Photo provided by VFW Post 2632
CALIFORNIA, MD — Sacrifice is something every veteran understands.
The best way to thank a veteran for their service this weekend is to do it personally, said Matt Keferl, post commander at VFW Post 2632 in California.
“I give every member at our post a hearty hand shake and a pat on the back while thanking them personally for their service, no matter when or where they served,” said Keferl. “When you thank them, it means a lot to a veteran. Having people come up to me that I don’t even know and they thank me for my service makes me proud of what I did, and I’d do it all over again.”
Other ways to honor those who have served and sacrificed is continue to support American businesses, voting responsibly, and paying taxes, said Keferl.
“If we care about our Nation’s future and future generations, we have to be proactive and responsible,” said Keferl. “If someone wanted to know more about serving in the military, I would ask them to pull up a chair and let me tell them a story or two.”
Before commanding at VFW post 2632, Keferl enjoyed his time in the Armed Forces of the United States.
“I was a Senior Chief Petty Officer with United States Navy from 1988 to 2011. I specialized in aviation maintenance while serving on both east and west coasts of the United States,” said Keferl. “I participated in several EA-6B and A-6E squadrons, and taught ‘A’ school to Sailors and Marines.”
He also participated in tours with the Blue Angels, forward deployed Naval forces in Japan, and NAVAIR at the base. Being in the military has given him a sense of patriotism, said Keferl.
“There is no better way to become more patriotic then serving in the military. It gives you a sense of pride and honor,” said Keferl. “I spent time in many countries around the globe. As my years in the Navy progressed I started seeing the ‘big picture.’ So many people in these other countries are less fortunate than us and you understand what you’re you are serving for. It wasn’t about me. It was about our great nation and preserving and defending what we have here. Freedom.”
Aside from working full time, Keferl invests time volunteering for the many events at VFW Post 2632.
“I help out with everything from our cooking events, weekly drawings, fundraisers, and helping take care of the post home,” said Keferl. “I served as house committee chairman, junior and senior vice commander and am now finishing up my year as post commander.”
For more information about VFW Post 2632, check out their website and Facebook page.
Contact Jacqui Atkielski at j.atkielski@thebaynet.com.