After the briefing and tours, several of the state commanders attending the Big Ten Conference showed up and assisted Commander Joe's Post members in a hamburger and bratwurst cookout. Preparing food and serving approximately 50 veterans was an experience these State Commanders won't soon forget.
What we all enjoyed the most was talking to the veterans after their meal. The Recreation Aide in charge of this event told us that usually the vets eat and go back to their rooms. This time, almost all of them stayed until we had to leave to attend a Big Ten event later this evening. They thanked us more than we thanked them and it was a wonderful experience for all involved.
The big highlight for me was being able to spend time with a Navy WWII veteran, Mr Leo.
At 102 years old. Leo is as sharp as a tack and is a member of Commander Joe's post, Bellevue 2280.
Leo entered the Navy early and his first assignment was on a new destroyer that had not even left the shipyard. He began the war on it and was still a crew member at the end of WWII when the ship was sold for scrap. Leo recounted some highlights of his time in the Navy and at the top of his list was the sinking of a German submarine. They also engaged "3 or 4" more during his service.
I gave Leo one of my Commander's Coins and the look on his face says it all. I am so grateful to go to events like this and do the work of the VFW on a daily basis. Simply put, we are veterans serving veterans!
Mr. Leo
Several Big Ten State Commanders
Chatting after our meal
