Arlington VFW Post 981 Celebrates 100 Years
On Saturday October 8 2022 Arlington Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 981 celebrated 100 years of service with a gala celebration.
More than 100 members and guests gathered at the Concorde Banquets in Kildeer for cocktails, appetizers, food and dancing to the Sandi Haynes Orchestra. Distinguished guests included Thomas Hayes, Mayor of Arlington Heights and State of Illinois VFW Commander Bobby Edwards. Post Commander Matt Voss was presented with the Arlington Heights Official Proclamation by Mayor Hayes and a Century Award from the VFW by Commander Edwards. The Post honored WWII veteran members Frank Fabianski and Clarence Placek who were in attendance.
The Post received its charter from the National VFW on October 5 1922 and began meeting at the Fireman's Room in Arlington (not yet Heights) Village Hall. Various meeting locations later, including its own clubhouse on Northwest Hwy and Yale from 1955 to 2002, the 175 members of the Post now use the American Legion Post 208 facilities on Douglas in Arlington Heights.
From its inception the Post has fought for veterans rights. In 1923 it registered veterans for the State of Illinois WW1 veteran's bonus. In 2022 it lobbied successfully for treatment of burn-pit related ailments from Enduring Freedom and other conflicts. It has provided help to veterans, active duty service people and their families through financial support generated most especially by the distribution of Buddy Poppies around Memorial Day. It has been a refuge for those affected by the strain of war where they have enjoyed the comradery of others who have experienced the same difficulties upon re-entering civilian life. The Post Color Guard has comforted families by honoring deceased veterans with a rile salute and the playing of taps. Finally, the Post has served not only the Arlington Heights community but those of surrounding towns with its participation in parades, events at its clubhouse including the famous Friday Fish Fry and outreach at various festivals and farmers markets.