The word “veteran” often is associated with an image relating to the military. However, Bradford VFW Post 212’s Ron Peters, Pennsylvania Department of Veterans of Foreign Wars’ state junior vice commander, considers first responders as veterans, too.
On Tuesday evening, local first responders were treated to a dinner courtesy of the Bradford VFW for the second year of what will be an annual event, according to Jim Long, president of the Bradford Township Volunteer Fire Department.
“These people, especially volunteer fire departments, are serving us the same as veterans do,” Peters explained. “The same with our police departments –– they go out there and risk their lives everyday. People don’t look at it like that, but we do here. At VFW Post 212, we see that every time they make a traffic stop or go out on a call for a fire or an accident, they put their lives in jeopardy, and that’s important in serving and giving back to the community.”
When asked how it felt to be honored by veterans who have put their lives on the line in wars on foreign soil, Bradford City Police Department’s Chief Chris Lucco humbly replied, “It’s an honor to have these distinguished veterans take time out of their lives to honor us in their facility.”
Peters said the Bradford Post donated $62,000 to various foundations, fire departments and to veterans in need.
“It’s making a difference in the community. So many people think these places are about drinking beer and smoking cigarettes, and it’s much, much more than that,” Peters proudly explained. “And across the state of Pennsylvania last year, VFWs alone donated over $6 million and over 500,000 man-hours to community service –– that’s what we do,”
Long and Peters both emphasized the importance of “brotherhood” and honoring those who have served.
Long said, “One thing that’s drilled into you as a soldier, an airman, a sailor or a marine is comradery. That doesn’t come out of a guy just because he left the military.”
“No –– it stays with you your whole life,” added Peters, reflecting Long’s comments of comradery.
Tuesday’s dinner made it clear that one of the biggest missions for the VFW is honoring those who have put their lives on the line and preserving the legacy of each brave individual who has served.
“We’re trying to answer problems that the veterans are having, like suicide; there’s (about 20) per day committing suicide, and the VFW is working on that,” Peters continued. “We just helped push a bill through for the defense budget of $700 billion, that was our national commander who sat in front of the senate and got that bill across the line.”
Peters noted the VFW’s membership is down and is “in need.”
“For many years now, we’ve depended on the life memberships of the World War II and Korean War veterans and, sadly, they’re leaving us. It’s in the hands of the Vietnam (War) guys now,” Peters concluded.
Those who wish to contribute donations may reach the Bradford VFW Post 212 at 368-3011. “We’ll make sure (donations) get into the right hands,” Long said.
