Throughout the pandemic and all its uncertainty, Commander Donn Kegel’s energy and vision have helped to strengthen and guide VFW Post 2423, located in Indian Trail, North Carolina. From sponsoring fundraisers and safely hosting events and blood drives to offering vital support to its members, the Post has accomplished much to be proud of in recent months.
As life changed, seemingly overnight, the Post remained committed to caring for and communicating with its members, even from a distance. Ensuring no veteran was forgotten, The Post Honor Guard continued funeral events each month and even performed a home drive by to salute a WWII veteran member in his final days.
With a focus on veteran’s mental health, the Post launched “Chaplain’s Corner” for the month of September, which is Suicide Prevention Month. Veterans throughout the community were invited to hear from guest speakers and find vital support.
Other initiatives kept the Post busy, too. To raise community awareness around veteran issues and recruit new members, Commander Kegel instituted a joint Veteran’s and Memorial Day event in partnership with American Legion Post 458 and the town of Indian Trail.
Between car shows, cookouts, bowling tournaments, and more, significant funds were raised to install a bench in the Post’s Memorial Garden, honoring a member who was severely wounded in service.
The Red Cross was invited to host its monthly blood drives, rent-free, from the Post’s Veterans Hall. And with help from volunteers, Post and Auxiliary members assembled 285,000 "Buddy®" Poppies.
In the face of unprecedented challenges, Post 2423 stepped up courageously for its community. The VFW is proud to honor its work and each of its members who are #StillServing.
If you’re a veteran with a #StillServing story to share, we want to hear from you.