When those who deploy to foreign countries wearing a uniform of the United States military return home, it can be hard to feel a sense of purpose in the civilian world.
For decades, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion have filled that void. But as times have changed, many younger veterans seek something different than what seems to many as a good ol’ boys club where older men get together to share drinks and stories of their time in service.
With this in mind, a few dozen local veterans have set up a new VFW post that focuses not on the old “canteen culture” but rather personal development through service, an opportunity for those who served in foreign wars to dedicate themselves to an organization that will reciprocate. Through that collective commitment, they can form stronger bonds with their sisters and brothers who’ve worn the uniform.
The new Clyde VFW post is headed up by Post Commander Sam Cahill, who deployed three times to Kuwait and Jordan and still holds the rank of Major in the Army Reserves. Formerly a member of the Waynesville VFW, Cahill wanted to create a new opportunity for younger generations with a different set of experiences to form relationships and have their needs met. She went to Tim Glance, the owner of Old Grouch’s Military Surplus in Clyde, a fellow Army veteran who deployed to Afghanistan almost two decades ago.
The post was officially certified on Oct. 16 and, for now, holds its meetings at Old Grouch’s, although members hope to nail down a permanent location soon. To stand up, a post must have 25 members, including 10 qualified veterans who’ve never before joined the VFW. The new Clyde post now has 32 members, and Cahill said others have shown interest.
The new post will break with tradition by not having a “canteen,” which is basically a post bar. Cahill noted that nowhere in the VFW’s mission does it mention a canteen, although they have become a vital tool to support posts financially and over time have become a part of the culture. Cahill hopes to appeal to the younger generation of veterans that has more so shunned the drinking culture.
“The current (VFW) Commander in Chief, his initiative is called the Warrior Challenge, and it’s about getting out and being active,” Cahill said.
Glance said that notion appealed to him, adding that he is exploring the idea of having a coffee bar in lieu of booze.
“We had one gentleman share his story of recovery and how veterans helped him,” Glance said. “He came because he heard there would be no alcohol.”
Instead, the post hopes to focus on community service and the camaraderie on a singular mission creates. Cahill hopes to partner with other community service organizations to expand their philanthropic reach. In addition, the post will work to help veterans navigate struggles in their own lives, including the complicated process of receiving VA benefits and healthcare.
But there will still be room for fun. The canteen may soon feature E sports options for those who enjoy video games, a vital stress reliever for many who deploy in the modern military.
Among the membership of the new post is Bill Wilke, who has served as Haywood County Sheriff the last four years but lost his recent bid for reelection. Wilke retired from the Army in 2021 at the rank of Colonel and had previously deployed to Iraq. Wilke said he was a member of the VFW years ago but that he didn’t really do anything with it at the time, since he felt the post was more interested in drinking than personal development. However, a friend recently gave him a call, encouraging him to check out what Cahill and the crew were up to.
“The group there and the folks that I’ve talked to were all like-minded … that’s kind of why we all got together,” he said.
Wilke has worked over the years counseling law enforcement officers through the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and will serve as the post chaplain. While he is strong in his Christian faith, he made it clear that his role, like much of the other chaplain work he’s done, will be nondenominational. His work is about offering spiritual and moral guidance, regardless of anyone’s faith or lack thereof.
“You reach people where they are, and you’re like, ‘Hey, this is this is what I found helpful. You may find it helpful for yourself.’ If I can’t do that, I try to find a resource that can,” he said.
The post will aim to be diverse and inclusive, not just in terms of personal faith, but also in every other manner. One criticism of VFW posts over the years has been their attitude toward female veterans, which can range from patronizing to downright creepy. Cahill is focused on recruiting women who, like her, served overseas but feel uncomfortable in many male-dominated settings meant to bring veterans together. With two female veterans holding the top positions at the post, they’re off to a better start than many such organizations.
This also appeals to Wilke.
“It’s just like the military,” he said. “I mean, you got people from all walks of life, and it’s an extension of service. And we kind of rely on each other. We all share similar experiences, and this contributes to your overall health. You can’t ever just turn it off and walk away.”