Our Objectives
The VFW Post 3272 is guided by a clear mission: to serve veterans, uphold American values, and strengthen our community.
1
Support Veterans
Provide assistance to the VFW Post, its members, and all veterans and veteran organizations whenever possible.
2
Foster Patriotism
Promote a genuine appreciation for those who serve and the institutions of American freedom, equal rights, and justice.
3
Defend America
Preserve and defend the United States of America from all her enemies, honoring the legacy of those who answered the call.
Americanism & Patriotism
Americanism
VFW members promote Americanism through Patriotic Education, Citizenship Education, and Flag Etiquette demonstrations — fostering love of country within our communities.
Patriotism
Through dedicated programs of loyalty and patriotism, the VFW honors veterans and active military who answered their country's call. Our National Flag is a living symbol of the respect and pride we have for our Nation.
Youth Programs
Today's children are tomorrow's leaders. The VFW is committed to educating youth about our nation's history, the honor owed to veterans, and the precious freedoms we enjoy.
Voice of Democracy
An annual audio essay competition encouraging students to appreciate the values veterans sacrificed for. Winners receive cash prizes and advance to district, state, and national levels.
Patriots Pen
A written essay competition with the same mission — instilling patriotic legacy in young people. The Post awards winners cash prizes and they compete at higher levels.
Avon High School Scholarship
The VFW sponsors a scholarship for Avon High School seniors who display values and contributions aligned with the mission of Post 3272.
Buddy Poppies
Buddy Poppies are a hand-made symbol of remembrance, crafted by handicapped veterans. The VFW purchases them — providing income for those veterans — then offers them to the public while soliciting donations for needy comrades and veteran organizations.
All funds raised are reserved exclusively for this cause. Post 3272 donates in excess of $12,000 annually to local and veteran charities in the Farmington Valley. This is a general outreach program for all veterans, not just VFW members.
Community & Youth Activities
Memorial Day Parade
The VFW organizes the Avon Memorial Day Parade, honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Veterans Day Activities
Annual events recognizing the service and sacrifice of all veterans in our community.
Grave Flag Placement
An American Flag is placed on every veteran's grave — a solemn tribute to their service.
School Outreach
Active in local schools, sponsoring programs that teach children about history, the Flag, and the debt owed to veterans.
Veteran Rehabilitation & Service
Rehabilitation means serving veterans and their families after they leave the hospital. Post 3272 reaches out through phone calls, cards, flowers, rides to church or the doctor, and social outings — making a bright spot in the day of senior veteran citizens.
The Post is also increasing its emphasis on homeless veteran services, working with shelters, missions, food banks, and thrift shops to provide for the needs of those most vulnerable among our veteran community.
VFW National Home
A Living Memorial
The VFW National Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan provides love, care, and education to children and grandchildren of deceased or disabled veterans. Set on 630 acres, it includes 70 buildings: brick homes, a library, chapel, community center, teen center, nursery school, and more.
The Health and Happiness Christmas Cheer Fund ensures every child receives a Christmas gift, along with gifts for their family members.
Historical Achievements of the VFW
For over a century, the VFW has fought tirelessly for veterans' rights and national recognition. Here are some landmark accomplishments:
Post-WWI
Fought for military pensions, compensation, and training for disabled veterans. Promoted and gained the WWI Bonus.
1930
Planned establishment of the Veterans Administration and supported creation of the GI Bill of Rights after WWII.
1970
Lobbied for creation of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee and fought for compensation for Vietnam vets exposed to Agent Orange.
Gulf War Era
Gained presumptive health care for Gulf War Syndrome victims and preserved exclusivity of the VA hospital system.
Ongoing
Donated $42M for cancer research, $607K to the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and over $200K to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Key Figures & Impact
$12K+
Annual Charity Donations
Donated annually to local and veteran charities in the Farmington Valley through Buddy Poppy fundraising.
$42M
Cancer Research
Donated over 43 years for cancer research and treatment nationwide.
$900K
Disaster Relief
Provided in national disaster relief since 1964.
300K
Care Packages
Provided to Desert Storm troops, funded by $500,000 raised by the VFW.
Join Us — Serve Your Community
The key to a well-functioning VFW is working closely with the community to reach out to veterans, their families, our youth, and each other. We strive to be a well-respected and integral part of Avon and the Farmington Valley — promoting patriotism, community service, and support for the future of our children.