As 2024 draws to a close, the members of VFW Post 6091 reflect on a year filled with appreciation for Dillon County’s support for veterans. This year’s experiences have underscored how fortunate we Veterans are to be part of a community that consistently rallies around those who have served in the armed forces. This solidarity is evident in the meaningful actions taken through various events and programs designed to uplift veterans. Thanks to your generosity, VFW Post 6091 was able to assist local veterans with utility payments, rent, food, and emergency shelter. We also connected veterans in mental health crises with appropriate agencies for necessary treatment and support. With the dedication of Dillon County, we proudly sponsored and participated in numerous events this year, reinforcing the strong bond between our county and those who have served.
Throughout the year, our Post hosted two veteran luncheons—one at Union Baptist Church in Latta and another at Fresh Beginnings Christian Center in Dillon. Additionally, we collaborated with the town of Lake View to co-host a breakfast that brought veterans together with their families and supporters from across the county. These gatherings were not just social events; they were informative platforms where subject matter experts from various organizations shared critical information tailored specifically for veterans and their families. Our partnerships included representatives from the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), the South Carolina Department of Veteran Affairs, and members from South Carolina Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Each expert presented valuable insights on benefits and resources such as VA healthcare eligibility and enrollment, medical claims processing, caregiver support options, educational benefits available for veterans and their dependents, and an overview of innovative initiatives like the Palmetto Pathfinder program. This wealth of information was instrumental for over 100 attending veterans who walked away with knowledge of their benefits and available resources. The meals provided during these events also contributed significantly to fostering camaraderie among attendees. Local businesses ensured that everyone enjoyed delicious food while engaging in meaningful conversations about shared experiences as service members or family members supporting those who served.
VFW Post 6091 extended its outreach by participating actively in local festivities throughout Dillon County. Our dedicated members conducted twenty 50/50 raffles during popular events, including Latta’s Springfest, Celebrate Main Street festivities downtown Dillon, Lake View Speedway races, the local Farmers Markets, and the Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee. The funds raised directly supported ongoing efforts to assist veterans, surviving spouses, and families facing adversity during difficult times.
This year, Post 6091 hosted its inaugural golf tournament. Thirty-three golfers participated and directly contributed to our shared mission of helping veterans. The competition was complemented by donated door prizes, which added to the competitive atmosphere. Barfield’s Roofing team secured the first-place title, while the Private-Public Partnership team garnered second place. Funds raised will not only support veterans but will also provide needed funds for the Post’s renovation.
Dillon County Post 6091 was built in the early 1950s and has yet to undergo any significant upgrades…until now. Golf tournament revenue, grants procured with Senator Kent Williams and Representative Jackie Hayes’ assistance, donations from local businesses, and concerned citizens have allowed much-needed renovation that began in November. This renovation project will provide a suitable place to assist veterans with applying for health (physical and mental) and educational benefits and serve as a proper place to connect them with required daily resources. Our organization will be able to provide meals and host social events for veterans and the county. Additionally, this will enable us to restore the Post to a safe, professional appearance and a place of honor it truly deserves.
As we look back on 2024, our efforts have been met with an overwhelming response from a caring community. The engagement of local businesses, organizations, and residents shows that support for veterans goes beyond words; it is action-oriented. Whether through providing meals, sharing information about essential services, or participating in fundraising events, Dillon County’s commitment to honoring those who have served is a testament to its character. We are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received and the partnerships we’ve built. Together, we can continue fostering an environment where veterans feel valued and supported—a place where they can seek assistance without shame while thriving among friends and allies who care deeply about their well-being. Here’s to building upon this strong foundation in 2025!
