Grand Island VFW Post 9249

Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post #9249
2005
2121 Grand Island Blvd.
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Commander - Dan McMahon

Veterans Of Foreign Wars Official Web Site
Veterans Administration Official Web Site
325th Glider Infantry Association Web Site
Charles N. DeGlopper - Web Site

VFW Officers 2005-2006: Commander Daniel B. McMahon, Senior Vice-Commander Larry (Butch) Backlund, Jr., Junior Vice-Commander Damon Wright, Quartermaster Richard Lozo Sr., Surgeon Jack Thompson, Judge Advocate Joe Synakowski, Chaplain Michael Rogan, Trustees Jim Skindell, Jerry Korzen, Dave Clayton and Adjutant Dennis Carder.
VFW Ladies Auxiliary Officers 2005: President Kathie Blake, Senior Vice-President Sue McMahon, Junior Vice-President Diana DeMarco, Secretary Linda Lozo, Treasurer Kathy Mehltretter, Chaplain Terri Majewicz, Guard Rosemary Wojick, and Conductress Liane Dahlberg, Trustee Joanne Lozo
VFW Mens Auxiliary Officers 2005: President Daniel Sexton, Senior Vice President Richard Lozo, Jr., Junior Vice President Steve DeMarco, Treasurer Bruce Wojick, Sr., Secretary Pat Patterson, Chaplain Don Tranter, Guard Mark Gollwitzer, and Trustees Dave Brice (1-year) and Gary Kratz (2-year).

VFW Hosts Pearl Harbor Remembrance - Recognizes Overseas Care Package Helpers - 2005

(left photo) Joe Synakowski, Commander Dan McMahon, Supervisor Peter McMahon with JROTC of South Park High School, Buffalo
(right photo) VFW 9249 Honor Guard under the direction of 1SGT Dennis Carder

(left) Joe Synakowski, acting chaplain - Participants in the "Care Packages For the Troops" project include (left) Joe Synakowski (VFW), Joe Stefaniak (VFW), Robert Soluri (American Legion), Chairman Lee Dahlberg, Commander Dan McMahon (VFW), Town Councilwoman Mary Cooke, Bert Payne (DAV) and George DeGlopper (American Legion)
Richard Lozo, Sr. photos - Click photo for larger view
   The Charles N. DeGlopper V.F.W. Post #9249 hosted a Pearl Harbor Day remembrance on a cold Wednesday, December 7, 2005 at noon. Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, reflecting on December 7th 1941, 64 years ago, said that not only did our service men and women die during the attack on Pearl Harbor, but innocent civilians also lost their lives that day. He asked those attending to pray for the service personnel on foreign soil fighting to preserve the freedom of the United States. "Though the number of WWII veterans is declining, we need to keep December 7th 1941 in the classroom and at home and everyone should bring one more person to the services next year," the supervisor said.
   During a reception in the VFW Post #9249, those in attendance and responsible for sending Care Packages to the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan were recognized for their efforts in boosting the morale of our troops overseas. Special recognition goes to the chairman, Lee Dahlberg.
   Members of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249, its Auxiliaries, and members of the Grand Island American Legion Post 1346 and the DAV Chapter 168 have contributed towards this worthwhile project. Donations are accepted at the VFW Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd., after 10 a.m. daily. Perishables cannot be accepted.

Sarah Neville Is District 6 Patriot's Pen Winner - 2005
   Sarah E. Neville of Timberlink Drive is the District 6 winner in the Patriot's Pen competition. Her entry was selected the best of all entries and is being forwarded to the Department (State) Level where it will be judged along with one entry from the other seven districts in the state.

VFW Pearl Harbor Day Memorial Service - 2005

   The PFC Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post #9249 Veterans of Foreign Wars invites the community to a Pearl Harbor Day Memorial Service at noon on Wednesday, December 7, 2005 at the post flag, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. The public is invited to honor those who perished December 7, 1941 during the attack on Pearl Harbor and the United States Territories. The program will include a welcome by Post Commander Dan McMahon, remarks by Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, a Salute to the Fallen by the Post Color Guard, and Taps by Grand Island High School musicians. The public is invited inside the Post for coffee and cake after the service.
   "God bless and keep them. Let's not forget."

Island Student Is Local Patriot's Pen Winner - 2005
   Sarah E. Neville of Timberlink Drive is the Erie County VFW Council winner in the annual Patriot's Pen contest. Judged the best from those entries submitted to the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249, Sarah's entry, along with one entry from each of other County VFW posts, was then submitted to the Erie County VFW Council. Her winning entry will now be sent to the VFW District for a four-county judging.
   Each VFW District will select only one winner from their district to be sent on to the Department (state) level competition. One entrant from each state will be forwarded to the national level.
   Patriot's Pen competition gives 6th, 7th and 8th grade students the opportunity to express their opinion on a patriotic theme and improve their writing skills, while they compete for worthwhile awards and prizes. Department (state) winners compete for $67,000 in U.S. Savings Bonds at the national level with the winner receiving a $10,000 U.S. Savings Bond. The prizes are presented during the VFW/Ladies Auxiliary Community Service Conference in Washington, D.C., in March each year.

VFW Serves Cake For U.S. Marine Corps Birthday - 2005

Dan McMahon Photo

Molly Powers Photo - click for larger view.
(Left) Senior Vice Commander VFW Post 9249 Larry (Butch) Backlund USMC '68-70, Purple Heart recipient; John Blake USMC '66-69 Purple Heart recipient; Commander VFW Post 9249 Dan McMahon; Roland Powers USMC '61-65; Past Commander Mike Cutini USMC 67-70 Purple Heart recipient.
    Members of the VFW Post 9249 enjoyed a beautiful birthday cake, served at the post in honor of the 230th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps formation on November 10, 1775.

VFW Ladies Offer Hot Turkey Sandwich Day - 2005
   The Ladies Auxiliary of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 will offer a Hot Turkey Sandwich Day Saturday, November 19, 2005 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. or until gone.
   Plate will include turkey sandwich w/homemade gravy, cranberry sauce, and chips. Choice of coffee or tea are in included for $5.00. Take out is available. Proceeds to benefit VA Hospital's Holiday Dinner. There will be five handmade turkey baskets raffled beginning at 5 p.m. For more information, call the Post at 773-6343.

Island Groups Recipients Of Vet's Hospital Volunteer Services Awards 2005
   The Veteran's Hospital Volunteer Services awards and appreciation dinner was held in the Hearthstone Manor, Wednesday evening, October 19, 2005. The Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 its Auxiliary, the Grand Island American Legion Post #1346 and the Grand Island DAV Chapter 168 received awards for their continued support and assistance to the Veterans and their families at the Buffalo VA Hospital. During the past year, more than 887 volunteers spent over 129,000 volunteer hours helping Veterans. The amount of time spent is equated to more than $2.3 million in wages. During the same time the various Veterans organizations have donated more than $222,000.00 to support the needs of the Veterans. A new van for transporting veterans to medical facilities and an on going program to replace the televisions in the Hospital are but two examples of how the funds are used.

Winners Of VFW Ladies Chili Cookoff Announced - 2005

Shown are the winners and judges of the chili cookoff: Diane Luce, Dan Robillard, Mike Gross, Vickie Lisk (in front of M. Gross), Kurt Schultz, Steve Schneps, Joe Synakowski, Wendy Truesdale, Co-Chair Diana DeMarco and Michele Lozo.
Mary Stewart photo - Click photo for larger view
   The Charles N. DeGlopper V.F.W. Post #9249 Ladies Auxiliary hosted a Tailgatin' Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, September 24, 2005 at the Post. Winners and their prizes follow:
• 1st place - Joe Synakowski - $75
• 2nd place - Wendy Truesdale - $50
• 3rd place - Eleanor Shotmiller - $25
• Honorable Mention - Michelle Lozo
• Honorable Mention - Audrey DeMarco
   Former Buffalo Bill Kurt Schulz served as a guest judge and proceeds were for the benefit of his favorite charity, The Heritage Oak Foundation (for the mentally challenged and disabled of all ages). Also judging the crockpots of chili were Diane Luce, Town Councilman Dan Robillard, Mike Gross, Vickie Lisk (Heritage Centers), Kurt Schultz and Steve Schneps (WBEN Radio).
   Kathy Blake was chairman of this year's event and Diana DeMarco was co-chair.

VFW Receives Check From DAV Roll of Honor Post 120 - 2005

Mary Stewart Photo
    Gerald D. Tidd, Senior View Commander of the DAV Roll of Honor Post 120 presented a check to the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 Wednesday evening, September 14, 2005. Accepting the check were VFW Commander Daniel McMahon and Quartermaster Richard Lozo Sr.
    "It is a pleasure to be here with an outstanding bunch of Veterans, veterans who belong to the outstanding Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249," Mr. Tidd said. "We in the Tonawandas and Kenmore have heard nothing but the good your Post is doing to help Veterans and their families. Commander McMahon, keep up the good work you and the fine men of this Post are doing," he said.
    The monies will be put towards the health and welfare of Veterans and their families, Commander McMahon said.

VFW Post #9249 Ladies Announce Tailgatin' Chili Cook-Off - September 2005
   The Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW Post 9249 will host a Tailgatin' Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, September 24, 2005 at the Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. Guest Judge former Buffalo Bill Kurt Schulz will be featured with proceeds to benefit Kurt's Charity of Choice - The Heritage Oak Foundation (for the mentally challenged and disabled of all ages).
   The event will offer autograph signing, a Chinese auction, music, 50/50 split, Chili Tasting, and Chili dogs.
   Chili registration takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
   General admission is $2 (children under 12 FREE).
   Judging of entries is at 1 p.m.
   Prizes follow:
• 1st place - $75
• 2nd place - $50
• 3rd place - $25
• Honorable Mention - $10
   For further information, call 774-8208 or 603-3588.

Residents Remember At 911 Vigil Held Under Sunny Skies - 2005

Attendees listening to the speakers

(left) VFW Honor preparing to take aim for the 21 gun salute; (right) Grand High School band member Joseph Orsolits Jr. plays taps

(left) Alex Grande playing Taps; Invocation by Acting Chaplain Joe Synakowski

(left) Supervisor McMahon during his remarks; The VFW Honor Guard prepares for the 21 Gun Salute
Bridget McMahon Photos - click for larger view
   The members of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post 9249, Veterans of Foreign Wars sponsored a 7 p.m. vigil at the post on 2121 Grand Island Blvd. in memory of those who lost their lives during the September 11, 2001 terrist attacks on the United States.
   VFW Commander Daniel McMahon offered these words: "Following the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, D.C. on Sept. 11, 2001, many Americans vowed that they would never forget those who died at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field in Somerset County, Pa.
   "Today, marking the fourth anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, memorial events across our nation and around the world have and will remember the family, friends, and neighbors we lost on 9/11.
   "Throughout human history there have been those who seek power through fear and mass murder but eventually all of them -- every one -- has fallen.
   "We are here on Grand Island to pay tribute to those who lost their lives September 11, 2001. Though time will never dull the grief of those who lost their loved ones on that tragic day, it is, I believe, why we are here tonight, to let the families and friends know they are not alone in their grief."
   The vigil ended with Grand Island High School band members Alex Grande and Joseph Orsolits Jr. playing taps under the direction of Marty Allen.

VFW Post #9249 Announces Island's 911 Vigil - September 2005
   In remembrance of the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001, a Vigil will be held at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post 9249, Veterans of Foreign Wars, 2121 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island at 7 p.m. Sunday, September 11, 2005. All members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Disabled Veterans of America and Citizens of Grand Island, are urged to attend this most important Memorial Service.
   "We pray for the Troops who are in harms way, serving our nation against the threat of terrorism in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the globe. They are in our prayers and in our hearts. Please take a few minutes to attend the Vigil on September 11th at 7 p.m."
   The 911 Vigil is being sponsored by the VFW #9249.

Hurricane Katrina: How You Can Help - 2005
   Kansas City, MO, Aug. 30, 2005 . . .In the first challenge of his administration, newly elected Veterans of Foreign Wars National Commander James R. Mueller, of O'Fallon, Mo., wasted no time in leading VFW efforts to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina.
   "It is critical that VFW Departments [states] respond quickly to ensure that the citizens of Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama receive all of the assistance we can provide them," said Mueller, who was elected August 25 at the 1.8 million-member veterans organization's 106th national convention in Salt Lake City. "During difficult times like these, we must unite as an organization to do everything we can to make sure the appropriate resources are available to help rebuild these communities."
   According to Mueller, many of those affected by the hurricane are military families.
   "Many of the National Guard, Air National Guard and Reservists in the affected areas are deployed," he said. "It is heart-breaking for those families who have loved ones deployed to have to cope with such a disaster by themselves. It also is a tragic situation for those service men and women who are deployed thousands of miles away from the disaster and are unable to contribute any help to their suffering families. It is a very emotional time for both. We [the VFW] must go to extraordinary means to ensure our troops that we will take care of their families while they are deployed."
   The VFW is centering its relief efforts on monetary donations because clothing, food and building-materials drives will cause logistical problems.
   "The best way that we can help is through direct donations to the Department Headquarters of Mississippi and Louisiana. Donation checks need to be clearly marked for disaster relief," he added. "With your help, the VFW can play an important role in assisting those who have been hurt by this weather-related disaster."
   To help, send your donations to:
Precilla Wilkewitz, Adjutant
Department of Louisiana, VFW
10185 Mammoth Avenue
Baton Rouge, La. 70814-4421

Johnnie L. Richard, Adjutant
Department of Mississippi, VFW
P.O. Box 2027
Jackson, Miss. 39225

VFW Post 9249, Auxiliaries Send Funds To Assist Citizens of Devastated South - 2005
September 1, 2005 . . .In response to an urgent request from the newly elected National VFW Commander, James R. Mueller, for funds to assist the citizens in Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama, the members of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 and auxiliaries are sending donations to the VFW Department Adjutants in the states of Louisiana and Mississippi. These funds will be used by the state's VFW members to assist in the relief efforts. This disaster has come at a time when large contingents of military reserve units are already deployed over seas and cannot assist their communities.
Daniel B. McMahon
Commander
Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249

VFW To Host Hawaiian Luau - 2005
Members of VFW Post 9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. will host an Authentic Hawaiian Luau Saturday, August 13, 2005 at the Post. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Tickets are $25 available at the Post bar daily or call 773-6343 or 603-4228. Attendees will enjoy Authentic Tahitian-Maori Dancers, a Hawaiian basket auction, a best dressed Hawaiian contest, and a full menu of POAA (pig), fresh fish, Lorni Lorni salmon, Huli Huli chicken, sweet potatoes, Nishiki rice, and pineapple Haupia.

150 Entries In 2005 Dick Pendleton Memorial Super Cruise - 2005

Dan McMahon Photos - click for larger view
Cars shown from left are those of Terry Guenot, Leo Ricci, Gerry Korzen's brown 442 Olds (left), Marc Thompson's blue Mustang and Rich Lozo's red Mustang.
Nearly 150 cars and trucks were entered in the 4th annual Dick Pendleton Memorial Super Cruise held Sunday afternoon, July 31, 2005 at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249. Island residents made up over 25 of the nearly 150 entries. Award winners included VFW members Kevin Banks, Terry Guenot, Leo Ricci and Gerry Korzen who took home trophies for their entries at the end of the day. The 4th annual Cruise was sponsored by the VFW Post 9249.

4th Annual Dick Pendleton Memorial Super Cruise At VFW - 2005
   The 4th Annual Dick Pendleton Memorial Super Cruise will be held Sunday, July 31, 2005 at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post #9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. from noon to 4 p.m.
   The cruise is being sponsored by Fuccillo Chevrolet and Gross Plumbing. Gates open at 10 a.m. and judging begins at 1 p.m. There is no admission.
   Awards will be presented at 4:15 p.m. along with Dash Plaques to the first 200 cars. There will be over 75 awards, A Chinese auction, a 50/50 raffle and door prizes.
   Those attending will enjoy the live music of "Big Wheelie and the Hub Caps" from 1-4 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the Town Boys & Girls Summer Camp.

VFW Independence Day Picnic - Monday - July 4, 2005
   The VFW Post 9249's Independence Day Picnic and open house will be held immediately after the town's 9:30 a.m. July 4, 2005 parade. The day will include clams, corn, hot dogs, hamburgers, Italian sausage, beer and soft drinks and music as well as children's events including magic shows, pony rides, a petting zoo and face painting by three clowns.
   Dan McBride will be broadcasting his "Around the Town" program on WXRL 1300 AM from 1-2 p.m.
   Food and beverages will be by pre-purchased ticket only. Numerous ticket booths are to be set up throughout the area and sufficient staffing is planned.
   This is a real All-Island reunion and the place to meet friends from here and those who are in town for the holiday. Tom Roberts is chairman of this year's Independence Day picnic.

VFW Installs Officers - Dan McMahon New Commander - 2005

Click for larger view
The Charles N. DeGlopper V.F.W. Post #9249 held installation of officers on Tuesday, June 14, 2005. The Post's new commander is lifelong Islander Dan McMahon. Seated is Chaplain Mike Rogan. Standing from left are Judge Advocate Joe Synakowski, Adjutant Dennis Carder, Jr. Vice Commander Damon Wright, Commander Dan McMahon, Sr. Vice Commander Larry (Butch) Backlund, Quartermaster Richard Lozo Sr. and Surgeon Jack Thompson. Past Commander Leo Ricci served as installing officer.

VFW Receives Operation Enduring Freedom Flag - 2005

Dan McMahon Photo - Click for larger view
Members of the V.F.W. Post 9249 were presented a United States flag that had flown in Afghanistan. The flag was sent to Rosemary and Bruce Wojick in appreciation for the many packages the Grand Island, N.Y. Post has sent to numerous servicemen stationed in the Middle East and fighting for Operation Enduring Freedom. Shown from left are Quartermaster Richard Lozo, Sr., Rosemary Wojick, Past Commander Tom Roberts, Past Commander Mike Cutini, and Bruce Wojick, Sr. The presentation took place Tuesday, June 14, 2005 at the Post on Grand Island Blvd.

VFW Men and Ladies Auxiliary To Host Bar-B-Que Chicken Dinner - 2005
A Bar-B-Que Chicken Dinner will be hosted by the Men's and Ladies Auxiliary from 3-7 p.m. Saturday, June 11, 2005 at the Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. Dinners include 1/2 BBQ chicken, salad and side dishes at a cost of $7 a plate with an Early Birds special from 3-4 p.m. at $6.50. A dessert table will be available and a 50/50 raffle will take place.

Pre-sale Food/Beverage Tickets Available For VFW Independence Day Picnic - 2005
Members of the VFW Post 9249's Independence Day picnic committee have pre-sale tickets available for the purchase of food, beverages and children's events are now available at the Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd., from 10 a.m. to closing. There is no admission to the picnic. The Independence Day celebration at the Post begins directly after the 9:30 a.m. parade along Grand Island Boulevard. During the Picnic there will be four or more booths available for the purchase of tickets. Pre-sale tickets are available in strips of 10 tickets for $10.00 each strip.
Plans for this year's annual community picnic have been in the works for months with the usual menu of clams, corn, hot dogs, hamburgs, drinks and music. Commander Tom Roberts is Chairman on this year's events.

US Service Flags Displayed At VFW - 2005

Joe Synakowski Photo - Click for larger view
    The flags of all branches of the United States Military Services were displayed on Armed Forces Day, May 17, 2005, at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post 9249, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Grand Island, NY.
    "We Honor the Men and Women who are serving our great country presently and are grateful to those Veterans who have served in the past.
    "We remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and Memorial Services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, May 30, 2005 at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Park, Grand Island Blvd and Baseline Rd. We ask you, the citizens of Grand Island, to attend and show our gratitude of debt to our Fallen Comrades. We pray for the safe return of all our Service Men and Women who are in harms way."

VFW Buddy Poppy Days Declared - 2005

Shown from left are Councilman Dan Robillard, Honor Guard Captain Gerry Korzen, Councilman Gary Roesch, Ladies Auxiliary Senior Vice President Sue McMahon, Ladies Auxiliary President Kathy Blake, Supervisor Peter McMahon, Buddy Poppy Chairman Wally Wigdorski, Bernie Brice, Councilman Dick Crawford, Senior Vice Commander Mike Cutini, Councilwoman Mary Cooke, and Lee Becker.
   Joe Synakowski Photo - Click photo for larger view
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, May 16, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . Members of the Grand Island VFW Post 9249 and the VFW Auxiliary were on hand Monday to receive a proclamation declaring May 26, 27 and 28 VFW Buddy Poppy Days on Grand Island. Sales of Buddy Poppies, assembled by disabled veterans with proceeds benefiting widows and orphans of deceased veterans and for disabled and needy veterans at the National Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, will take place around town at banks, Tops and other public places. Patriotic citizens are requested to wear the Buddy Poppy, especially on Memorial Day, as a symbol of their gratitude to men and women who have risked their lives on the battlefront.
   Memorial Day Ceremonies will be held at 10 a.m. on Memorial Day at Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Park, Grand Island Blvd. and Baseline Road, following a VFW presence at each of the Island cemeteries in honor of deceased veterans.

Memorial Day Gravesite Services 2005

The Honor Guard of the Pfc. Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post #9249 Veterans of Foreign Wars will conduct gravesite services at the following locations on May 30, 2005 - times approximate:

Whitehaven Cemetery - East River Rd. (near Holiday Inn) 7:40-7:50 a.m.

Maple Grove Cemetery - (resting place of C. N. DeGlopper) Stony Point near Whitehaven Rd. 7:55-8:05 a.m.

Staley Cemetery - West River Rd near Staley - 8:15-8:25 a.m.

Assumption Cemetery - Whitehaven Rd, near 4th St. - 8:30-8:40 a.m.

Trinity Cemetery - Whitehaven Rd. next to Old Trinity Church 8:45-8:55 a.m.

St. Stephen's Cemetery - Baseline Rd, next to Old St. Stephen's Church - 9-9:10 a.m.
Memorial Day services will be held at the PFC. Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Park, Grand Island Blvd. and Baseline Road at 10 a.m. Residents of Grand Island are urged to attend to honor our fallen comrades who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country.

VFW Ladies Auxiliary Elects Officers - 2005
Members of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 Ladies Auxiliary have elected the following officers for 2005:
President Kathie Blake, Senior Vice-President Sue McMahon, Junior Vice-President Diana Demarco, Secretary Linda Lozo, Treasurer Kathy Mehltretter, Chaplain Terri Majewicz, Guard Rosemary Wojick, Conductress Liane Dahlberg, and Trustee Joanne Lozo.

VFW Elects New Commander - 2005
Members of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 on Tuesday, April 12, 2005, elected the following new officers for the coming year: Commander Daniel B. McMahon, Senior Vice Commander Larry (Butch) Backlund, Jr., Junior Vice Commander Damon Wright, Quartermaster Richard Lozo Sr., Surgeon Jack Thompson, Judge Advocate Joseph Synakowski, Chaplain Michael Rogan, Trustee Jerry Korzen. Other officers are Adjutant Dennis Carder and Trustees Jim Skindell and David Clayton.

Buddy Poppy Drive 2005

Shown are Veteran Harvey Long and Past Commander Mike Cutini
Dan McMahon Photo
Members of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post #9249 Veterans of Foreign Wars will conduct their annual "Buddy Poppy Drive" Thursday, May 26, Friday, May 27 and Saturday, May 28, 2005 at various locations on Grand Island. The drive is to remind us of the sacrifice made by our comrades in arms and to support the National Home for widows and orphans of deceased veterans. Please "wear your Buddy Poppy" on Memorial Day and attend the services at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Park, Grand Island Blvd. and Baseline Road at 10 a.m., May 30, 2005 (Memorial Day Observed).

Jennie's Spaghetti At VFW Post - 2005
A dinner from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, April 9 at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 will feature Jennie's Spaghetti. Sauce will be homemade and the Ladies Auxiliary's famous dessert table will be available. Dine in or take out.

Flea Market Being Planned By VFW Ladies - 2005
Members of the VFW Post 9249's Ladies Auxiliary have announced plans to host a Flea Market from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 18, 2005 at the post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. Reservations for table rental at $10 may be made by calling Rosemary at 775-5137 or Barb at 773-5621. Refreshments will be available.

VFW Men's Auxiliary Installation - March 2005

(left) Presentation of Plaque: Auxiliary President Dan Sexton, Guard Mark Gollwitzer and Jr. Vice President Steve DeMarco
(right) Newly installed officers (front) Bruce Wojick Jr., Gary Kratz, Mark Gollwitzer, Dave Brice and Installing Officer Tom Roberts; (back) Pat Patterson, Dan Sexton, Richard Lozo Jr., Steve DeMarco and Don Tranter

Dan McMahon Photos - Click photos for a larger view.
Commander Tom Roberts of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 presided at the installation of the officers of the Men's Auxiliary for the 2005-2006 Year. Installed were President Daniel Sexton, Senior Vice President Richard Lozo Jr., Jr. Vice President Steve DeMarco, Treasurer Bruce Wojick, Sr., Secretary Pat Patterson, Chaplain Don Tranter, Guard Mark Gollwitzer, Trustees Dave Brice, 1-year; and Gary Kratz, 2-year. In addition to the installation, Mark Gollwitzer was presented a plaque in appreciation for his work in the formation of the Men's Auxiliary and received the Charter from the National VFW office.

National Ladies Auxiliary President Visits - 2005
The National Ladies Auxiliary President Joanne Ott will be making an official visit to New York State on April 17-19. Ladies from VFW Post 9249 will be joining her for a Banquet Dinner at the Ramada Inn. Showing the National President the wonder of the Falls will also be an exciting part of her visit. The dedicated ladies from Post 9249 will be learning all they can from the president during her visit.

VFW Ladies Serve Huge Crowd - 2005

P. Kratz Photo
The Ladies Auxiliary of Post 9249 did it again - they pleased a huge crowd of hungry folks by serving them a tasty spaghetti dinner on Saturday, February 26, 2005. Shown in the photo are (left) JoAnn Lozo, Donna Briggs, and Mary Patterson.

Annual Corned Beef And Cabbage Dinner At VFW Post - 2005
The Ladies Auxiliary of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post #9249 Veterans of Foreign Wars will hold a corned beef and cabbage dinner from 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, March 12, 2005 at the Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. Cost of a dinner is $7 and includes corned beef, cabbage and rye bread. Dessert may be purchased separately. Take-outs will be available.

VFW Ladies Auxiliary Plans 5th Annual Pierogi Sale - 2005
Members of the VFW Post #9249 Ladies Auxiliary will hold their 5th annual Homemade Pierogi Sale on Saturday, March 19, 2004 after 4 p.m. at the Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. Due to the overwhelming success in the past, only prepaid orders can be filled. Pre-ordering at the Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd., after 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday and after noon on Sundays. ($7/dozen and $4.50/half dozen) will reserve your order. Choices this year are (1) Farmer's Cheese & Chives, (2) Sauerkraut and Mushrooms and (3) Potato and Cheddar Cheese & Onion.

VFW "Voice of Democracy" Contest - 2005

Voice of Democracy Awards - (left) Kathy Blake, Sam Hill, Recipient Chris Mehltretter, Molly McMahon, Recipient Kevin Mehltretter, Kathie Mehltretter and Commander Tom Roberts

Patriot's Pen Awards being presented - (left) Sue McMahon, Recipient Andrea DeRosa, Molly McMahon, Recipient Alexandria House, Commander Tom Roberts and Kathy Blake.
Dan McMahon photos - Click photos for larger view
    Ladies Auxiliary members of the Grand Island VFW Post 9249 recently held their annual Voice of Democracy essay contest. The Voice of Democracy Award winners are Kevin (first) and Christopher Mehltretter (second), both seniors at the Grand Island High School. The Mehltretter brothers' entries were judged at the county level and advanced to the District level.
    Alexandria House, a 7th grade student at St. Stephen School was the first place winner in the Patriots Pen contest and Andrea DeRosa, an 8th grade student at St. Stephen was the 2nd place winner. This year's theme for the national contest was "What Service To My Country Means To Me."
   Awards were given by the VFW and the Men's and Ladies Auxiliaries of the VFW Post.

VFW Post 9249 Ladies Host Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser - 2005
The Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 9249 will host a Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, February 26, 2005. Pasta, Meatballs, Bread, Salad and Coffee will be provided for the price of $6. Kids 8 and under eat for $4. The dinner will feature a dessert sale, door prizes, music and raffles.

Free Legal Aid Available For Armed Forces - 2005
For information on free legal aid to United States Armed Forces, click for "Erie County Bar Association". The Erie County Bar Association offers high-quality legal help from lawyers including Island resident Roy Carlisi Jr.

VFW Ladies Make Generous Donation To VA Hospital - 2005

Shown from left are VFW Ladies Auxiliary members Mary Becker, Kathie Blake, Liane Dahlberg, Dona Putzbach, and Pat Kratz.
    Pfc. Charles N. DeGlopper (MOH) Memorial Post # 9249 Veterans of Foreign Wars, Ladies Auxiliary, Grand Island NY. . .When the VAMC (Vet�s Hospital) has a need, the Ladies Auxiliary of the Pfc. Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post 9249 VFW on Grand Island, responds.
    A call for items of clothing for the needy Vets was answered on Thursday, January 13, 2005 with a contribution to the Clothing Locker by the VFW's Ladies Auxiliary. Much needed underwear, socks and T-shirts were accepted by Dona Putzbach, a volunteer at Vet's Hospital's DAV clothing Locker. The Ladies also donated packets of all occasion greeting cards with stamps, to the new � Welcome Kit � Program for newly admitted veteran patients.
    Ms. Bridget McMahon chaired this project and was assisted by other Auxiliary members. The Ladies are always willing to help to make the Veterans' stay at the Hospital a bit more comfortable. For information on programs that help our veterans and servicemen and women on active duty, call the VFW Post #9249 at 773-6343 or Ladies Auxiliary President Kathy Blake at 774-8208.

VFW Ladies To Hold Wine Tasting - 2005
The V.F.W. Post #9249 Ladies Auxiliary will hold a Wine Tasting at the VFW Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. 7 p.m. on Friday, January 21, 2005. The event is open to the public, there is no admission and music will be provided by East Side Sounds.

If you are a member of this organization, we need your help. GIECOM.Net has partnered with the Connections program to help Grand Island as a community "Get it Together." Please visit our website G-I-Together.ORG and fill out our SURVEY. Every group on Grand Island will have its own FREE web page showing: meeting times and location, contact persons, your Mission Statement and a listing of events. We will also be linking your news events that appear in the local media and on IsledeGrande.Com, Grand Island's E-News Source, to your page, maintaining an archived journal of pictures and news. This is the perfect opportunity for your group to connect with potential new members and the community.