Plano's VFW Post At Risk Of Closing
PLANO (CBSDFW.COM)- A Pearl Harbor Day tradition in Plano of saluting those who served may be coming to an end.
Just as they have for the past several years on this day of remembrance, on Sunday volunteers at Plano's VFW Post 4380 picked up veterans from the VA Hospital and brought them by way of a Patriot Guard escort to the post for the day,
For many of these veterans it's a rare chance to get away.
However, post commander Gary Weger said his post is struggling financially to remain open. He said the all-volunteer staff has tried everything in the past several months to try and stay open.
"The problem is dedication doesn't pay the bills," said Weger. "We are struggling monthly to pay the rent at this location."
The post is tucked away back in a shopping strip off of Parker Road just west of Hwy 75 in Plano. The post recently moved to its new smaller location to save money but now is struggling to even afford that.
For 30 years Post 4380 has provided a safe haven of sorts for veterans in Collin County.
Moses Johnson, a US Air Force veteran, said it's the one place he feels at home.
"I can be myself here," Johnson said. "A lot of veterans have PTSD … A lot of people say he's off. He's crazy and stuff. We're just different."
Johnson said the veterans at the post understand his struggles.
Along with no longer providing a place for veterans to gather and fellowship, Weger said what makes the potential of closing of the post difficult is knowing it was named in memory of Army Ranger and Plano Senior High School graduate Casey Joyce.
In 1993, Joyce was killed as he attempted to save the life of one of his fellow soldiers in a raid attack in Somalia. The mission was made famous by the book and movie "Black Hawk Down."
"We want to keep his spirit and his memory alive," said Weger. "We don't want to lose that."
Pictures of Joyce along with his dog tags, medals, and a written story are on display at the post.
Weger said, "It would be a shame if here in the city of Plano if we can't maintain a VFW."
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