The VFW Gets a Makeover
When I arrived at the Veterans of Foreign Wars on Oakes, I wasn't expecting to find Quartermaster Don Wischmann immediately in the large, unassuming building. Turns out he's there 50 to 60 hours each week, practically a fixture.
Wischmann is overseeing a remodel of the space, but took an hour out of his busy day to show me around and tell me about the VFW's history, purpose, and what he'd like to accomplish in 2019.
The stage in the hall upstairs with the paneling removed // Christopher Bragg
Today’s military is smaller, a far cry from World War II when 9 percent of the population was enlisted. It's tough to get new VFW members, but during Wischmann's tenure, Post 2100 was awarded State and National All-American Post, mainly due to his recruitment efforts.
Don was covered in drywall dust, but came prepared with a jacket in his truck // Christopher Bragg
Wischmann's a Navy veteran who did three tours to Vietnam and worked construction for 20 years after retiring. He likes to be busy and help people, and is passionate about the VFW.
It wasn't until his son retired from the military that he became fully aware of the earned benefits and support networks veterans can tap into.
Funds raised at Post 2100 mainly stay in Snohomish County. In the last year, Post 2100 provided $13,000 in direct assistance to 53 local veterans and families. They also donate to the local USO and therapeutic organizations like Salmon for Soldiers and Hope Horses 'N Heroes. District level meetings are held at Post 2100 and local posts help each other reach their fundraising goals.
If you'd like to donate locally to an impactful organization with low overhead, consider donating directly to the VFW or renting one of their halls for an event. The only paid employees at Post 2100 are the bartenders. All other work is done by volunteers.
Drinks, pull-tabs, and an internet jukebox. Pull up a seat! // Christopher Bragg
Although all the remodeling work is planned out and accounted for, if you'd like to help by donating time and labor in the future, introduce yourself to Wischmann so he can add you to his Rolodex. If you're a muralist, he could use your help with this wall in the downstairs hall.
Want to create something BIG? This mural could be yours to complete // Christopher Bragg
The remodel will be complete in early 2019 and unveiled to the public during an open house and street party. Keep an eye on the blog for the follow-up post with "after" photos, details about the event and more about what'll be happening at the post next year.
If you'd like to make a tax-deductible donation, mail a check or drop by:
Veterans of Foreign Wars
Old Guard Post 2100
2711 Oakes Avenue
Everett, WA 98201
Post Quartermaster Don Wischmann can be reached at
vfwpost2100@yahoo.com or 425-760-9031.
Christopher Bragg works from home in Everett and loves walking, swimming, and cats. You can find him all over town, but only if you keep weird hours and avoid crowds like he does.
