Providing refuge for local veterans for nearly three decades, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1392 in Ocean Beach is being forced to look for a new home. Recently informed their lease wouldn’t be renewed after December, post members are scrambling for new digs and asking for community support. “When it gets down to it, what’s happening is terrible,” said Vic Tulsie, post quartermaster. “It’s really hard to move a business in a three- to four-month time period, especially for a nonprofit.” VFW Post 1392 has called 4944 Newport Ave. Suite G home since 1983. Veterans of every major war — from World War II to the current Middle East conflicts and the war on terrorism — frequent the post. “This is a place where prior servicemembers can talk about their lives to other people that understand,” Tulsie said. “There is a bit of frustration and it would be a big disappointment if this place were to close down.” Early last month, property owner Lyle Cocking informed the post he would not be renewing its month-to-month lease. Cocking said he gave the post more than the required two-month notice and that a current tenant would fill the space starting in January. “We don’t have enough room for all the tenants, so we elected to rent to another tenant rather than them [the VFW],” Cocking said. “I’m sorry that they have to go. It was strictly a business decision. It wasn’t anything else.” In addition to providing a haven for veterans, the local VFW post has also given back to the community through its thrift store and numerous volunteer efforts over the years. Last year alone, the post made donations to about 25 organizations, including local schools, seasonal events and Point Loma Little League. “This post has done a lot for this community and it would be nice if the community did a little bit for the post,” Tulsie said. The VFW post also puts out the flags that line Newport Avenue on each national holiday. This iconic gesture boosts patriotism, in even the most liberal of locales. “We have such a dynamic, powerful and patriotic presence out here in Ocean Beach,” Tulsie said. “And the people are proud. They’re proud of their vets, they’re proud of their active duty, they’re proud of their reservists.” Tulsie said any local real estate agents or licensed contractors able to volunteer their services would be a great help. The local VFW is also accepting donations of any amount to lessen the possibility of an extended closure once the lease expires. “We just need a lot of help from a lot of different people,” Tulsie said. “Anything anybody could do would be greatly appreciated.” Those wanting to help can call Tulsie at (619) 572-7554.