faces&places

A8 PALO VERDE VALLeY TIMES, Wednesday, July 5, 2017

America: the great and the beautiful

As Blythe joined the nation in celebrating the Fourth of July, we are reminded of the freedoms each individual is able to enjoy in America. Thanks to
the men and women who serve in the United States military, Americans are afforded the opportunity to live comfortably, liberally and at peace from its
enemies. Never forgetting the service stouthearted members of the military continues to give each day as they protect this nation, The Palo Verde Valley
Times visited the local Veterans of Foreign War Post 2987 to commemorate the brave heroes who sacrificed their lives for this country. As one of the largest
and oldest war veterans organization, the VFW is an establishment that brings together every branch of the military to symbolize their commitment to this
respected nation. A special salute to all who fought for Americas freedom.

ABOVE: The Blythe VFW Post 2987 is a veterans organization, established at 148 N. 1st St., as a place for members of the United
States armed-forces to come together and form a camaraderie. Across America, these posts bring foreign war veterans together
to advocate on behalf of all veterans. TOP RIGHT: Through the doors of the Blythe VFW, military service members from the active,
guard and reserved forces, as well as community members, enjoy community events, as each member seek to honor their military
service to the country they love, promote patriotism and serve their community. RIGHT: The Poulter family of five men, faithfully
served in different branches of the military, to secure the safety of Americans. Blythe is honored to have these men honored on the
VFW Post 2987s wall of fame.

Taking the oath, One nation under God, military men and women from the United States Navy, Air Force, Army, Marines and Coast Guard all proudly serve to secure the freedom of the American
people.

ABOVE: The VFW Hall is used quite often throughout the year
to host parties, banquets and other community affairs, as
the veterans of Blythe continue to give back to their friends
and family from the community. BELOW: The Veteran Wall of
Freedom at the local, Blythe VFW Post, honoring those who
fought for Americas freedom.

As the Soldier's Creed of the United States' Army goes, "I am The flag at Post VFW 2987 whipped high in the wind on July
an American soldier. I am a warrior and a member of a team. I 4, as the silhoutted figure on the POW MIA flag appeared,
serve the people of the United States, and live the Army values. symbolizing those who were taken as a prisoner of war (POW),
I will always place the mission first. I will never accept defeat. I those missing and those still unaccounted for; as the flag reads,
will never quit. I will never leave a fallen comrade." You are not forgotten.

PHOTOS BY CATHYLEEN RICE/PALO VERDE VALLEY TIMES