With the end of year 2022 closing in Marshalltown VFW Post 839 discussed a variety of coming projects at its Oct. 18 meeting. The dozen members in attendance eyed volunteer needs among topics.

Commander Rob Shepherd reported a request for volunteers needed to assist in monthly bingo at the Iowa Veterans Home and Harry C. Harter Post’s Richard (Rick) Johnson asked for help with worn flag retirement procedure at his rural home among topics. Also the traditional Christmas party set for Dec. 2 was verified.

First date for volunteer needs at IVH bingo is from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Oct. 28. The flag project is set for 1 p.m. on Oct. 29 at Johnson’s home, 1632 Vance Ave. northeast of Marshalltown.

Considerable discussion during the meeting concerned financial donations to needy veterans because of health or other problems, whether considered true veterans because of honorary discharge or otherwise. That led to Shepherd’s reminder that a new sign, “Veterans Helping Veterans” has been posted above the door on VFW quarters at 107 E. Meadow Lane. He said another sign, POW/MIA, is now being constructed for later posting outside the building.

The post charter was draped during the meeting in memory of Jim Bacino, John Kvidera, Frank Patterson and Richard Warden. On this topic, Bob Miller’s VFW/American Legion Honor Guard report noted 85 participations at veterans funerals this year and already nine during October.

Johnson reported the Oct. 14 fundraiser tenderloin meal was a sellout on meat. Shepherd credited that with public turnout to wide community publicity about the event. A suggestion was to communicate with local JBS for future meat source.

In addition to Commander Shepherd’s role, other rituals were taken by Johnson, guard; Pete Dumer, senior vice; Gary Scott, chaplain; Larry Tuttle, adjutant and Roger Dirks, quartermaster.