It was a busy summer at VFW Post 1454 with many activities for our Members, Auxiliary and community to enjoy. Here's a look back at a few of the highlights.

Goldie is a Charter Auxiliary Member of Leslie C. McLean Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1454, the eldest VFW Post in Gratiot County, MI. At 93 years young, Goldie is the eldest Auxiliary Member of our Post. To call her an active member is an understatement though. Goldie has been our Post's reigning "Poppy Drive Champion" for more consecutive years than we can count. This year was no exception. Goldie dedicated 23 hours of volunteer time to our poppy drive efforts, singlehandedly raising $740.00 in donations!

Goldie is a valuable and much loved member of our Auxiliary & our Post. Goldie is the widow of U.S. Army WWII Veteran, Ronald E. Kanine (1923-2014). Ronald received 3 Purple Hearts during his time of service. He married Goldie on April 26, 1946. The Kanines lost their son Jack E. Kanine, Vietnam Veteran, SP 4 U.S. Army, (1949-1981) age 31 as a result of Agent Orange. Although the Kanine family has sacrificed much for our nation and our freedoms, Goldie continues her mission of dedicated service to our nation, our Veterans, our Post and our community.

​Please join us in salute to Goldie Kanine for her dedication and support to all. We appreciate all of your efforts Goldie, and we applaud your outstanding poppy drive proceeds!

Leslie C. McLean Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW Post 1454's Memorial Day Ceremony took place on Memorial Day, Monday, May 31st, 2021. It was a beautiful day with many turning out to honor our nation's Fallen Heroes. Guests at the Memorial Day Ceremony were also invited to join our Post & Auxiliary Members for coffee, doughnuts and fellowship at the Post following the ceremony. Our thanks to all who attended. 

On May 2, 2021, VFW Post 1454 was honored to participate once again in the dedication of the Michigan Elks Field of Honor at Alma Elks Lodge #1400. The special honorees this year were our Nation's first responders, EMS, doctors, nurses, dispatchers, firefighters & police force. The Field of Honor Ceremony also honors all branches of our Military, Veterans and POW/MIA.

Our Post's 1st Annual Corn Hole Competition was a success with many turning out to enjoy the games. Congratulations to our 1st Place Winners Jared & Devin, 2nd Place Winners Alesha & Austin and 3rd Place Winners Darren & Trent. Our thanks to all of our players and those who turned out to cheer them on. Special thanks to our wonderful group of volunteers who make these events possible and to our Club Manager Ellen for always being the best sport of all!