C. Robert Arvin		VFW Post 2408
Honoring the Dead by Serving the Living with our comrades and friends

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News Archive

POW MIA Recognition Day

On National POW/MIA Recognition Day, which is the third Friday in September and this year fell on Friday, September 21, the Robert L. Carver Post 269 AMVETS and the C. Robert Arvin Post 2408 VFW came together to remember our nation's prisoners of war (POW) and missing in action (MIA). The remembrance ceremony was held at the Washtenaw County Vietnam Veterans' Memorial, which is located at the Ypsilanti Township Hall, 7200 South Huron River Drive, Ypsilanti.

The moving ceremony was moderated by AMVETS Commander Larry Abernathy and included a Missing Man Table ceremony moderated by VFW Commander Laura Honomichl. Members from both posts and their auxiliaries participated in the service. Members of the Willow Run Air Force Jr. ROTC were on hand to present the flag and scripture was read by AMVETS Chaplain James Stocker. The ceremony ended with trumpet player George Cravins playing Taps while observers released black balloons.

Three MIAs of Washtenaw County were recognized:

• David R. Wagener, Captain, U.S. Air Force from Ann Arbor, MI. Killed in action in 1973, remains identified in 1997.
• Robert C. Marvin, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy from Dexter, Michigan. Lost in 1967, body not recovered.
• Michael J. Wallace, Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army from Ann Arbor, MI. Lost in 1968, missing in action.

New Online Photo Gallery Available

Thanks to Google's new web photo album service, the Post has a new online photo gallery! If you have photos you would like to add, please contact laura@honomichl.org.

Election Results

The C. Robert Arvin VFW Post 2408 as well as their men's and ladies auxiliaries elected new officers for the 2007-2008 year in May, 2007. New officers were installed on Saturday, May 19 and begin their terms on Sunday, June 24. Election results are as follows: 

VFW Post 2408

• Commander Laura Honomichl
• Sr. Vice: Terry lamb
• Quarter Master: Mark Honomichl
• Adjutant: Chris Tramp
• Chaplain: John Sebestyen
• Surgeon: Frank Oleech
• Trustee, 1 year: Tim Willibey
• Trustee, 2 year: Al Baker
• Trustee, 3 year: Robert Robertson
• House Chair: Terry Lamb
• Service Officer: Rodney Hopkins
• Officer of the Day: Hal Hagadorn
• Commission Service Officer: Darwin Jordan
• Hospital Chair: Albert Toncevich
  

Men's Auxiliary

• President: Chuck Hurdon
• Sr. Vice: Keith Mathis
• Jr. Vice: John Murrey
• Treasurer: Shawn Baumgart
• Adjutant: Edward Chrislip
• Trustee, 1 year: Michael Galvin
• Trustee, 2 year: Dave Bruemmer
• Trustee, 3 year: Bart Derossett, Sr.
• Sgt. of Arms: John Coffey
• Historian: Joe Lucker

Ladies Auxiliary

• President: Colleen Wolfe-Duranso
• Sr. Vice President: Donna Baumgart
• Jr. Vice President: Linda Harrington
• Treasurer: Anita Berrey
• Conductress: Phyllis Kuchnicki
• Guard: Theresa Caudill
• Chaplain: Norma Gaedt
• Trustees, 1 year: Patty Bradley-Diehl
• Trustees, 2 year: Carol Sweda
• Trustees, 3 year: Sharon Barge

Post Celebrates Diamond Jubilee Anniversary

On Saturday, February 24, 2007 at the C. Robert Arvin VFW Post 2408 we celebrated the 75th anniversary of our charter. Many current members and officers, past commanders, and community leaders were on hand for the festivities. The celebration began with a presentation to our Voice of Democracy winner Jane Yang, who was gracious enough to read her essay entitled Freedom’s Challenge. She also thanked the post for their support. Post President Terry Lamb presented Jane with a gift on behalf of the post.

Post President Terry Lamb, Ladies Auxiliary President Judy Arnott and Men's Auxiliary President Chuck Herndon each thanked the post for all of their support and predicted a bright future for the post and auxiliaries. Dutch Jordan then read a history of 2408 Post Commanders which included Ernie Mansfield's efforts to procure our present post building and Bob Holloway's efforts to procure our tank, "Commander Bob." Finally, Michigan 6th District Commander Kirk Kennedy presented the Diamond Jubilee Award to our post. Afterwards, a fine meal prepared by our men's auxiliary and other post members was enjoyed by all.

Past Commander’s Greetings on Post’s 75th Anniversary

Past Commander Larry D. Abernathy (2002-2004) sends his best wishes to our post on our 75th Anniversary (1932-2007) and has posted a photo slide show for the use of our members and others who wish to share some of our history and memories. At our regular business meeting on February 12, 2007, the membership extended it’s appreciation to Larry for his thoughtful contribution and continued best wishes for our post.

 

Local Kids Create Valentines Day Cards for Our Troops

On Sunday, February 11, 2007 our local C. Robert Arvin VFW Post 2408 was filled with the children's laughter as kids gathered to create a Valentine's Day banner, poster and 13 cards to be sent to our troops in Iraq. Organized by Donna Baumgart, the kid's party was a huge success. Local Cub Scout Pack 283 Den 5 members Parker, Brian, Mark and Andrew performed a special flag-raising ceremony. Also present were Brianna, Jada, Evan, Madison, Devon, Ivy and Tiffany. After the work was finished pizza and pop was enjoyed by all.

Lincoln High School Senior Wins VFW VOD Competition

Created in 1947, the Voice of Democracy (VOD) scholarship program is an audio-essay contest for high school students in grades 9-12 that annually provides more than $3 million in scholarships. The first-place winner, who competes with all the first-place VFW Department winners, receives a $30,000 scholarship that is paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school.

Besides competing for the top scholarship prize, as well as other national scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $16,000, each Department's first-place winner receives an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., sponsored by Target Stores. The VOD program is endorsed by the National Association of Secondary School Principals' and is designed to foster patriotism by allowing students the opportunity to voice their opinion in a three to five minute essay based on an annual theme.

The C. Robert Arvin VFW 2408 in Ypsilanti, MI is proud to announce this year’s local and District competition winner is Lincoln High School’s Jane Yang and her essay entitled Freedom’s Challenge. Jane is a senior at Lincoln High School where she is currently first in her class. Jane's favorite subjects are math and science. She loves learning, but even more, she loves serving her community through a variety of different organizations. Among her extracurricular activities include editor-in-chief of the school’s literary magazine, coach or local Academic Games programs, Ypsilanti District Library Volunteer, and Secretary of her school's National Honor Society. Jane’s greatest time commitment is with the Key Club. Jane co-founded Lincoln’s Key Club with her sister, Lin, a former VFW Voice of Democracy State honoree, and currently serves as the Division 11 Lieutenant Governor for the Michigan District. Jane also serves as the Lieutenant Governor Chair for the Michigan District Key Club. She is also a member of the District Project Committee aiding the VFW National Home for Children, a project which she designed and implemented last year. Jane plans on studying chemical engineering next year.

Local Soldier's Memory Honored at VFW Post 2408

On September 11, 2006, Ypsilanti VFW Post 2408 was presented with a military shadowbox honoring Major Gerald M. Bloomfield II, who was killed in Iraq in November, 2005 while serving in the Global War on Terrorism. The box was donated by Major Bloomfield's widow Julie, who was very appreciative of a memorial donation from the Friends of 2408, Ypsilanti VFW post. Present were Major Bloomfield's parents, Gerald and Judy Bloomfield, their son and his wife Brad and Diana Jones, family friend Doug Bentley and niece Wendy House.

The flag that is contained in the box was flown over Iraq on December 20, 2005 in honor of the Ypsilanti VFW Post. The plaque inside the shadowbox reads as follows:

"Major Gerald M. Bloomfield II was born in Detroit, MI, November 15, 1966. He attended Eastern Michigan University where he received a degree in Math and Physics. He attended Naval Post Graduate School where he received a Masters degree in Electrical Engineering.

He served 15 years as a Commissioned Officer in the United States Marine Corps. He received the following: Purple Heart, Air Medal-Individual w/Combat "V" and 1 Strike/Flight Award Commendation w/1 Star, Air Force Commendation, Achievement, Meritorious Unit Commendation w/1 Star, National Defense Service w/1 Star, Iraq Campaign, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service, Korean Defense Service w/1 Star, Sea Service Deployment w/2 Stars.

"Beav" was flying an AH-1W Super Cobra when "Gunshot 66" was downed by enemy surface-to-air fire while supporting Marines on the ground.

Arvin Gym Dedicated

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY West Point Military Academy
The new 495,100 square-foot Arvin Cadet Physical Development Center opened on Aug. 13 with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Participants included (from left) Col. Richard J. Polo, Jr., Commander NY District Corps of Engineers; Ed Calamari, Sasaki Associates; Brig. Gen. William T. Grisoli, Commander, Division Engineers, North Atlantic Division; Nick Leo, Kokolakis Contracting; Congresswoman Sue Kelly; Lt. Gen. William J. Lennox, Jr., USMA Superintendent; Tom Dyer, Chairman, Association of Graduates; Congressman David L. Hobson; Hon. Geoff G. Prosch, Principle Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army, Installations and Environment; Col. Greg Daniels, Director, USMA Department Physical Education; Chuck Moseley, USMA Class of 1965 and roommate of Arvin.

The facility boasts new amenities such as an indoor rock climbing wall, racquetball courts and a wave pool. (Photo by John Pellino/DOIM).

2006 Memorial Day Procession and Open House

Post Commander, Matt David, American Legion Post 282 event organizer, Anita Berrey, and VFW Ladies Auxiliary President, Judy Arnott lay wreaths during a Memorial Day ceremony in Highland Cemetery. A Memorial Day Procession began on Huron at Michigan Avenue and proceeded to Depot Town for a short ceremony at the bridge and from there proceeded to Highland Cemetery for traditional presentations by American Legion 282 Commander, Carl Holquest, VFW Commander Matthew David, and others. The Lincoln High School band was present and provided an appropriate musical tribute to those who gave their lives for our country as well as taps immediately following the 21 gun solute. There were open houses provided by both the American Legion and VFW posts immediately following the ceremony.

Photos left of Debi Webb, Ladies Auxiliary to Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2408 and Ryan Webb, Men's Auxiliary to Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2408. Over the past year, both the Ladies and Men's Auxiliaries have provided much needed support to the VFW Post.

2006 Post Voice of Democracy Winner

Lin Yang is a senior at Lincoln High School where she will be graduating as valedictorian. She likes to explore topics in science and math. But her true passion lies in community service. Lin is a volunteer at the Washtenaw Red Cross and the Ypsilanti District Library. She is a member of National Honor Society and editor-in-chief of the Lincoln literary magazine, Almost Famous. In addition to starting and coaching an Academic Games program with her sister, Jane at Brick Elementary, Lin is also the student coordinator of the reading program. All of this stemmed from her involvement in Key Club. During her junior year, Lin and her sister chartered a Key Club at Lincoln where they were elected president and vice-president respectively.
Through her involvement as the 2005-2006 Michigan District Secretary, Lin was able to suggest that the VFW National Home be considered for the Michigan Key Club District Project for the following year. As a state honoree of the VFW Voice of Democracy scholarship, Lin was able to visit the Home last year. The generosity and spirit she witnessed spurred her to action. Recently at the Key Club Convention, the VFW National Home was unveiled as the new 2006-2007 District Project for all 110 Key Clubs in the state of Michigan.

Ladies Auxiliary Election Results

The Ladies Auxiliary elected new officers for the 2006--2007 year on April 3, 2006.  Election results are:  Judy Arnott, President; Carlene Murray, Sr. Vice President; Norma Gaedt, Jr. Vice President; Beverly Dawson, Treasurer; Donna Baumgart, Conductress; Theresa Caudill, Guard; Amy Mite, Chaplain; Debi Webb, Sue Jordan, and Carol Sweeda, Trustees.

Post Election Results

Post elections were held on April 10, 2006 for the upcoming year which begins July 1, 2006 or at the time the Department of Michigan Commander takes office at the annual State Convention which will be held this year in Dearborn at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.  Election results are:  Matthew David, Commander; Ernie Mansfield, Sr. Vice Commander; Terry Lamb, Jr. Vice Commander; Cliff Arnott, Quartermaster; John Sebestyen, Chaplain; Joe Jakab, Advocate; Frank Olech, Surgeon; and Tim Willibey, Bob Robertson, and Al Baker, Trustees.  The Commander will make appointments to other offices and committees prior to installation of officers which is expected to occur in May, 2006.

Men's Auxiliary off to a great start at 2408

The Department of Michigan officially recognized the Men's Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Post 2408 on May 9, 2005.  There were 30 charter members and the Men's Auxiliary has since elected officers and are off to a great start since that time.  The Auxiliary has conducted numerous fund raisers including scheduled dinners and other events.  Members have also contributed greatly to the post renovation which was recently mandated by our need to obtain a food license.  On April 13th, 2006 at the regular business meeting, members elected their first annual slate of officers who are:  Charles Herndon, President; Keith Mathis, Sr. Vice President; John Murray, Jr. Vice President; John Derby, Treasurer; Edward Crislip, Adjutant; and Jerry Fortin, Allen Arnott, and Gary LeForge, Trustees.

Camp Trotter Program 2005

Post 2408, Ladies Auxiliary 2408, Friends of 2408, AMVETS Auxiliary 269, sponsored fourteen children to Camp Trotter this year. We all met at the post at 8:00 a.m. on July 17th as Commander Matt (left above) provided transportation to camp assisted by Al Baker and Judy Arnott (Auxiliary President right above). Our campers this year are Justin Deisler, Tara Elliott, Brittney Kennedy, Taryn Wright, Katelyn Kline, Alexis Alexander, Tyler Robertson, Amethyst Weiss, Alyssa Cook, SamiJo Murphy, Elaina Martin, Cameron Shevrovich, C'Anna Hopkins, and Brandon Hopkins. Campers not listed in photo order.

4th of July Parade

Scholarship Awards and Ceremony 2005

On June 24, 2005, the Captain C. Robert Arvin Education Committee awarded scholarships to nine students from the Ypsilanti area. Over the past two years, we have awarded $13,200.00 to 17 graduating high school students who have demonstrated through academic and other accomplishments that the Captain Arvin's legacy will live on for those who demonstrate academic excellence, develop leadership skills, and perform selfless services to the community in the manner exemplified by Captain Carl Robert Arvin. Student receiving awards this year are Deanna Arrieta (Lincoln), David Butzin (Willow Run), Bethany Michowski (Lincoln), Robin Snyder (Ypsilanti), Katie Chapman (Ypsilanti), Austin Engel (Ypsilanti), Sarah Pusilo (Faithway), Susanna Phillips (Faithway), and Mallory Sherwood (Lincoln). Congratulations to all scholarship winners and our best wishes as you continue your educations and contributions to our community.

Our guest speaker this year at the Awards Ceremony was Joseph B. Anderson, Jr. Mr. Anderson. Mr. Anderson's life long accomplishments are just to numerous to articulate here but a few are: Military academy graduate (1965), two masters degrees, Army's Command and General Staff College, two tours of duty with the 1st Cavalry in Vietnam, aide-de-camp to two general officers, assistant professor at West Point, was awarded two Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars, three Army Commendation Metals, and eleven Air Medals. Was selected to be a White House Fellow as Special Assistant to Secretary of Commerce, and concluded a career with General Motors in 1977 as General Director over a business unit with 7,000 employees and revenue of one billion dollars. Mr. Anderson currently serves on the Board of Directors, Quaker Chemical Corp, Arvin Meritor, Inc, MDL Capital Management and Original Equipment Suppliers Association. He is a Director, Society of Automotive Engineers Foundation, Trustee, Boys and Girls Clubs of american and Kettering University. He is a member of Horizons-Upward Bound Advisory Board, and the Econiomic Club of Detroit. On behalf of the membership of the The C. Robert Arvin VFW Post 2408, the Education Committee, and the community we serve, we thank you very much for taking time from your busy schedule to make this awards ceremony a huge success.

Flag Day 2005 Celebrations

On June 14th, 2005 our the post and Auxiliary Unit 2408 conducted a flag day celebration at the Senior Citizens Clark East facility. The post donated new US and POW/MIA and Former Commander Matt David and Auxiliary President Judy Arnott, Bobby Rose House Committee Chairman and Al Baker Trustee presented a retired flag to Mr. Fred Arrington, the Oldest retired World War II Veteran residing at Clark Tower. Bobby Rose performed Taps immediately following the solute. Others present and assisting were The Reverand Calvin Brown who performed the Benediction, offeratory prayer for our troops and others in harms way and blessings on refreshments, the Willow Run Air Force Jr. ROTC commanded by Col Peter Buley, Boy Scout Troop 290 led by Troop Leader Eric Maes, Ypsilanti Township Superviosr Ruth Ann Jamnick, Ms. Fran Bredow and many others.

Memorial Day 2005

Memorial Day ceremonies at the Huron River Bridge and at Highland Cemetery were appreciated by thousands of attendees who lined the entire procession route and reflected upon those who have given the maximum sacrifice for our country and our way of life. Former Commander Matt David and Auxiliary President Judy Arnott (photo right) placed memorial wreaths in honor and remembrance. The post wishes to thank all of our members and other who helped make this year's ceremonies a huge success. In attendance were Former Commander Matt David, Quartermaster Cliff Arnott, Auxiliary President Judy Arnott, Auxiliary Jr. Vice President Jesslyn Stocker, House Chairman Jim Stocker, Friends Vice President Mike Hetzel, and of course those who staffed by post canteen and helped with the open house for the community. We also wish to thank PV2 Aaron Smith who took time from his busy schedule to join the procession with our post. Aaron is on active duty and leaves for Iraq in October following additional training. Aaron (photo right) with his two children at the memorial.

Eddy Crislip (photo right) serves up the Hamburgers and Hotdogs at the 1st Annual Golf Outing on May 22, 2005 at Green Oaks Golf Course. Thanks to Charlie Little, who led efforts to make the outing a success, everyone had a really great time and the post raised over $1,000 to help fund a replacement parking lot which is currently being designed by Ed Kubiski & Associates of Ypsilanti, Michigan. Over the past several years, the post has made temporary repairs by adding stone and waste asphalt; however, the time has come to install a permanent and well designed lot so that our members and their guests feel comfortable coming to the post. Some features of the new parking lot will include two dry wells to help manage run-off water, a hard surface with striping and curb blocks and yes, even handicap parking for those who have permits issued by the Secretary of State. 

Election of Officers and Installation 2005

Post officers were elected for 2005--2006 at the regular business meeting on April 11, 2005 and the installation was held after the regular business meeting on May 9, 2005. New officers pictured from left to right are: John Sebestyen (Chaplain), Christopher Brown (Advocate), Tim Willibey (Trustee 1), Justin Pelty (Sr. Vice Commander), Al Baker (Trustee 2), Matthew David (Commander), Fred Newcomb (Jr. Vice Commander), Hal Hagadorn (Officer of the Day), Clifford Arnott (Quartermaster), Rodney Hopkins (Adjutant/Service Officer), and Frank Olech (Surgeon). Not pictured here are Bobby Rose who will be the new House Committee Chairman, Darwin (Dutch) Jordan who will continue as our Community Service Officer, and Albert (Al) Toncevich our Hospital Chairman. Congratulations to new and re-elected officers for the 2005 -- 2006 year. We look forward to another great year and working together, the post will continue to grow through service to our veterans and their families.

Ladies Auxiliary officers were elected for 2005 -- 2006 at the regular business meeting on April 4, 2005 and the installation was held immediately after the regular post business meeting on May 9, 2005. The new officers pictured from left to right are: Theresa Caudill (Guard), Susan Hopkins (Sr. Vice President), Donna Baumgart (Chaplain/Trustee 1), Judy Arnott (President), Brenda Cervelli (Trustee 3 and installing officer), Jesslyn Stocker (Jr. Vice President), and Wanda Rose (Conductress). Not pictured but installed or appointed are Beverly Dawson (Secretary), and Rachael David (Treasurer). Again congratulations to all of the new and re-elected officers for the 2005 -- 2006 year. President Judy will be emphasizing working together to make our post and auxiliary among the best in the state and nation.

Our installing officers this year (photo right) were Ernie Mansfield (past commander 1984 through 1993) and Brenda Cervelli (past president 2003--2004). Ernie recalled during the post officer installation that on May 9, 1945 he joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars and this is his 60th continuous year as a member of the VFW. The officers and membership thank you so very much for your dedicated and continuous service to our post and the VFW. And Brenda, thank you so much for your extra efforts to make our Auxiliary a success over the years. We will never forget your contributions.

Guys are Gals Fund Raiser with Steak & Lobster Dinner Plus Karaoke

Wow! What an evening this was beginning with a full Steak & Lobster , Steak & Salmon, or just plain New York Strip steak dinner with all of the trimmings. Many thanks to members of the VFW, VFW Auxiliary, Friends, AMVETS, AMVETS Auxiliary, and the Marine Corps League for help in the kitchen. We wondered if our members and their guests would like such an idea but as it turned out 76 dinners were served. Either the food was great or the membership turned out to see our "Guys are Gals" fund raiser. Following the lead of other organizations like the Forty & Eight, we asked the men to dress in traditionally women's attire and obtain pledges to be donated to the post and specifically our building and parking lot fund. Photo to the left is Post Former Commander Matt David who led the initiative. The evening wound up with our home-grown karaoke with Rodney Hopkins officiating and playing just about any conceivable selection from our new karaoke CD collection. A big thanks, Rodney, for helping to make the evening a real success.

Interested persons can obtain high quality prints of this and other events by writing to the webmaster and requesting access to our photo collection at Shutterfly.com.

Post Children's Easter Party Breaks Attendance Records

Again this year on March 20, 2005 post conducted the annual Kids Easter Party with assistance of members of the VFW, VFW Auxiliary, Friends, Amvets, and the Amvets Auxiliary. We were expecting the usual 25 to 30 kids to participate in the age group events; however, a whopping 57 actually showed up and had a really good time. A big thanks to the Easter Bunny (Donna), Sue Hopkins and Beverly Dawson for Easter shopping, Bobby Rose for arranging a donation of the 52 Easter Baskets, and of course House Chairman Jim Stocker for procuring the pizza and soft drinks for all of the kids and other guests. As is our custom, some of the photos taken during this event are posted at the Canteen as well as online with our image partner, Shutterfly.com. 

Anyone interested in obtaining high quality prints of our photos should write to our webmaster requesting access.  Use of these and other information on this website is subject to our Privacy and Use policies.

Auxiliary Megabucks Event Huge Success

The Megabucks sponsored by our Auxiliary went off without a hitch. Dinner began promptly at 7:00 p.m. and thanks to our wonderful cook, Brenda Cervelli, the home cooked pork tenderloin meal was enjoyed by nearly 40 of the 60 people who participated in the Megabucks event. President Pam Abernathy began drawing the $25 prizes at 9:00 p.m. and by 11:00 p.m. all prizes were drawn. Prize winners were Matt David ($500 first prize) and Bud Forbes ($250 second prize). Other winners included Cliff Arnott, Harold Lawson, Gerry Fortin, Terry Quillen, and others. President Pam wishes to thank all who helped with the Megabucks event. To all of the Auxiliary members who either helped sell our tickets, decorate the hall, prepare the meal, or just plain helping us celebrate this major fund raiser, a big thank you. Also thanks to Charlie Little (Charlie's Karaoke) for helping us with the prizes and of course the really great music and his own terrific style. This event was licensed by the State of Michigan license number R78970. For questions about our drawing, please call the post at 734-482-6299.

Notice of election and authorization for VFW Men's Auxiliary

All post members are hereby notified that at the regular business meeting on March 14, 2005, nominations will be open for post officers. Nominations will remain open until the April 11, 2005 meeting at which time nominations will be closed and the election will be held. Also at the March 14, 2005 meeting, the post will be considering formation of a VFW Men's Auxiliary. The membership will vote to request that the VFW issue a charter for our new Men's Auxiliary.

Post to consider Bylaw Changes at March 14, 2005 Meeting

The bylaw committee, appointed at the January 10, 2005 meeting, will recommend changes to existing bylaws at the February 14, 2005 business meeting. The committee will receive feedback at that time and make final recommendations for change to be voted upon at the March 14, 2005 business meeting.

2408 Post & Auxiliary Entry Wins 6th District and State Fifth Prize

The Department of Michigan held it's 2005 Mid-Winter Conference in Lansing Michigan on Saturday, January 29, 2005. This annual conference includes the state's Voice of Democracy Awards and Banquet at which time the 15 District winners learn who the state scholarship winners will be and who will be selected to represent the State of Michigan in the national VOD competition. The post and Ladies Auxiliary are so proud to have sponsored Lin Yang (who was successful in winning the 6th district contest and also took fifth prize in the state competition. Besides any post award Lin (11th grade Lincoln High School) will receive a prize from the 6th District and has already won a $1,000.00 scholarship from the Department of Michigan. What a terrific presentation Lin has and we look forward to her continued competition in the C. Robert Arvin Scholarship contest next year. Please see our photos pages for additional photographs taken at the awards ceremony. This year's conference was attended by Former Commander Matt David and Ivette Giron, Quartermaster Cliff Arnott, Past Presidents Judy Arnott and Brenda Cervelli (First Vice President 2004/2005), Treasurer Rachael David, Secretary Beverly Dawson, and Guard Theresa Caudill.

National President's Homecoming

President Pam pictured right with National President JoAnne Ott while attending the National President's Homecoming at the Pvt. James Donovan Post 7910 in Dearborn, Mi. President Abernathy with Auxiliary Treasurer Rachel David and Secretary Beverly Dawson attended the magnificent dinner and festivities on January 5, 2005. Dearborn Mayor Michael Guido attended the function. National President Ott is well known as an accomplished singer and recently sang the National Anthem and other special musical selections during a patriotic ceremony commemorating the 118th Birthday of the Statue of Liberty on Thursday, October 28, 2004. 

The holidays of 2004 -- Happy New Year 2005 !!!!!

Following a terrific kids Christmas party (Tiffany with Jesslynn as Santa pictured right), the post hosted an old fashioned Luaucomplete with wonderful decorations by Eric Miller and Kristi Hall. We all ushered in 2005 in style and safety. 

Happy New Year to All!

Halloween in style at 2408

When there is an opportunity to dress up and usher in a new season or celebrate a holiday, we spare nothing to put our hearts and minds to work to make the occasion lots of fun and safe. Pictured to the right is Michael Hetzel, who we commonly refer to as "Mikey" helps the celebration along with a little Karaoke and DJ. Mike is the 2005 Vice President of the Friends organization. The Friends of the VFW is a separately incorporated organization dedicated to supporting the C. Robert Arvin VFW Post 2408 and sponsors various events throughout the year including fish fries, Karaoke, etc.

Post Offers Dues Online Payments

The post now offers members an opportunity to renew annual dues online though this site. Forget sending checks, and paying for postage and envelopes. Use the Dues Renewal link at the left and use your favorite credit or debit card to renew your annual dues. This is a free service to our members.

President Pam helps celebrate National Home Anniversary

President Pam Abernathy, C. Robert Arvin Unit 2408, on September 29, 2004, celebrated the 105th Anniversary of the founding of the VFW with the National President of The Ladies Auxiliary To The VFW, JoAnne Ott and Department of Michigan President Cindy Peto. The birthday celebration was held at the VFW National Home For Children in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. President Pam and her husband Larry are life members of the National Home for Children.

The children of the National Home put on a wonderful program thanking and honoring the Veterans Of Foreign Wars and all veterans. Accepting this tribute in the name of the Veterans Of Foreign wars was it's National Commander In-Chief John Furgess and the Department of Michigan Commander Gary Paulin.

Hot Rods and Heros 9-11 Ceremony and Car Show

The Friends of the VFW held a special ceremony on September 11, 2004 at 8:30 a.m. in honor of the heroes of September 11, 2001. In attendance were Mayor Farmer and other city officials as well as various Police Officers and Fire Fighters. The master of ceremonies, Eric P. Miller (Friends of Post 2408) opened events of the day and introduced Former Commander Matt David and Mayor Farmer who greeted all present with powerful and moving speeches that everyone present not only appreciated but could reflect upon personally. For a copy of Commander David's speech click here. Eddie Crislip, Commander of Sons of the American Legion, Post 282 Ypsilanti, Michigan gave the Invocation and Benediction. 

The ROTC Honor Guard performed the 21 gun solute and taps were by Bobby Rose (House Chairman). The post had invited the public to attend the ceremonies and car show. See our photos pages for several examples of the many vehicles exhibited by the Fairlane Club of America.

The post wishes to thank the following for making this event possible:

C. Robert Arvin VFW Post 2408, The Friends of Post 2408, AmVets Auxilliary 269, Michigan Avenue Animal Hospital, City of Ypsilanti, Fairlane Club of Ameria, AutoKrafters, Dearborn Classics, Dennis Carpenter Reproductions, National Parts Depot, Summit Racing, and Chett Hill/DJ Chett.

Family Fun Day August 21st, 2004

Again this year, the post hosted a "Family Fun Day" from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m., featuring many games for our kids (young and old alike). And as always is the case, the moon walk took the day for the youngsters. We didn't have a dunk tank this year but we heard nearly everyone say that it was to cold for the event anyway. Everyone had a chance to fish, play several other games, tour the tank, and the kids received a gift for their participation. See more photos.

First Annual Post Campout -- Pirolli Park

The post had it's first annual camp out on July 23rd through the 25th at Pirolli Park in Petersburg, Michigan. We thought we would do a test to see if the membership would enjoy such an outing and the response was tremendous for a first time event. We took along the post banner reflecting our seven participating organizations, and there was representation from every one of them. We had multiple camp sites with 29 people participating not including 5 pets which came along to enjoy the fun and companionship. Post Commander Matt says that this is one of the most enjoyable outings that he has attended in a long time.  Photo to the right some present are (first names only) Matt, Rachel, Cliff, Judy Phyllis, George, Crystal, Tiffany, Mike, Rose, Talia, Taylor, Donna, Eric, Krissy, Mark, Lora, Deven, Ivy, Mark, Sandy, Bill,Bobby, Tom, Rodney, Beverly, and Trent. See more photos.

Robert L. Carver AMVETS Post 269 hosts Toga Party

AMVETS President, Kristi Hall, hosts a "Toga" party Saturday, July 10th. We had a great turn out including our immediately past Commander, Larry Abernathy, Auxiliary and Friends President, Pam Abernathy, and several members of the VFW, VFW Auxiliary, Friends, and Marine Corps League. Decorations included real columns with ivy, and we enjoyed a variety of beverages and food. Thanks to everyone for bringing a dish to pass and helping us have a really great evening. See more photos.

Post awards scholarships via Captain C. Robert Arvin Committee

Following the Captain C. Robert Arvin Golf outing on Friday, July 2, 2004, the Post awarded five $1,000 and three $300 honorable mention scholarships subsequent to very careful review and exhaustive discussion of the 35 applicants from Ypsilanti area high schools. Awardees left to right are: Julie Wiedman (Calvary Christian Academy), Ghufran Alsheemary (Ypsilanti High School), Nicole Anguilm and Emily Stanski (Lincoln High School), Alisha Rayn (Ypsilanti High School) and Andres Domenech (Willow Run High School). Not pictured is Alisha Ferrell (Ypsilanti High School) who was out of the country.

 

© 2007 C. Robert Arvin VFW Post 2408	PO Box 970680, 616 West Michigan Avenue, Ypsilanti, MI 48197-0812	734-482-6299	laura@honomichl.org
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