Elvin Tate named State Commander of VFW

Veterans organization is looking to shore up its ranks with new members

By DONALD WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

In a ceremony held at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) regular meeting last month, Elvin Tate was officially named as the Commander of VFW for the State of Arkansas after previously serving as District 4 Commander, which covers several cities in eastern Arkansas, including Jonesboro, Paragould, and West Memphis.

Tate, a Desert Shield/Desert Storm veteran who served as a squad leader in the United States Army from 1982 to 1992, has a long history of service within the VFW. He joined the organization in 1996 and became a Life Member in 2006. Tate has previously served as the post Chaplain at his home post, the Marion/ West Memphis Post 5225, and held the position of District 4 Commander in 2013 and from 2020 to 2021.

“We want people to know that we are open to accepting new members,” stated Lance Bell, Vice President of the VFW Auxiliary. “Joining your local VFW or VFW Auxiliary has many advantages, especially for those who didn’t have the opportinuty to serve. The Auxiliary specifically is an opportunity to give back to your community.”

Bell emphasized the VFW’s mission to contribute to the community through various fundraising activities and sponsorships of local community centers, such as the Boys and Girls Clubs. He also mentioned the upcoming Sgt. Hoover Memorial run, to be held in Marion next week and their goal to educate young people on the importance of community involvement and patriotism.

To join the VFW, individuals must have served in combat overseas, while membership in the Auxiliary requires a family member who was a service member. The VFW meets on the second Tuesday of every month and there is usually food, catered by Ron’s Family Affair.

Upcoming events for the VFW include the Annual Commander Cup Golf Tournament at Meadowbrook Country Club on October 19 and the “Ribs and Butts” Fundraiser on September 21, benefiting local resident Brandon Davis in his fight against cancer. Tickets for these events are already on sale.

For more information on joining the VFW or upcoming events, individuals can contact the VFW at (870) 735-9102 or e-mail VfwPost5225@gmail. com.

[Editor’s Note: In the Wednesday, Aug. 28, edition of the Times, Tate’s promotion was erroneously reported as being named District 4 Commander, rather than Arkansas VFW State Commander. Our apologies for any confusion or misunderstanding]

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