3 Things You Need to Know About

Chester McKay | VFW Post 7987

By VFW Chester McKay-Post Service Officer

Located in New Port Richey, Florida, VFW Chester McKay members are easily recognizable in the community by their shirts with the Maltese Cross insignia, the signature emblem of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Post 7987 has been serving local Veterans and the community for over 77 years and is usually referred to by its members as “Chester McKay”.

1.The History of VFW Post 7987

The post is named after New Port Richey resident and Gulf High School alumni,

Chester Rufus “Chet” McKay who enlisted in the US Navy and served during

World War II. Chester was killed when the ship he was serving on, the Pollux sank in the Atlantic , due to gale, off the coast of Newfoundland.

VFW Post 7987 was dedicated to him and first mustered on August 15, 1946.

Find out more about Chester Rufus “Chet” McKay- HERE

2.The VFW’s Signature Program: The Post Service Officer

The Post Service Officer Program is the hallmark of every VFW Post and supports the VFW’s vision of;

Ensure that veterans are respected for their service, always receive their earned entitlements, and are recognized for the sacrifices they and their loved ones have made on behalf of this great country.

The Post Service Officer helps Veterans and their family members navigate the sometimes complex process of filing for VA benefits that they are entitled to and works with regional VFW Veteran Service Officers at the state level who can represent Veterans on their claims and appeals. VSO’s are able to directly interact with the VA on behalf of the Veteran or family member.

3.Community Service & Youth Scholarships

VFW Chester McKay is very active in the local community though various programs such as;

Patriot’s Pens, Voice of Democracy, Young American Patriotic Art Contest and Illustrating America are just a few of the Youth Scholarship programs Post 7987 supported during the year.

Also, check out : 3 Ways to Keep Military Camaraderie Alive as a Veteran