By. Alexis Hill, Intern
Manchester Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10904 held its annual All-American Celebration Saturday, August 8, recognizing another successful year for the local organization.
The Post celebrated earning its eighth consecutive VFW National All-American Post Award and its ninth consecutive VFW Tennessee All-State Post Award.
The Post also received the VFW State and National Community Service Awards, along with the Governor’s Volunteer Stars Award and other honors.
Air Force veteran Christie Conlee, the Post’s Junior Vice Commander, served as master of ceremonies for the event.
Several individuals were recognized for their service to the Post and the community.
Sandra Bennett of the Coffee County Historical Society received a VFW Exemplary Service Award for her work organizing Coffee County’s America 250 events.
Charles “David” King was also recognized for his work with the Post Auxiliary and other veterans organizations since 2018.
John Maier with the VFW Department of Tennessee received an Exemplary Service Award for his dedicated service, despite dealing with major health issues.
The Post Commendation Award, the highest award a Post member can receive, was presented to James L. Massingille for his exceptional volunteer work with the Post.
Betty L. Hamry was named the VFW Post Auxiliary’s Member of the Year.
The celebration included live music and a catered meal, along with an “America 250” theme. Attendees were invited to sign a replica of the Declaration of Independence, while King George III collected taxes from the “rebels.”
The event also included a special video highlighting the Post and a brief history of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Manchester.
