PACIFIC BEACH – For Pacific Beach VFW Post Commander Mike Hill, Veterans Day is something truly special.
“Unlike Memorial Day, when we remember the vets who didn’t make it home, Veterans Day is just our day to appreciate each other and the ones who made it home,” said Hill, a self-avowed military brat who commands VFW Post 5985 and American Legion Post 552 at 853 Turquoise Street in Pacific Beach.
“We’re all working together to help each other out here, along with the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary, as well as the Pacific Beach Woman’s Club, which focuses on helping veterans and homeless veterans.
“All of us are oriented toward helping the military, whether you’re a veteran, active duty, or just a family member.”
Hill noted that all the various groups co-existing at VFW Post 5985 are community-driven, supporting patriotic and youth-oriented causes. One of those is the Voice of Democracy, a program providing high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in patriotic-themed recorded essays.
Each year, more than 26,400 students nationwide enter to win their share of more than $1.4 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
“We had one student in Voice of Democracy who placed fourth in the whole state,” said Hill, adding that the program has a different theme every year.
Post 5985 is a haven for vets to share their experiences, thoughts, and feelings. “It’s a safe place where you can talk about a lot of things other people might not understand or have an appreciation for,” said Hill.
Observing Veterans Day on Nov. 11 at Post 5985 will be serious but casual.
“We’ll be opening the post around noon and barbecuing hamburgers and hot dogs,” Hill said. “For those wishing to imbibe, who are of age, the first drink is on the house.”
Hill noted the true meaning of being a veteran involves “risking your life for something much greater than yourself” in choosing to serve your country.
“That’s something that continues throughout your life after your service, whether it be in groups like Boy Scouts, church, or any variety of things,” he said. “You never quit serving.”
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