Inducting a new member highlighted events during All-American Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 914 Intrepid West Mifflin’s monthly meeting June 29 at the Thompson Run Athletic Association. Joseph Decaria, who served in the United States Navy both on active duty and in the reserves for 37 years, was sworn in as a new member while his son, Daniel, looked on.
“We are fortunately here in West Mifflin to have veterans who are eager to serve their community after their military obligations are completed,” said Bradich. “Our success and commitment is measured with each dedicated member who is willing to volunteer their time, and live the VFW’s motto of honoring the dead by helping the living.”
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Decaria’s lengthy service record included tours to support military operations in Lebanon, Grenada and the Persian Gulf. Accompanying Decaria at the meeting was his son and 2017 West Mifflin Area High School graduate Daniel, who recently enlisted in the United States Army as an infantryman. A former West Mifflin Air Force JROTC cadet, the younger Decaria will be attending basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia, within the next few weeks.
The elder Decaria was sponsored for post membership by World War II Marine veteran and Life Member, Earl Birdy.
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“It is good to see a family have this type of commitment,” said Birdy, a retired educator who worked at Carnegie Mellon University. “It is especially refreshing to see younger people who are eager to sacrifice so much to help others.”
Prior to the ceremony, Commander Bradich reported on activities during the 98th Annual State Convention of the VFW Department of Pennsylvania at the Doubletree by Hilton in Green Tree, where the post received an award for community service. Financial reports were heard from Quartermaster Gary Ruston. Post Surgeon General Bernie Zurawski discussed upcoming hospital visits, and Post Chaplain Gene Staudt lead the opening and closing prayers.
Also at the meeting, Post Junior Vice Commander David Luikart presented a Buddy Poppy report, and Ways and Means Chairman Jim Brickner commented on items to be raffled off by the post during West Mifflin Borough’s annual Community Day Aug. 12 at the Allegheny Airport.
For more information about VFW Post 914 and its activities, visit the group’s website at: http://traa.weebly.com/vfw-post-914.html
