As I am sure many people are aware, the Roy D. Graves VFW Post 1194 in Potsdam has closed its doors for good.

This was not an easy decision to make. Times have certainly changed here in the North Country and many organizations are feeling the brunt of it. There has certainly been a lot of history for the Veterans Post over the course of the past 80-plus years.

Attrition has taken its toll over the past year. Over the years we have sponsored the annual Memorial Day Weekend parade and events as well as the annual Veterans Day ceremony and lunch for all of our veterans and community members. We especially will miss participating in the annual Wounded Warrior Outdoor Adventure program for our veterans.

In closing I would like to thank a few individuals who have helped support out post with their tireless efforts: Veteran Scott Nelson, Veteran Aric Koboski, Veteran Josh Wilson, Veteran Mike Keegan, Veteran John Posko, and finally a huge “Thank you” to Dennis Smythe for his tireless and unwavering dedication to our post and our veterans. Without the support of these men I would not have been able to keep the doors open for as long as we possibly could.

I would also like to tank all of our associate members who helped to keep the post open this long.

We will certainly miss seeing you all at the post.

Bob Crary, Commander

VFW Post 1194