ROWLEY – Alan and Maureen Aulson dropped into the Rowley Veterans Association recently and asked a few members what’s it all about, explaining that they had driven by many times, but simply had not stopped. The pair related that they had a wonderful time, meeting so many nice people … so much so that they joined! The pair used the time to take photos and interview various folks at their NFL luncheon event.
One attendee, Fred Schoenberger of Rowley explained that he has been a member for some time, perhaps 10-15 or so years, and said that he “comes down and enjoys the company and all the stuff going on. There are veterans and non-veterans … people come in and I would say the majority of people are not veterans but come in to enjoy the game and all the activities, and to support veterans.”
Neil Butler also of Rowley, explained he came in as a non-member when he was 21, and now his son and his daughter are members. “It’s open to anyone, and they even have a few members from out of town. ”
Fred and Neil explained that the group reaches out to the community for various activities, supporting veterans, the Rowley Food Pantry, and generally just helping people out where they can.
“It’s a very friendly and somewhat busy group,” Butler shared. “It’s small, though and we’re trying to encourage folks to come down, join, be a part of the community. ”
Association President Bill Gaynor gave a little history of the club, explained about their open membership, and shared that their mission was to contribute to a number of funds, supporting veterans groups, disabled veterans, the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and other activities to provide services to the town. He said they were in the process of trying to rebuild their scholarship fund, which previously offered scholarships to students attending high school at Triton, Newburyport, and Ipswich.
Bill invited everyone down to join in at all the football games. Check out the signs on the door for opening times. “All are welcome.” ♦
