Supporting local military members may be as easy as buying a lasagna dinner. This is one of many fundraisers hosted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and The American Legion in Pacific Beach to benefit active duty and retired servicemen and servicewomen. The post in Pacific Beach houses VFW and The American Legion. Various levels of membership in The American Legion include the women’s American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion — a diverse group of members all having a commonality inextricably linking them. “While eligibility rules for each group vary, we are united in our efforts to make life better for active duty and retired service personnel and their families,” said Desiree Herrera, vice commander of American Legion Post 552 and acting president of the new American Legion Auxiliary Unit 552. “We strive to work together as often as possible.” Herrera, Pacific Beach resident and Army veteran of 17 years, discovered the post while searching for meaningful volunteer work. “Many people don’t even know we’re here,” said Herrera. “We want to be able to help veterans navigate the Veterans Affairs hospital system and utilize their benefits.” The public and those interested in volunteer opportunities are encouraged to stop by the post at 853 Turquoise St. Donations are always accepted, and of particular need are toiletries and unworn socks and underwear, which are taken to local Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals and Veterans Village of San Diego. The post hosts monthly fundraisers, typically brunch or dinner, with an open invitation and proceeds supporting veterans-related meals and celebrations. Other functions include holiday festivities for both hospitalized veterans and the families of deployed servicemen and servicewomen. Members are involved with the annual Stand Down event to support local veterans, and plan to work with The Fisher House Program for wounded soldiers. Soon, post members will be helping the United Service Organizations (USO) to welcome soldiers back from Japan after the country’s recent magnitude-9 earthquake and devastating tsunami. For information, involvement opportunities, donations or memberships, call (858) 488-3631 or email Herrera at [email protected].
