Marshalltown Veterans of Foreign Wars continued discussions on coming activities and held installation ceremonies for 2017-18 officers during Tuesday’s monthly meeting.

With Harry C. Harter Post 839 Commander Dallas Clark presiding, the 19 veterans in attendance, following prayers by Chaplain Larry Larson, aired such items as the May 25-27 Flags For All Veterans Graves project. Rick Johnson reviewed this project, whereby volunteers will post small flags at cooperating businesses available to the public for free will donations.

Antoni Polkiewicz, a Vietnam War Navy veteran, was recognized as a new Post 839 member. Iowa Department VFW Quartermaster Jerry Black, a Marshalltown post member, presented the quartermasters financial report and told of 2018 Iowa Department and Mid-Winter Conference dates and sites.

Black also reported on a brick project involving $50 donations per brick to be placed alongside the flag at state headquarters in Des Moines. He noted that 48 bricks are already registered, and 101 must be committed before ordering.

Laurel Phipps served as installation officer for the local 2017-18 staff, which takes their posts following this years Iowa VFW Convention.

The joint VFW/American Legion Honor Guard participated in six veterans funeral ceremonies during April, according to Ken Breinig. Also, the unit took a role in Gold Star Family military honors for Bill McKibben, a chopper pilot shot down over Vietnam.

Also a topic addressed by Breinig and Phipps was potential methods for replacing the Honor Guard bus. A contribution from “100 Women Who Care” toward the bus replacement fund was reported.

Service Officer Dennis Myers reported on the Veterans Choice Program which involves veterans claims. He noted that veterans facing telephone problems in the program to contact him. Judge Advocate Phipps also reviewed other veterans current affairs status.

Jim Bacino gave the adjutants report, including roll call. Don Douglas conducted guard duties.