veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam; now, veterans of more recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are being served by the organization, and one of the most valuable things they are finding is camaraderie. Members will also find a group of men and women who advocate for veterans while stepping up for their home communities.
Darin Keim, General Manager of Big Surf in Linn Creek, is one Desert Storm vet who recently joined VFW 5923. He “saw the need to carry on the tradition” begun by veterans of wars fought on foreign soil in earlier generations. Keim believes it’s time for “younger guys to step up and carry the torch.”
Keim also has a personal connection to Post Commander Ross Reinhart. Although the two men did not serve together overseas, they did work side-by-side, 15 years ago: Reinhart was employed by Keim. This past association has shaped Keim’s opinion of the current efforts to raise funds and complete the new VFW building, located south of Camdenton Middle School on Highway 5. Keim knows and respects the work of Reinhart and Post Surgeon Keith Lucas.
Keim also believes the VFW building will be an asset to the community. Several rooms may be rented through the VFW for community use to host meetings and gatherings. VFW facilities are used in many communities for large gatherings, and local leaders hope this building will become as useful for Camdenton.
The new, incomplete building is at a critical point. Funds raised to date are well below what is needed to complete the $600,000 project. According to the online records posted by VFW 5923, the Post is more than one-half million short.
Big Surf will be helping with fundraising. Other sponsors have stepped up for the Benefit Block Party on September 19 at VFW Post 5923, too. They are offering items for the event’s auction that include:
- A one-month membership at Abs and Glutes Fitness Center
- One-month tanning at Abs and Glutes Fitness Center
- 8-hour Boat Rental, Pirate’s Point
- 2-night resort stay at Southwood Shores provided by VRLOZ.com
- Gift certificates provided by Showcase Publishing for Tan-Tar-A, Shawnee Bluff Winery, Tucker’s Shuckers, Beavers at the Dam, Backwater Jack’s and Kwik Kar Car Wash
Other area businesses and non-profits have donated dollars. These include:
- Best Pest
- Hull’s Auto Body and Marine
- LakeExpo.com
- Mills & Sons Insurance
- MSW Interactive Designs
- Rock House Church
Those wishing to join donors and sponsors in support of the VFW’s mission may contact Post Commander Ross Reinhart at 573-836-2175. The community can also help by being present this Saturday, to participate in the family-friendly festivities.
