RENO POST SETS EXAMPLE OF SERVICE
Tuesday, October 1, 2013

VFW Post 3819 adopts military unit.

VFW Post 3819 members and friends at the "Dancing With the Stars" event at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino.

Bill Maltman, Commander of VFW Post 3819 in Reno, is from a long line of service.

“My father served in three wars,” said Maltman. “My two brothers also served, one in France and one in Vietnam. I fought in Vietnam and was shot Thanksgiving Day 1966.”

Maltman, who was introduced to the VFW by a WWII veteran and friend, was inspired to adopt a military unit by his own experiences after the war.

“Being able to help troops is always a plus,” said Maltman. “Vietnam vets didn’t benefit from that kind of assistance, for the most part. Our soldiers need to know they’re not forgotten and that the VFW has their back.”

With this in mind, Maltman and his Post adopted all the units in the 991^st Troop Command out of Stead, Nev., through the VFW Adopt-A-Unit program.

“We try to support all their activities and events in some way,” said Maltman. “These are future members, so how could we ever say no?”

Last Christmas, Post 3819 provided 140 families with food baskets and sent care packages to deployed troops.

Recently, Maltman and VFW Post 3819 provided all the food for a send-off for new recruits and their families. More than 150 people came out for burgers and dogs, a climbing wall, DJ, bounce house and a helicopter tour. There was even a class for new recruits to inform them of the many ways the VFW is here for them, and their families, after they deploy.

One of the adopted units, the 168^th Medial, is currently deployed, and Maltman is busy planning the welcome home they deserve. His Post is also planning to provide food to more than 700 people at an upcoming Changing of the Guard event.

“We will continue to be here for these units in any way we can,” said Maltman.

And Post 3819 does more than help one unit, they have been very successful in raising money to help veterans and their families nationwide.

Last year, they hosted a “Dancing With the Stars” event at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino to raise money for VFW programs. They gathered local celebrities and support from local businesses. More than 1,500 people attended. The formal event raised $35,000 for crucial VFW programs.

“If it weren’t for my comrades at Post 3819, none of this would be possible. I am proud to be Commander of such an active Post,” Maltman concluded.

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