History of Brewster VFW Post 672
The Brewster VFW was born prior to World War II. Several members of World War I met for years in a small group to share their ideas and ideals. Their experiences in World War I, overseas, was a strong bond that kept them together. They met on the Town Hall steps to discussed things of mutual interest. In the 1950s the members of Post 672, primarily of World War II now, decided to buy the “Busy Bee”, a tavern located on Peaceable Hill Road in Brewster. BOCES carpentry students were hired to construct a new back area, which was completed in three years. In the march from World War I to the present, there have been a lot of parties, a lot of fun, but most of all a lot of dreams. From a meager beginning of 35 members to the present roster of 144, many people have passed through the doors. Now more than 700 members have joined this Post. (as cited in the history of Brewster VFW Post 672)
How to get involved.
The best part of joining the Brewster VFW is the people – local men and women from all walks of life that share the common bond of being veterans of our Nation’s overseas conflicts. There is a certain camaraderie among their membership, and Brewster Post 672 is a very active post, helping hometown veterans and the local community.
The Brewster VFW organizes the annual Memorial Day Parade & Wreath Laying Ceremony, as well as the Veterans Day Ceremony in downtown Brewster. You will see their members at the Founders Day event in the village, and will occasionally see them passing out Buddy Poppies at local supermarkets and retail shops. They participate in numerous scholarship competitions, recognition awards and community outreach programs. They hosted a monthly Breakfast Fundraiser which is open to the public, learn more about each of the programs and community events they organize HERE.
The fundamental difference between their organization and other veterans organizations and one in which they take great pride in is their eligibility qualifications. There are three primary requisites for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States: (1) Citizenship (2) Honorable service in the armed forces of the United States (3) Service entitling the applicant to the award of a recognized campaign medal or as set forth in the Congressional Charter and By-Laws and Manual of Procedure and Ritual. For more specific info on eligibility, including qualifying service dates and campaigns click HERE.
Why Join?
“The VFW was instrumental in establishing the Veterans Administration and creating G.I. bills for the 20th and 21st centuries. There is strength in numbers and we need members standing behind our leaders when they testify before Congress and meet with the President in the Oval Office. There seems to be a mistaken perception that the VFW is for older retirees. In reality, the services offered can benefit any service member, young or old, who needs help in a multitude of areas – or just to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow veterans and to serve the community in which we live.” – Art Hanley, Commander
“I recall the great point of in the Movie Saving Private Ryan.... especially at the end when Ryan looks at his wife in the cemetery and says to her "I lived a good life didn't I"? If you join our Post you will definitely be working with super people doing deeds that make you feel you are doing right and moving towards a "good life" “- Rob Rottkamp, Senior Vice Commander
If you have any questions or would like additional information visit their website, email HQ@vfwpost672.org or call the VFW at 845-279-6969 after 3 pm each day.
View of a Veteran - Freedom is Not Free is a series of articles that will feature a different veteran. Feel free to search our site for "View of a Veteran". This project is run in conjection with Brewster VFW Post 672 and Brewster HamletHub. You are invited to thank a veteran for their service by commenting on any of the articles.
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