By HEATHER RUPPE
The Colleton County VFW Post 12102 in Walterboro has been named an “All-American” post for the fiscal year 2020-2021. Each year, the annual award goes to VFW posts who have high participation from their members in VFW programs and events, and who participate in community service projects. The award is also based on overall membership.
“The ‘All-American’ status is meant to recognize outstanding VFW posts,” said David Lies, quartermaster/adjutant for VFW Post 12102 in Colleton County. “’All American’ means more to Post 12102 than just a certificate or ribbon to go on the flag. It is how the post strives to serve the community of Walterboro every day,” he said.
Lies continued by saying the VFW’s motto of “No One Does More for Veterans” is more than words. Lies called this motto a heartfelt responsibility that all local members take seriously.
“Whether it is helping a Veteran make necessary repairs to make his or her home habitable, driving elderly veterans to medical appointment or just proving information about veteran benefits to fellow veterans, Post 12102 steps up,” said Lies.
According to Lies, the local post and its members also work with the youth of the community by sponsoring essay scholarships, such as The Voice of Democracy and Patriots. “We also support our Civil Air Patrol Cadets, the Ace Basin Squadron,” he said.
Additionally, the Comrades of Post 12102 serve on the Colleton County Veterans’ Council and assist with the county’s annual Veteran’s Day Parade and Memorial Day Services.
“If you are a Veteran who served in war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or in a hostile water and would like to continue to serve your community, come join us,” said Lies.
The VFW meets on the second Friday of each month at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Post, located at 1852 Jefferies Hwy. “If you are not an eligible veteran but have a family member that served, think about joining the Auxiliary,” he said, adding that auxiliary also meets at the same location.
