Press Releases
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman honored Van Buren’s Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1322, the oldest VFW post in Arkansas, on its 90th anniversary in the Congressional Record, the official proceedings of Congress.
Boozman’s staff will present a copy of the Congressional Record during the ceremony celebrating the post’s 90th anniversary on Saturday. The following are remarks printed in the Congressional Record:
Mr. President, I rise today to honor the oldest Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Arkansas. VFW Post No. 1322 in Van Buren, Arkansas is celebrating its 90th anniversary.
Founded February 13, 1925, the post was named in honor of Robert W. Jack – the first casualty of WWI from Crawford County. Robert Jack was 23-years-old when he was killed by shrapnel on September 22, 1918, in the fourth day of the famous allied drive of St. Mihiel.
As a member on the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I understand the importance of acknowledging the bravery and valor of the young men and women who fought in defense of our country. Men like Robert Jack, and members of VFW Post 1322, set their personal lives aside to fight for our country. This post recognizes their service, sacrifice and courage.
Members are dedicated to improving the community and the lives of its members; offering scholarships to students, teaching flag etiquette to classes, providing local transportation for veterans and hosting community events.
As the Robert Jack VFW Post 1322 proudly celebrates its 90th anniversary, the building is also celebrating the 65th anniversary of its groundbreaking. In recent years, the building was in desperate need of maintenance. Members banded together and worked with local organizations and businesses to provide funds for extensive repairs. This is a true testament to the importance of Post 1322 in the community.
I congratulate VFW Post 1322 on its 90th anniversary. I wish members the best of luck and many more years of camaraderie, service and investment in the community.