Some people you just can’t do without. They are that central cog in the gearworks; the glue that holds everything together. Valerie Meacham is one of those people.

For the last 28 years Meacham has been serving as secretary of the Frances Sherman Auxiliary to VFW Post 212. For nine of those years, she served at the district level.

“Valerie Meacham is nothing short of amazing,” said Amy Peterson, Auxiliary 212 president. “She has been a longtime advocate for veterans and their families in the Bradford community.”

Longtime Frances Sherman Auxiliary secretary Valerie Meacham during a past parade in which she had been recognized as Sister of the Year.

Meacham’s skills and experience will be sorely missed by her friends and colleagues who have come to rely on her throughout her decades of service.

“Valerie has helped in so many ways with her leadership abilities and experience,” said Peterson. “She is one of several super knowledgeable mentors within the group.”

Peterson said that Meacham is her “right hand” and a true supporter of the auxiliary’s cause.

“To be frank, I feel like I’m losing a piece of myself as she retires this year,” said Peterson.

Peterson describes the auxiliary members as a tight-knit group who will miss Meacham’s heartfelt dedication.

“She’s been a good friend, mentor and part of our ‘family’ for so long,” said Peterson. “We will miss her sitting in that seat in the coming years.”

The position of secretary is one of the most difficult and time consuming roles to fill within an organization, but Meacham stepped into the role with aplomb and grace, Peterson said.

“I cannot stress enough how much work is done behind the scenes through the skills of well-trained officers in our organization, and Valerie is the best kept secret since the late ’90s,” said Peterson.

For many years, Meacham was the main organizer of the Memorial Day Parade before passing the torch to Judy Keyes a few years ago.

“She had so much going on and was truly an unsung hero within our circle,” said Peterson. “She has made a remarkable difference in our community; positively influencing everyone she has crossed paths with.”

Nine years ago, Meacham took on the position of district secretary for the auxiliary. This post included administrative work for 10 auxiliaries throughout several counties. She has also held several chairmanships including chief of staff, and legislative and mentoring chairman.

“Her organizational skills are unmatched,” said Peterson.

Meacham officially retires July 1. She has offered to mentor her replacement, Sean Zamberlan.

“This, alone, shows how much passion she has for the role that she wants to make sure the transition goes smoothly, as we welcome Sean,” said Peterson.

Zamberlan is a veteran and Auxiliary 212 member who said he is excited to step into his new role.