VFW Names September #StillServing Post of the Month

VFW Post 5699 in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, continues to answer the call of duty. The Post cares for its community and makes sure veterans have the camaraderie and connections they need.

Post 5699 recently held a Poker Run event to benefit local veterans and they’ve hosted numerous mobile food drives for veterans throughout the pandemic, handing out essential items no matter the weather.

“We had a 13,000-pound food drive with hygiene items that we handed out to veterans. This was three days after a major storm. The rain didn’t stop any of the members from coming and handing out food,” said Lela Bremen, a VFW Life member and Post 5699 Commander.

“Then, we did a 12,000-pound food drive where we handed out food to members of the community.”

Bremen says the Post’s members and Auxiliary are like a family and they watch out for each other. They’re inviting people to social events and fundraisers while encouraging COVID-19 precautions such as face masks so that everyone can meet as safely as possible. They’ve also opened the building for health screenings and fitness classes, and extended their care and hospitality to local families.

“A child in our community has leukemia, so we hosted a blood drive and a silent auction. Double the amount of blood expected was donated, and we made several hundred dollars to give to the family towards expenses,” Bremen said.

The VFW is proud to honor the work of Post 5699. Thank you to every Post and veteran who, like Post 5699, is committed to a life of service and making a difference in their community.

Are you a veteran with a #StillServing story to share? Please visit vfw.org/StillServing and submit it today.