Three Rivers VFW Post 1324 Auxiliary

06/12/2026

Thank you to all of our female veterans!

Today is is National Women Veterans Recognition Day.

As explained by the VA, this is not a Veterans Day just for women, but a celebration of the signing of the Women's Armed Services Integration Act in 1948, which was significant in that is allowed women the right to permanently and fully serve in the regular armed forces (and to be recognized as veterans after doing so).

Prior to the signing of this act, military women (save for nurses) were sent home after each conflict. Many were not treated as veterans who served their nation, but like civilians. They were often denied the rights and benefits afforded to men who'd served beside them, simply because of their gender. The act "deemed women essential to war efforts and allowed them to serve in the regular armed forces full time," (Missina Schallus, VA news).

Women have served in conflicts and wars throughout America's history, including the Civil War and the Revolutionary War, in positions as nurses and support staff (and even as spies!).

The VA notes, "Currently, Women Veterans Recognition Day is a state-recognized commemoration. This year, the states of Alaska, California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah... and Wisconsin will recognize" it, as will the Virgin Islands.

With that in mind, today and every day we salute women veterans, regardless of when, where, how or how long they served, or whether they reside in a state that recognizes the holiday. Thank you all.

06/04/2026

June is PTS(D) Awareness Month.

While post-traumatic stress does not solely affect veterans, veterans are statistically more likely than the general public to suffer the effects of PTS(D), with a documented 6% of male veterans and 13% of female veterans experiencing it in their lifetimes (though actual numbers may be substantially higher, as many of those who struggle with post-traumatic stress do not seek diagnosis or treatment). The number of veterans diagnosed with PTS(D) is higher among those who've served in recent conflicts (for example, up to 29% of Iraqi Freedom veterans) than those who served nearly a century ago (3% of WWII and Korean War veterans) but it is important to remember that what we now know as PTS(D) was known by a number of other names in the past: "Shell Shock," "Battle Fatigue," "Soldier's Heart," "Combat Stress Reaction" and even the misleading "Nostalgia."

“Asking for support is not waving a white flag, it is a tactical decision to stay in the fight for your family, your future and your life,” said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore.

As a VFW Auxiliary members, you can help by knowing the signs, memorizing the Veterans Crisis Line number and sharing resources with those in need. Use the linked articles below to get started.

The VFW is shining a spotlight on PTS(D) this June. Read their article here: https://www.vfw.org/media-and-events/latest-releases/archives/2026/6/vfw-highlights-importance-of-mental-health-this-national-ptsd-awareness-month

The VA shares the basics of PTS(D), including signs:
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/ptsd_basics.asp

The VA also has linked resources for those who need help:
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/

For those having suicidal thoughts or feelings, or feelings of hopelessness, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7.
Just dial 988, then press 1.

For a brief history on the usage of PTSD versus older terms like shell shock, see this History Channel article:
https://www.history.com/articles/history-of-ptsd-and-shell-shock

05/27/2026

If you or a neighbor has a worn, damaged, or faded flag, please consider bringing it to the VFW and deposit it here. Read more details below! Thank you!

🇺🇸🗽

🇺🇸 Flag Day – Honor the Flag 🇺🇸

On June 14th, we celebrate Flag Day—a time to honor the Stars and Stripes as a symbol of our nation’s freedom, unity, and the sacrifices made to protect it.

Do you have a worn, faded, or damaged American flag? Please don’t throw it away.

Our VFW Post proudly provides a Flag Disposal Drop Box to ensure that unserviceable flags are retired with the dignity and respect they deserve through a proper ceremonial process.

📍 Drop off your flags at our Post anytime
🎖️ All flags are respectfully retired according to the U.S. Flag Code

Join us in showing respect for our nation’s flag and everything it represents.

🇺🇸 Never forget what it stands for. 🇺🇸

05/26/2026

Did you know with the Auxiliary's dedicated crafty volunteers there are numerous blankets, hats, pillows, bibs, and many other items being created? This is in support of our local veterans and their families, as well as our local active duty service members and their families. Our outreach knows no age! There is an abundance of care that goes into each and every piece, which are donated to local hospitals, family readiness groups or ombudsman, and nonprofit organizations. If you would like to get involved in some capacity, please reach out directly!

05/25/2026

We have some burgers and hot dogs coming off the grill!

05/25/2026

05/25/2026

For Memorial Day, the VFW Post 1324 has many pieces of military memorabilia on display. We are open til about 2:00PM. Come on over to take a look at some of these interesting pieces, enjoy some lunch with us, and maybe even hear some stories from our local veterans. Bring your family and friends. Invite your veteran neighbor.

05/25/2026

The Three Rivers VFW Post 1324 in Oregon City will be open with military displays available to view. Stick around for a lunch from our barbecue cookout! We look forward to meeting you.

05/24/2026

We wish you a beautiful and safe Memorial Day weekend.