HON. DANIEL LIPINSKI
OF ILLINOIS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2006

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 60th anniversary of the Johnson-Phelps All American VFW Post #5220 in Oak Lawn, IL. Since its establishment, Post #5220 has enriched the lives of its members and faithfully served the community. Today, Post #5220, under the guidance of Commander Joseph Stachon, has over 600 members and is one of the most active VFW Posts in the Chicagoland area.

Area veterans, returning from the Second World War, formed the Johnson-Phelps VFW Post between 1944 and 1945 and received a formal charter in 1946. Initially, members gathered at the Oak Lawn Public Library and later held functions at Brandt's Dug-Out. In 1951, the Post moved into its current location at 52nd and Yourell Drive.

Throughout its history, Post #5220 has successfully brought veterans of all ages and backgrounds together. Members of the Post and its Ladies Auxiliary have a strong reputation for participating in community service events, performing volunteer work at hospitals, and spearheading donation drives and fundraisers for charity. Through the work of its members, the Post continues to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals and has a tremendous impact on the surrounding community.

It is my great honor to recognize the 60th anniversary of the Johnson-Phelps All American VFW Post #5220 and commend the outstanding work of its members. As we celebrate the members' accomplishments today, we also thank them for their dedicated service in defending everything that our great Nation represents. Our society is forever indebted to our Nation's veterans for their unyielding bravery, courage, and perseverance.