VFW AUXILIARY Junior Girls conference marks 70th anniversary

Three members of the District Eight Auxiliary will attend the event.
DEFIANCE -- VFW Auxiliary Junior Girls will mark its 70th anniversary during a conference to be held Sunday in Defiance.
Junior Girls consists of girls 6 to 16 years of age who are related to members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The purpose of the organization is to instill in young women a firm belief in the principles of our Republic and a reverence for the flag of the United States. It works to develop character, cooperation, leadership, self-reliance and a willingness to assume responsibility. Members learn to assist the auxiliary and the VFW in their activities and are trained to assume membership in the auxiliary.
Originally named Daughters of the VFW Units, the group was founded in 1935 and the following year 78 units were formed. In 1942 the name was changed to Junior Girls and eligibility requirements were expanded. Membership peaked in 1974-1975 with 8,000 girls enrolled in 540 units. Currently Junior Girls has 2,208 members in 165 units.
The Auxiliary to the VFW donates funds to two Junior Girl scholarships, one for $10,000 and one for $5,000. The scholarships are presented annually, based on scholastic aptitude and conscientious interest in community, school and Junior Girl activities. Awards are also given to members of Junior Girls for volunteer service in Veterans Administration hospitals, other hospitals and nursing homes.
Attending
Three officers of District Eight Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars will attend the conference. Representing District Eight at the 70th anniversary event will be president Candy Brooks, of West Farmington VFW 7200 Auxiliary, and junior vice president Patti Gavin and chaplain Warrine Yerkey, both of Akron VFW 8975 Auxiliary. District Eight is composed of Mahoning, Portage, Summit and Trumbull counties.