VFW Marks 75th Anniversary In Horsham

HORSHAM TOWNSHIP, PA —For 75 years, the Horsham Veterans of Foreign Wars Post carried on, even when it looked like its days were done.

Not long ago, the VFW was contemplating donating its property on 324 Saw Mill Lane back to the township. Times were tough and the VFW didn't think it could continue, township officials said.

"You've really bounced back," Township Manager Bill Walker told Commander Bob Hartnett as Horsham Township Council presented a proclamation honoring the post for its 75th anniversary at last week's meeting.

The post, which was founded in 1948, has made a comeback. Some would say, it has reinvented itself.

The VFW now features live entertainment and bands and is "trying to be as active as you can in the community," Walker said.

Any resident can visit the VFW without being a veteran just for the social aspects like the entertainment and buffets. It costs $20 to be a social member.

The VFW rents out its hall too for birthday parties, baby showers, and other events.

The bar area was redone. There were also new tables and chairs and the walls and floors were redone as well.

"We're very happy they did not close," Walker said.

Councilman Sean Wade, as a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps., is a VFW member.

Council President Mark McCouch read the proclamation, stating that many VFWs didn't survive the pandemic.

The 17 founding members "built the building from the ground up."

Hartnett thanked the township for recognizing the VFW.

"It means a lot to the veterans to think how important the VFW is for every community," he said.

Hartnett said the VFW gets calls to help veterans who can't afford groceries anymore.

"Having survived all adversity over the years, their members proudly represent the strength of our community," township officials said. "We congratulate them on their success and wish them many more years to come!"