Since receiving its charter in 1931, Menomonie’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1039 has remained steadfast in its mission to serve veterans, their families and the broader community. Nearly a century later, the Post continues to live by the VFW motto: “No One Does More for Veterans.”
Today, Post 1039 is led by Commander Bill Foslid and Adjutant/Quartermaster Marlin Severson. The organization meets on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Moose Lodge in Menomonie. Annual dues are $35.
Severson, who helps coordinate the Post’s activities and community outreach, said the group’s strength lies in its commitment to service. His wife, Judy Severson, is also involved, assisting with the community’s annual Memorial Day ceremonies and other activities.
Honoring Those Who Served
One of the Post’s most visible roles is with the Menomonie Veterans Honor Guard. The Honor Guard provides military funeral honors for local veterans, ensuring each service member receives a dignified farewell. They work together with other local veterans organizations: Menomonie’s American Legion Hosford-Chase Post 32, DAV, AMVETS and Vietnam Veterans of America.
The group also presents the colors at flag raisings, dedications and civic events, and plays a central role in Veterans Day, Flag Day and Memorial Day programs throughout the county.
“These ceremonies are some of the most important things we do,” Severson said. “It’s making sure veterans are not forgotten.”
Part of a Regional Network
Post 1039 is part of the VFW Ninth District, which includes 11 counties in western Wisconsin. Dunn County is also home to another VFW Post 10424 in Wheeler, led by Commander Roger Hanson. The Wheeler post recently established a new veterans memorial, further strengthening recognition efforts in the county.
Broad Community Support
Beyond ceremonies and veteran advocacy, Post 1039 provides financial donations and volunteer support to a wide range of organizations.
Veteran-focused initiatives include outdoor recreation programs (Camp Valor, Outdoor Adventures, Chippewa Falls Veterans Home) PTSD therapy services (Trinity Equestrian), service dog organizations (Dog 2 Dog Tags, Retrievers for Warriors), housing assistance efforts, memorial projects (The Highground), disaster relief funds (VFW Disaster Relief) and Freedom Honor Flights. The Post supports programs that help recover the remains of missing service members (Bring Them Home) and provides assistance to veterans facing financial hardship (gift cards to VSO offices).
Housing and family assistance are also priorities. The Post contributes to organizations that provide free lodging for families of hospitalized veterans (Fisher House Wisconsin, Ronald McDonald House), housing for homeless children and families, local food shelves (Stepping Stones, Food Harvest Ministry), homeless shelters and holiday meal programs for veterans in need, as well as household furnishings for veterans (Sofas for Service).
Marlin highlighted the annual Ninth District Golf Outing, which is co-sponsored with Menomonie Firefighters. He is proud to note that over $122,000 has been raised in the past 9 years to help needy veterans and their families in western WI.
Youth and education programs receive strong backing as well. Post #1039 sponsors local participation in high school Voice of Democracy and middle school Patriot’s Pen essay contests. They also honors graduating seniors entering military service at the annual High School to Heroes Dinner, and support scholarships through fundraising golf outings. Donations also go toward scouting programs, drug prevention education (Dunn Co Sheriff’s DARE drug program), Special Olympics Wisconsin, along with other community initiatives.
Recruiting New Members
As the Post looks to the future, leaders are encouraging eligible veterans to consider joining.
Membership is open to veterans who have served overseas in a location of foreign conflict and meet VFW eligibility requirements. New members help ensure the continuation of funeral honors, youth programs, scholarships and community support efforts.
Marlin suggested that veterans interested in learning more or joining VFW Post #1039 can contact him at 715-308-6119 or by email at [email protected]. Prospective members are also welcome to attend a monthly meeting at the Moose Lodge on the second Monday at 6 p.m. Call ahead to confirm.
In addition, donations from community members or businesses are welcome. Contact Marlin.
For more than 95 years, VFW Post 1039 has blended tradition with service — honoring fallen veterans while investing in the future of the community. With continued support and new members stepping forward, the Post stands ready to serve for generations to come.