Quarter Master Clutches

'The more voices you have, the more people listen': New VFW leader wants vets ...

FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS -- The new command staff of VFW Post 8677 and Women's Auxiliary hopes its diversity in age, race and experience will bolster its membership.

"Back in the day, entire families went to the VFW to spend time," said Commander Dale Anderson, 48, of O'Fallon. "Now there's other entertainment, like amusement parks and soccer games. And the bulk of people who started this are gone."

Anderson, a Gulf War veteran with the Air Force, said a large, active membership is important to further veterans' causes. He encourages veterans and their families to join whatever post is convenient for them.

"The more voices you have, the more people listen and the more Congress will pay attention," Anderson said.

Patricia Little, recently elected as president of the auxiliary group, will start her term this month. She is the first African-American woman elected to the position.

Her husband, Willis Little, was the first African-American officer who served the post. He is a veteran of the Vietnam and Desert Storm conflicts, and was junior vice commander last term and quartermaster this term.

The Littles said VFW's around the world have treated them like family, and now that they're retired, they're giving back to other veterans.

The leaders also are trying to dispel misconceptions about the VFW: It's for more than just retired folks, it's open to the public, and it's a diverse group.

"We're trying to cherish the legacy our founders have given us, but also trying to be a bit more progressive in getting things done," Patricia Little said.

The Fairview post has about 250 members and the Auxiliary has about 147 members who pay dues, but many can't attend meetings because they're in other cities, getting older or have other commitments.

Anderson said the group plans to appeal to this generation of veterans by improving technology at the post. They're thinking about adding wi-fi capabilities, or reaching out to veterans via Facebook or Twitter.

Willis Little said he spent the bulk of his 25-year Air Force career overseas. When he returned, he felt like a foreigner in his own country. The local VFW posts were always welcoming.

"There's a warmth and a friendship when you walk through those doors," Willis Little said.

Patricia Little recalled the time when both her husband and son, who served with the Navy, were overseas at the same time about 20 years ago.

"I had two yellow ribbons around our front tree," she said. "It was lonely and it was frightening, and all you could do is pray.

FS: BNIB QuarterMaster 8-Leg Race Clutch w/Flywheel and HRB ...

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