VFW Ladies Auxiliary of Pa. attends convention

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Staff report

LOUISVILLE, KY.

Julia Dever of Sharpsville, Pa., president of the Department of Pennsylvania Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a member of the Sharpsville Ladies Auxiliary 6404, led the U.S. auxiliary at the 100th national convention July 20 through 24 in Louisville, Ky.

Dever voiced delegates’ votes during the election of national officers and had an important role in the direction of the national or- ganization for 2012-2013.

Outstanding department presidents were announced at the national president’s dinner, which was a highlight of the convention.

Among other highlights was the chance for members to view the eight winning Young American Creative Patriotic Art entries and the Buddy Poppy displays, along with joint events with the VFW, such as the opening session and the patriotic rally.

The national president, Leanne Lemley, commended the 2,000 in attendance for their work in honoring veterans and supporting deployed military members and their families.

She thanked members for volunteering in hospitals, for raising $2.4 million for the Cancer Aid and Research Fund and for donating $315,000 to VFW National Military Services.

The election and installation of National President Armithea Borel, a life member of Starks Memorial Auxiliary 4759, and the other 2013-2014 national officers took place July 24. It marked the beginning of the organization’s 100th year of service.