Des Plaines VFW marks 75th year with Hometown Award

The Des Plaines Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2992 couldn't have received a better birthday present to mark its 75th anniversary.

Post members recently found out they are recipients of the 2009 Governor's Hometown Award.

Names of awardees have not been officially announced by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

The award recognizes the VFW's volunteer efforts during 2008. Members volunteered a total of 9,744 hours last year.

The group sends care packages to U.S. troops and coupons to military commissaries overseas and organizes citywide patriotic observances like Loyalty Day, Memorial Day and Veterans Day. The post also participates in Fourth of July, Patriots Day and Flag Day ceremonies, and sponsors patriotic programs for youth such as "Voice of Democracy," an essay-writing contest for high school-age students, and "Patriots Pen" for younger children.

Members also help organize community dinners at the First United Methodist Church, host a monthly bingo night at the North Chicago VA Medical Center, visit veterans at local nursing homes, perform memorial services for veterans, and support area Cub and Boy Scout troops.

"It's a privilege and an honor to serve the community and support our troops," said Vietnam veteran Mike Lake, a spokesman for the group. "We're grateful for the support that we get from residents of Des Plaines. We're hoping to win the Governor's Cup, which is the top award for the entire state."

The VFW's 75th anniversary celebration and fundraiser for its "Support the Troops" program begins at 6 p.m. Oct. 16 at Manzo's Restaurant & Banquets, 1571 Elmhurst Road, Des Plaines. For reservations, call (847) 452-6991.