Thursday, October 1, 2026
“Land of the Free, Because of the Brave.”
This creed is posted on a mantle that members of the East Rockaway Veterans of Foreign War walk under each and every time they enter their beloved VFW Post No. 3350.
With veterans from World War II, the Korean, Vietnam and Persian Gulf wars, along with those currently overseas in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan as members, the East Rockaway VFW has long been dedicated to providing assistance to all veterans, active military personnel and their families, along with being a foundation and support for the community.
Formed more than a century ago, the Veterans of Foreign Wars is considered one of the oldest and most recognized organizations in America today. The national organization currently has 1.5 million members belonging to 7,644 posts. It is the largest organization of combat veterans in America.
Meeting at their hall on Main Street every day for breakfast, the members often sit around drinking coffee, eating bagels, telling stories and cracking jokes — sometimes at their own expense — in an effort to continue the camaraderie that formed when they were serving overseas in their units.
“We’re currently the biggest branch in Nassau County with 153 members,” said Post Commander Joseph McCarthy, “and we hope to one day be the number-one branch in New York State, based on our work done in the community. We really do feel that call to serve, and even though we’re not on active duty anymore, we still feel the need to help out each other and everyone around us.” “It really is a brotherhood, we all know what each other has been through,” said Marine veteran Michael Golden.
The veterans of Post 3350 are major contributors to the community. Whether it’s Memorial Day, the 9/11 observances or the near-and-dear-to-their-hearts Veteran’s Day ceremonies, among many other events, these vets who have already done so much for this nation are still giving of themselves to their neighbors.
