A Lifetime of Serving Mankind

U.S. Army veteran James Reese Beaty is #StillServing with VFW Post 6089 in Anderson, South Carolina.

Beaty is a VFW Life member who serves as Post 6089 Adjutant, Quartermaster and Service Officer. He’s dedicated to caring for veterans and being a positive influence in his community.

For more than 20 years, Beaty has worked with young people to help them face challenges in life. This has included jobs with the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center and the Anderson County Alternative School and involvement with local organizations.

“I serve as the Principal/Director for Lyndon’s Academy of the Arts ‘M.A.D.D. Talent’ summer program for music, art, dance and drama,” said Beaty.

“It was developed to give students an alternative to sports programs and touch on their creative side. This program also offers academic tutoring and a writer’s guild.”

In 2012, Beaty served as Post Commander after taking on an initiative to keep Post 6089 from closing. He’s continued to promote the Post through his various roles and helps them collect donations to fund projects and items for their food bank.

Beaty also launched Operation Restore Hope, a fundraiser that ensures the Post can offer practical support to veterans with disabilities or those who are homeless. The funds provide wheelchairs, wheelchair pillows, food and assistance with utilities after a team confirms the need.

“I work two full time jobs and still serve our veterans. I love what the VFW does to help our veterans and the community. I am so glad to be a part of the VFW,” Beaty stated.

Military service, including a deployment during Operation Desert Storm, gave Beaty a deep appreciation for everyone who wears the nation’s uniform and makes sacrifices to protect our freedom. He feels giving back to fellow veterans and the Anderson County community is his ongoing mission.

“The VFW is a communications network for veterans who feel lost and need help. This is why I’m proud to say, ‘I am the VFW,’” said Beaty.

“I am the VFW because serving our country doesn’t end with your time in service. It’s a lifetime of serving mankind.”

To find out more about the VFW’s #StillServing campaign or to share your story, visit vfw.org/StillServing.