Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10374, located in the northwest part of Tarrant County, is undergoing a transformation aimed at attracting a new generation of veterans and making the hall a true community hub. Board member and Marine Corps veteran Scott Miller recalls his first visit to a VFW post in Killeen, Texas, describing the atmosphere as a “dim, smoke‑filled hall” that felt like a dying institution. Determined to change that perception, the post is now open to the public and offers a range of activities designed to bring people together.
Community‑focused amenities
The renovated space hosts regular steak and burger nights, and it provides free pool on weeknights for anyone who walks through the doors. Local groups such as the Marine Corps League and Patriot Guard Riders already use the hall for meetings, reinforcing its role as a gathering place for service‑oriented organizations.
Youth outreach and mentorship
Senior Vice Commander and Marine Corps veteran Kenneth Mendez says the post’s mission centers on youth outreach. Since 2023, a handful of newer veterans joined the post and began working with local schools. The nonprofit sponsors a high‑school rodeo club, runs VFW‑related educational contests, and offers mentorship programs that encourage students to volunteer at post events. “We are trying to eliminate that whole mindset of ‘It’s just a bunch of old people talking and complaining,’” Mendez explained.
Bridging generations
Board members emphasize the importance of linking the wisdom of older veterans with the energy of younger service members. “You need the wise older people, but you need the younger people involved to learn. And they can introduce the older people to the new ways,” said Christopher Marquardt, a Navy veteran who serves as the post chaplain. The leadership is actively recruiting younger veterans to ensure the post remains vibrant as other VFW locations across the country face declining rosters.
Direct support for veterans in need
Beyond social events, Post 10374 continues its core mission of assisting veterans who walk through its doors. The organization helps with practical needs such as building wheelchair ramps, renovating bathrooms, providing emergency lodging, and covering temporary expenses. “We meet strangers every day, but are they really strangers? They’re not strangers. They served,” Marquardt said, underscoring the post’s commitment to treating fellow veterans as family.
Future plans
The board is seeking additional community investment to expand the facility and upgrade its infrastructure. Upgrades could include modernizing the kitchen, improving accessibility, and adding more space for educational programs. By strengthening ties with local businesses, schools and faith groups, the post hopes to become an even more integral part of northwest Tarrant County life.
As the VFW post opens its doors wider than ever before, it offers a model for how veteran organizations can remain relevant, support their members and serve the broader community in the 21st century.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
