Veterans on Mercer Island are surrounded by supportive friends in city government, the business community, and our local organizations. They keep us apprised of important civic, community, and historic issues and often times request veterans participate in open forum discussions, planning meetings, or public events. Collectively, such friends make Mercer Island a welcoming and supportive environment for veterans, encouraging each of us to remain actively engaged in our city’s ongoing development.

The Mercer Island City Council has long been a friend to veterans. Some councilmen are veterans themselves, serving with distinction during military service on active or reserve duty. During autumn 2009, the council met and discussed the possibility of entering into an inter-local agreement with King County on matters related to historic landmark designation and preservation. Veterans were asked to attend council discussion of the pros and cons associated with such an effort. As long time caretakers of the Keewaydin Clubhouse – listed on the National Register of Historic Places – such action could directly impact valued VFW property. Keeping us informed reinforces trust in local governance and maintains our awareness of issues that impact the upkeep and preservation of Mercer Island’s only National historic landmark. For more on the City Council visit www.mercergov.org.

Increasing support has been evident from the Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber recently began recommending VFW Post 5760 and our Keewaydin Clubhouse as an available venue for local business groups to meet, conducting training, or socialize. The Chamber is also welcoming Post Commander Bob Brahm to the upcoming May meeting of the Officers and Board of Directors to speak about veterans’ programs, events, and ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the historic Keewaydin Clubhouse. For more on the Chamber of Commerce visit www.mercerislandchamber.com.

Since 1954 the Mercer Island Historical Society has showcased local people, places, and events that have substantively shaped the community in which we live. Fitting that the historical society invited local veterans to attend a recent memorial marker dedicated to the U. S. Army’s Battery C, 260th Coastal Artillery Battalion stationed on Mercer Island during World War II. With recent VFW Post 5760 efforts in historic preservation, the timing may be right to plan for placement of a historic photographs placard in front of the Keewaydin Clubhouse. For more on the Mercer Island Historical Society visit www.mihistory.org.

"It is well that war is so terrible, else we should grow too fond of it." - Robert E. Lee