Just one year shy of a century in operation, the Keith-Holmes VFW Post 402 is poised for growth and ready for its next chapter. In honor of Memorial Day, join us in taking a closer look at an organization that not only honors those who serve and protect our country, but that has helped shape its community through customs and traditions rooted in patriotism.
History
The Post signed its original Charter in a 2nd floor meeting room on Mill Street in downtown Coraopolis in Spring 1922. But its story started even before that, with Rev. Michael Wilson Keith, a U.S. Army Chaplain, and Sgt. John Arthur Holmes.
Both Keith and Holmes served in World War I and died bravely in combat during the “War to End All Wars.”
Upon their return home, those who served with Rev. Keith and Sgt. Holmes made the choice to memorialize their fellow soldiers’ bravery by deeming them namesakes of the new post.
Keith-Holmes VFW Post 402 broke ground at 412 Mulberry Street on Christmas in 1940. The building, designed by T. Ed Cornelius and built by J. J. Trunick & Sons, cost $30,000. It has been open for members since May 30, 1941.
It’s original World War II monument on the corner of 5th Avenue and Mulberry was designed in 1965 by architect Louis Gilberti - a name that Coraopolis natives will recognize - and completed in 1973. The Post added its iconic WWI Dough-boy in 2011.
Present Day
The VFW 402 building circa 1950.
As some may have noticed, our local Dough-boy recently underwent a makeover, with a shiny new exterior to go along with the Post’s brand new memorial corner.
“Our membership made the decision to move forward [with the new memorial] that would lower ongoing maintenance costs, be fully accessible, and honor veterans from all major foreign conflicts,” said Steve Miller, president of the Post’s Board of Directors.
The newly complete Memorial Corner.
The total cost of the new memorial topped $110,000. The project benefited greatly from over 1,000 volunteer hours logged by their members. Miller said the residents of Coraopolis and surrounding communities have been generous in showing their support through the paver program and private donations.
“Overall, we raised nearly 70% of the cost, making the memorial our single largest fundraiser in recent history. We also had major help from the merger of the Donald T. Campbell VFW Post 5756 in Sewickley. Without them, we would still be fundraising,” said Miller.
Sales of engraved pavers are ongoing, and Miller strongly encourages all local businesses and families to support the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of this community centerpiece by purchasing a brick if possible.
In addition to the memorial campaign, the Post sustains itself by renting out the VFW’s great hall, which recently underwent significant facility upgrades and notably took the initiative to make the Post completely smoke-free as of January 1, 2021.
Miller said the leadership team, led by Commander Mike Blair, wants to ensure the Post offers the local community a facility they can be proud of for years to come. “We want to leave the legacy of the old smoky bar in the past, and make sure our members have a comfortable place to enjoy,” he said.
The Post continues to sponsor its core programs that support veterans at the local, state, and national level such as the Patriot Pen and Voice of Democracy scholarship for local youth, VFW National Home for Children, special recognition of local first responders and numerous programs that support and assist both active duty military and veterans.
“VFW Post 402 is far more than just a veterans social organization. Many people are unaware of the various programs that support the community and veterans. Our members are from all branches of the military and the various wars and conflicts from WWII to the current Global War on Terrorism,” said Miller.
The WWI Dough-boy as it sits atop the VFW’s new Memorial Corner.
Looking Ahead
The Post looks forward to continuing their strong ties with local citizens, businesses, churches, government, educational institutions and community oriented organizations that have become part of the fabric of the VFW due to the close-knit nature of the neighborhood.
They also enjoy being part of the resurgence that is currently taking place. “Coraopolis is an up and coming town. The people are genuine, hard working, and honest. You know your network is only 1 or 2 persons away from someone that you went to high school with, or friends with your parents...or had a regular spot down at the VETS,” commented Miller.
Future initiatives include bringing the post into compliance with the ADA so that members and guests can more easily access the entire facility, resuming in-person programs once the COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions are lifted, and of course, resuming its famous Memorial Day Parade.
Due to COVID-19 limitations, the Post has had to make the difficult decision to cancel the parade two years in a row. However, they have many activities planned this month around town that will commemorate the holiday in a safe manner.
For those who want to help with the VFW’s work, Miller suggests spreading the word about the Post’s programs, advocacy for veterans, upcoming events, and fundraisers. “It’s paramount we all continue to work together towards bettering the community,” he said.
A Week of Celebrations for Memorial Day 2021:
Tuesday, May 25th: Placing flags in local cemeteries
Saturday, May 29th: Buddy Poppy fundraiser at local store fronts
*Money raised from our Buddy Poppy program goes directly toward our programs to support veterans in financial distress.
Sunday, May 30th: Honor Roll Tribute to our fallen comrades at 13 local cemeteries and memorials
Monday, May 31st: Official Memorial Dedication
*11 am - 1 pm at Mulberry Street & 5th Avenue
Food Trucks will be available serving burgers, hotdogs, BBQ, tacos, and ice cream.