While serving in Iraq during the 2006 holiday season, Spc. Ryan Lautner opened an unexpected gift from his hometown VFW Post.

Spc. Lautner, 23, Macomb, Mich., was awarded a free lifetime membership from VFW Post 4659, Shelby Township, Mich.

“It was a wonderful surprise to be given a membership in an organization that has given me so much and has played such a big role in my life,” said Lautner. “First the Post adopted my unit and now this. Their support is simply overwhelming.”

Ryan fondly remembers his childhood experiences at the VFW.

“When I was a kid, I thought the VFW was just a party place. Every wedding I had been to was at the VFW,” Lautner recalled. “It wasn’t until I got older that I learned what they are really about.”

It was his grandfather, a VFW member, and his grandmother, a Ladies Auxiliary VFW member, who greatly contributed to Ryan’s understanding of the VFW.

“In 2005, I carried the colors in a parade to honor vets in town,” said Lautner. “That’s what the VFW really is -- a place to show pride in our country and thank those who defended it.”

Bill Dobbie, VFW Post 4659 commander, organized the surprise gift.

“His grandfather was a good friend of mine,” said Dobbie. “I see a lot of him in Ryan, and I’m sure he’ll be a great addition to our Post.”

Lautner looks forward to returning from his deployment and taking full advantage of his new lifetime membership.

“I want to get involved in any way I can,” said Lautner. “I hope to be on the Post board and maybe even treasurer.”

Dobbie sees a bright future for the Post, currently 464 members strong, with Ryan as an active participant.

“It would be great for him to take the lead in carrying on the traditions of the VFW,” insisted Dobbie. “It’s the young members, like Ryan, who are the future of the organization.”