End of an era for Medford VFW post

Saturday marked the end of an era for Medford VFW Post 5729 with a ceremony to formally decommission the post’s building as they transition into a new facility later this fall.

“We are here today for the last gathering at the old Medford VFW post. Soon we will be moving into the new building and the original post will complete its decades of long service to our local veterans and the community,” said Jeff Hein, who has been active throughout the process of fundraising for a new home for the VFW post.

“Every veteran proudly remembers the day they entered service, and fondly remembers the day when they left the service and returned home, no matter how long the service in between those days was. While the reason we are here today is a somber occasion, as we witness the end of a long and service-filled life, there is no reason to be sad. The memories created here are of life, happiness, and pride,” Hein said. “If these old floor boards could talk they would tell us that they were tread by men and women who served this nation and came home to help bring the Medford community from the prewar small town that it was to the industry powerhouse that it now is in central Wisconsin. Veterans of every war since have followed behind them. It wouldn’t be correct to say that over these years, everything went smoothly. There were times of fracture and division, just like in other parts of life, but leaders stepped forward and brought the post into a new millennium, and today we look forward to a long and vibrant future as a veterans post that continues to serve fellow veterans and our community.

Since those post-war days, these walls have witnessed many welcome home parties, weddings, reunions and meetings. Generations of veterans have spent time here over the course of more than 75 years. When I look around the room I can feel the presence of those many veterans who came before those of us that are here tonight.”

“They sat at the bar and tipped a glass in salute to a fallen friend, they sat at a table and fixed medical equipment for the loan closet, and cleaned honor guard rifles together. They came together in camaraderie to remember common experiences and they put forth the effort to support our community. Through the funeral honor guard they provided the last military rites to our fallen comrades They led parades and attended high school sporting events with the color guard, gathered clothes for needy veterans and acquired and lent out medical equipment to anyone who needed it.”

Hein noted that in addition to the VFW, the building has been a meeting place for other veterans organizations including American Legion Post 147, and the VFW Auxiliary which have made major contributions to the Medford area.

VFW Post Commander Nick Lemke also spoke during the decommissioning ceremony.

“Generations of veterans have called this place home. Their fathers, uncles, and grandfathers were all members of this post and today mothers, daughters, and sisters have joined us as well,” Lemke said.

“This building, with its many memories, has been a testament to the sacrifices made for our country. While it's sad to say goodbye to this place, its spirit will be passed on to the new VFW building and the camaraderie will continue, and new memories will be made,” he said. “For 75 years, this VFW post was a beacon of service, a place where veterans found friendship and support. The walls of this building could tell many stories of laughter, tears, and the unbreakable bonds of comradeship. And we cannot forget the countless acts of charity, the patriotic programs, and the fellowship that defined our time here.”

“The construction of our new building is nearly complete. In the coming days we will witness the demolition of the old building and an era will pass. But this is not just about replacing an aging VFW post. It is an opportunity for growth, and to re-energize the VFW,” Lemke said.

“A new generation of veterans is called to stand ready to carry on the traditions of the VFW’s service to veterans and the community in which we live, and I call on those veterans to join us. Help us continue these traditions of service, and help us find new and innovative ways to serve. It is an opportunity for us to provide a space in the community that better fits the modern needs of our community. Deep and heartfelt thanks go out to every member, volunteer, and community supporter who made this post a success for so many years,” Lemke said.