Salem VFW Post 892 members recently volunteered their time maintaining the World War I Memorial Building. From left, Steve Richards, Bill Syypko, post Commander Jim Moffett (standing), Ohio District 6 Commander Douglas Brannon, Mickie Syppko and Marlene Richards. (Submitted photo)

SALEM – May is officially recognized as National Military Appreciation Month in the United States, honoring both active-duty service members and veterans. Military Appreciation Month was initially recognized by a resolution in the U.S. Senate in 1999 and traditionally takes place every year throughout the entire month of May, reminding Americans to celebrate this patriotic month that pays tribute to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. The entire month is designated to honoring past and present military members and their families.

“Service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off,” said Carol Whitmore, VFW national commander. “The Still Serving campaign reminds us that veterans, to include the collective VFW, not only give back to our local communities, but we stand shoulder to shoulder with our fellow veterans, helping them navigate their VA benefits, advocating for enhanced quality of life programs and resources and ensuring no one is left behind. Veterans continue to answer the call, proving every day that the spirit of service lasts a lifetime.”

Past data from the Veterans Civic Health Index1, veterans average nearly 30 percent more volunteer hours per year and outpace civilians by 15 percent in charitable donations. Additionally, nearly 40 percent more veterans belong to a group working on community issues.

Since its launch, 6.5 million people have engaged with the campaign through the Still Serving website, videos and social channels. Additionally, more than 3,500 veterans have shared their personal stories of sacrifice and service.

Building on a legacy of service spanning over a century, the “Still Serving” initiative captures the essence of the VFW and its members, reflecting the ongoing evolution of today’s VFW Posts as a place where veterans can seek support, share camaraderie with those who have similar experiences and give back to both fellow veterans and the broader community. The VFW encourages veterans and their families to share stories on social media using #StillServing to showcase how they themselves continue to answer the call to serve or honor a veteran in their lives who believes the spirit of service transcends military life.

The Salem Memorial Building at 785 E. State St., has a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1924. It was built to serve as a community center for World War I servicemen and has since evolved into a multi-functional space for various community activities. Built in 1924 by the visionary W.H. Mullins, this memorial honors the city’s World War I veterans. For generations, the building has stood as a center of community pride and patriotic spirit, hosting countless dances, social gatherings, civic events, and athletic competitions that brought the people of Salem together in fellowship and remembrance. Through the years, renovations and improvements have preserved both its beauty and accessibility, ensuring it continues to serve future generations with dignity and purpose.

Today, the memorial stands not only as a historic landmark, but as a solemn tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of America’s servicemen and women, honoring all who have worn the nation’s uniform and the families who stood beside them in service to our country.

In observance of the National Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Day of Service, the members of Salem VFW Post 892 once again answered the call to serve their community with honor and dedication. Six VFW members volunteered their time at the World War I Memorial Building, performing grounds maintenance, planting flowers, and respectfully replacing a weathered American flag in tribute to those who served before us.

The VFW Post 892 welcomes visitors and new members at their location at 496 Arch St.