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The members of the VFW Men’s Auxiliary of Diamond State Post 2863 in Wilmington, Delaware, were struck by inspiration during the Red, White and Blue Gala held in Delaware a few years ago. In truth, anyone in the ballroom that night couldn’t help but be moved.
“A service member called in during the event to share what the program meant to him,” shares Ted Gula, President of the Diamond State Men’s Auxiliary. “You could just feel how touched he was by VFW’s efforts.
“We turned to look at one another and knew we were all thinking the same thing; we had to help support this program. We said, ‘Let’s go for it!’”
The Men’s Auxiliary decided to host brunches during football season. Everyone enjoyed a great meal on Sunday afternoons, watched the Eagles play and made a difference in the lives of lonely military personnel missing their families. Initial fundraisers were followed by summer barbecues, dances and other special events to support VFW Operation Uplink™.
With so much success, the next logical step was to involve Elvis Presley.
Although The King has left the building, his image lives on in the hearts of his fans. A member of Post 2863 donated an Elvis decanter and music box for a raffle. As expected, Elvis was a hit.
“The raffle alone raised nearly $400,” says Gula.
“In the end, we raised over $5,000,” Gula continues.
“We were recognized with the Platinum Plus award for our efforts, but we’re just happy to help out.
“We've been supporting VFW Operation Uplink since our Auxiliary was chartered in 2003, reaching a new level each year, and we'll continue to do so as long as the need exists.” | 
