Michigan Day 2009

American flags and Post/Auxiliary flags from across the state of Michigan at the VFW National Home. Photos by Dann Todd

VFW Post 823 and our Post 823 Auxiliary displayed their respective colors during a recent visit to the VFW National Home For Children located in Eaton Rapids, MI. July 26th was this the date for this year's Michigan Day at the National Home. Post Quartermaster Dann Todd, Auxiliary President Shelly Todd, and Auxiliary Secretary Millie Boylan made the short trip to participate in this year's Michigan Day events.

They toured two of the 36 single family dwellings maintained for use by children of our nation's veterans that have no place else to go. There were games and other activities being played on the lawn surrounding the community center.

Before lunch, the assembled VFW and Auxiliary members were treated to singing by the National Home Choir. Several thousand dollars were raised due to the generous donations from VFW Posts and Auxiliaries across the state of Michigan. The 2008-2009 Buddy Poppy Child, Marie Strefling, was on hand to help host the festivities.

Plaque photo by Dann Todd

During their tour, the group discovered this place in honor of Ashley Beck. Ashley was the Supreme Commander of the Military Order of the Cootie in 1941 when the ball field construction was completed and the field was dedicated.

Post 823 has had a lengthy relationship with the National Home. It was Post 823 member Corey Spencer that originally donated 472 acres of farmland located near Eaton Rapids in 1924.