Our recent Public Relations meeting was packed with meaningful updates and forward-looking plans. Here’s a summary of key discussions and announcements:
We were honored to welcome Paul (Andrew) Gray from the VA, who led a powerful session on suicide prevention titled VA SAFE Training. Members learned how to recognize warning signs, offer support, and connect fellow veterans to life-saving resources. This training reinforces our commitment to veteran wellness and proactive outreach.
To strengthen our digital presence, we’re seeking a Webmaster and Assistant Webmaster. If you have experience or interest in website management, please reach out—we’d love to have your support in keeping our communications timely and impactful.
Sept 2 – Officers Meeting
🕕 6:00 PM at Post 280
Leadership planning and updates—officers encouraged to attend.
Sept 5 – Poker Night at Post 280 and Post 202
🃏 7PM
Join us for cards, camaraderie, and a meal—Post 280 will be serving food.
Sept 5–7 – Cootie C of A at the Lake
🎖️ All Weekend
A gathering of the Military Order of the Cootie—details available through district channels.
Sept 8 – VFW Post 280 Membership Meeting
📍 Post 280
All members welcome—stay informed and engaged.
Sept 10 – Military Mornings at Truman Bar & Grill
☕ 8:00 AM
Veterans gathering for coffee and conversation. A great way to connect.
Sept 9–14 – Bike Fest at the Lake
🏍️ All Day
A regional favorite - VFW Riders Group will have a large booth set up to endorse the VFW at bike fest. We hope everyone can attend
Sept 11 – Patriot Day
National Day of Remembrance
Take time to honor those lost and those who serve.
Sept 17 – Columbia Fun Days at Albert Oakland Park
🎉 6pm-8pm
Family-friendly festivities—Post 280 presence encouraged.
Sept 17 – American Legion Meeting
🕖 7:00 PM
Support our fellow veterans and stay connected across organizations.
Sept 18 – Boone County Ready Festival at Cosmo Park
🚨 4:00–8:00 PM
Hosted by the Boone County Office of Emergency Management, this family- and pet-friendly event features food trucks, emergency response vehicles, live music, and preparedness activities.
Sept 19 – Fish Fry in Hartsburg
🐟 4:30–8:00 PM
Great food and fellowship. All are welcome!
Sept 20 – Pancake Breakfast
🥞 8am - 11am
Featuring a visit from the Missouri Veterans Commission—a great opportunity for veterans to connect.
Sept 20 – POW/MIA Recognition Day
🎗️ All Day
Honoring those who were prisoners of war and those still missing in action.
Sept 20 – Urban Farm Hootenanny
🎶 4:00–8:00 PM at Columbia’s Agriculture Park
Live music, local food, and family fun. Proceeds support CCUA’s programming.
🔗 Event details
Oct 7 – Fall Farm Festival
🍂 4:00–7:00 PM
Seasonal celebration—details to follow in next month’s newsletter.
Nov 8 – Buddy Poppy Drive
🌺 Locations TBD
Volunteers welcome—this is a vital fundraiser and awareness campaign.
April 25, 2026 – Family Fun Day
🎈 All Day | Alternate date: May 2, 2026
Planning is underway for a day of celebration, connection, and community.
Welcome to the Public Relations Committee of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 280. Our mission is to enhance the visibility and reputation of the VFW through strategic communication and community engagement. We aim to foster a positive image of the VFW by highlighting our commitment to veterans, their families, and our communities.