Commander in Chief Hal's Homecoming!

 I traveled to Portsmouth, Virginia to attend Chief Hal’s Homecoming,  It was originally scheduled for a year ago, after his election as CIC, but was cancelled and moved several times because of COVID restrictions.  I’d call it more of a Coming Home rather than a Homecoming, but nevertheless here we are!  And yes, I was here just a few short weeks ago!

This event is usually held to kick off the beginning of the year for the Chief and the State Commanders who will be serving with him, as well as other well wishers and such.  There were tours folks could take and of course plenty of time to gather and socialize.  It’s a bit odd this year since the State Commanders in attendance are all PAST State Commanders now, but hey, it’s tradition, right?

While Mama and I didn’t go on any of the organized tours, we did visit several posts on our own and I’ve already told you about them in separate blogs shots. I spent Saturday afternoon with Chief Hal and we took a windshield tour of Langley AFB and Fort Monroe.  Very interesting places and I could have spent more than a day exploring the old Fort and it's amazing history!  After that we went to his own Post and enjoyed some time with his Post members, just relaxing.  Great Post and they have done a TON of work remodeling.  And they are so proud of Hal!

Friday was a tailgate themed buffet, with everyone wearing their favorite jersey.  I took the high road and wore current State Commander Butch’s [very bright orange] Command shirt.  After all, I’m in Virginia, why wouldn’t I cheer on the home team!  It’s much safer that way when you’re around some very “enthusiastic” sports fans. But, speaking of safer, when you’ve got a group of rowdy sports fans and an open bar it’s probably not the best idea to decorate the tables with small rubber footballs and baseballs.  ‘Nuff said!  Many people said great things about Hal and he deserves them all.  He was a leader in a very difficult year and he exuded poise, style, and grace throughout.  The VFW as a whole was fortunate to have him at the helm as our Covid Commander.

Saturday evening came and there was another dinner, where the uniform of the day was the homecoming shirt.  Not sure when I’ll wear that again, but I gave it a good workout that night to get my money’s worth out of it.  Among some highlights, the Virginia VFW Riders presented a check in the amount of $20,000 for the Vander Clute Memorial Ride.  All of this money goes to our Programs to help veterans and their families.  Way to go Virginia Riders!

Sunday morning came early with an 0500 [yes, you read that right] flight. Mama was a trooper and actually stayed awake until we got on the plane for the first leg.  After that, well, all bets were off.  And now, it’s time to concentrate on the present and continue doing the great work of the VFW.  We are not a “year to year” organization.  Since 1899 the VFW has been fighting for veterans and their families and we will continue to do so well into the future!

Tropical Storm Elsa gave us some beautiful night skies from our room overlooking Portsmouth

Hal's Post, named for Ruppert L. Sargent of Hampton, VA, first black officer to be a Medal of Honor Recipient

A cozy social area at the Post.  The remodeling looks fantastic!

$20,000...that's a lot of dedication, time, and effort by these Riders

Same hotel, same fascinating view, same boats...Just the 17th floor this time.  

Crowds at 0300!  It just got worse after that.  Yes, the skies are open again!