Picnic

-- Brainerd VFW Summer Picnic --
It's an annual tradition

The picnic is normally held on the last weekend in August in St. Mathias Park, 4548 Co. Rd. 121, Fort Ripley, MN. Check back for an announcement of the next date. Google Map link to St. Matthias Park in Ft. Ripley

August 27, 2023: The annual Brainerd VFW member picnic was held at St. Mathias Park. It was a nice 74-degree day and there was a good turnout. There were prizes and drawings for kids and adults along with a bean bag tournament.

Chaplain's Assistant Mark Persons gave this prayer before the meal, "Oh Lord, thank You for bringing this “Band of Brothers and Sisters” together to celebrate our freedom and the veterans who made it possible for us to be here today. Let us be a grateful people and one nation under God. We pray also for the servicemen and women worldwide fighting for freedom from terror. Bless them all….Amen"

Our thanks to Walmart for the food and their crew of four to cook and serve it.

Then there was a bean bag tournament run the Brainerd VFW sponsored men's over 35 softball team. Winners were Tom Kowalke and Jerry Larson.

Then there was VFW member Jeff McArthur in a typical pose, leaning on a broom when the floors needed cleaning. He must have learned that during his 23 years in the Army!

A fun time was had by all.

Sunday, August 28, 2022: The annual Post and Auxiliary Picnic was a great success at St. Mathias Park. Walmart provided hamburgers and bratwurst, along with five employees. Saundra Swearingen had games for the kids. Sue Sterling used calligraphy to make name signs for kids. Walmart gift certificates were given as door prizes. Brainerd VFW Senior Vice Commander Kevin Jensen and Junior Vice Commander Scott Hall were introduced as new members of Post leadership. A rousing game of Bean Bag was played. Richard Maske and Zach Day were the winners. Lots of fun for everyone.

August 8, 2021: The Brainerd VFW held its summer picnic for all paid members and families of the Brainerd VFW and Auxiliary. The fun started at noon. Walmart donated most of the food and their employees did the cooking. Lunch was 1 to 4 pm at St. Mathias Park. The weather was great. There were raffle drawings for prizes.