Community Organization Spotlight

By Kai Neuberger

It may come as a surprise to many when we say that Owasso has a Veterans of Foreign Wars. I was able to have an interview with Commander Arden Wilkinson of the VFW, and I discovered that he gained his position for the sake of the past leader, someone overworked and in dire need of a break. Such should provide ample evidence as to the state of their affairs.

Despite less than ideal circumstances, Commander Wilkinson has been doing a great job leading this volunteer based organization. When asked what all the VFW does for our veterans, he states emphatically that they “do whatever needs to be done.”

He goes on to elaborate that they work hand in hand with Veteran Affairs, always being on the lookout for disability compensation, assisting with rent and house upkeep, getting treatments, providing shelter, and creating connections for possible jobs. To raise money for all the help they provide, they put on several fundraisers a year, such as their “Quarterly Fish Fry” and the always stellar monthly Breakfasts. 

Photo of Arden Wilkinson

Available on the 4th Saturday of every month from 7-10am (except for November and December), you’ll be welcomed by the sight of pancakes, waffles, biscuits and gravy, sausage, and a variety of beverages. 

When asked what Commander Wilkinson would want the Owasso community to offer in support, he asks that we simply do our best to bring awareness to their presence in the city. Many vets do not reach out themselves and are often cheated of help they could have received earlier, had they known of the organization’s existence.

Let’s assist our Veterans in getting a membership that may benefit them. Another way to get involved is to volunteer at many of the events occurring with our VFW. If you’re interested in contacting them, seeing what they’re doing,  or volunteering you can go to their Facebook Page @owassovfw.owasso or contact Commander Wilkinson himself at (918)-698-6656