Submitted by the Dillon VFW
(John Harlow & Joey Williams)
The Dillon Rotary Club welcomed Dillon VFW Post Commander Joey Williams and Past Post Commander John Harlow as guest speakers during its Wednesday luncheon at B&C Steak & BBQ. Rotary Program Chairman Mike Summerlin introduced the speakers and thanked both men for their continued service to local veterans.
Past Post Commander John Harlow provided an overview of VFW activities at the national, district, and post levels. He explained how the VFW works with Congress, state legislatures, and local governments to advocate for veterans and raise awareness of the needs of veterans and their families. Harlow noted that the Dillon VFW coordinates many of its efforts with the Dillon County Veterans Affairs Office.
He also shared that the Dillon VFW Post was nationally chartered on April 8, 1946, and distributed a handout listing every post commander from Joe B. Bethea (1946–1947) to Joey L. Williams (2025–2026). “The VFW currently has 1.3 million members working every day to help veterans and their families,” Harlow said.
Commander Joey Williams reported on the Dillon VFW’s accomplishments in 2025, including two luncheon programs that helped veterans learn how to file for benefits. The Dillon VFW also provided help to veterans needing emergency funds for temporary housing and utility bills. Williams also highlighted the Post’s adoption of the South Carolina National Guard’s 1053rd Transportation Unit, supporting the unit’s December family day event.
Williams announced that Dillon VFW members Timothy Hooks, George Johnson, Stephanie Maza, Danielle Smith, and he had completed the South Carolina Palmetto Pathfinder Program. This statewide initiative trains volunteer veterans—called Pathfinders—to guide fellow veterans through benefits, resources, and major life transitions, ensuring every South Carolina veteran has a knowledgeable point of contact.
In closing, Harlow and Williams updated the Rotary Club on ongoing improvements to the Dillon VFW building. More than $100,000 has been invested in renovations, funded through a state grant secured by Representative Jackie Hayes, along with donations and fundraising efforts. The Post is now working to raise an additional $12,000 to upgrade its main hall flooring.
The Dillon VFW is a nonprofit veterans’ organization. Donations may be mailed to: 2042 Hwy 9 East, Dillon, SC 29536.
