At their May 11th meeting, Leland VFW Post 12196 took time to recognize individuals for their service to the community. Mayor Brenda Bozeman received recognition for her continued steadfast support for all veterans. Post Commander Gerald Decker commented, “Mayor Bozeman has always been there for us on anything we need. We are very fortunate to have Mayor Bozeman in our corner.”

Emergency Management Director, and former Leland Fire Chief, John Grimes was recognized as the “Safety Officer of the Year” by VFW Post 12196. Mr. Grimes was also recognized as VFW North Carolina District 5 Safety Officer of the Year. Chief Grimes has been an outstanding public servant of the Leland area for many years.  

Mrs. Anna Barefoot Saunders, English and Journalism teacher at West Brunswick High School, was recognized as the “Teacher of the Year.” Ms. Saunders sets the standard for commitment and dedication to the students at West Brunswick High School and the profession of teaching. 

Families of three deceased Comrades during the past year were recognized for their military service and the extraordinary dedication and service to others during their careers. Edmund Carleton Brown – a decorated veteran of WWII, Pacific Theater of Operation, a business owner, and philanthropist.  Paul Phillips – who served on the USS. North Carolina in 1945 and served during WWII, Korean War, and the Vietnam War.  Pete Erbe – a Vietnam veteran, instructor at West Point, and former NC Kiwanis President and Kiwanis Citizen of the Year. The families of the deceased veterans will receive a “VFW Resolution of Remembrance” and a U. S. Flag on behalf of Post 12196.

Commander Decker also took time to recognize outstanding service to the community by members of Post 12196. Among those were Jr. Vice Commander Eric Mens, Quartermaster Don Spaulding, Chaplain Nate Pringle, Post Adjutant Jim Rich, and Post Trustees John Marone and Dominick Calderone, Jr. 

VFW Post 12196 meets the second Tuesday of each month at Blossoms Restaurant in Magnolia Greens at 7 pm. At the June 8 meeting, Commander-elect Jason Gaver will be sworn in as the new Commander for 2021-2022.

 (l to r) Mayor Brenda Bozeman, Ms. Anna Barefoot Saunders, Charles and Debra
Cooke, Chief John Grimes, and VFW Post 12196 Commander Gerald Decker.
 

Debra Cooke, Commander Decker, Chaplain Nate Pringle