Have a question about VFW Post 969 that isn't answered here?
Email adj@vfw969.org — we're happy to help.
Q: Where is VFW Post 969 located?
A: We're at 3510 McKinley Ave, Tacoma, WA 98404. Free parking on site.
Q: What is VFW Post 969's full name?
A: Eric G. Sandstrom Post 969, chartered August 24, 1939. Our namesake, Sergeant Eric G. Sandstrom, was awarded the Silver Star Medal for valor in combat during World War II.
Q: How long has Post 969 served Tacoma?
A: Since 1939 — more than 85 years of continuous service to the veterans and families of Tacoma and Pierce County.
Q: What are your hours?
A: Tuesday-Thursday 4:00pm - 8:00pm / Friday-Saturday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Q: Do I have to be a member to visit the Post?
A: Public events — like our July 4th Block Party, memorial ceremonies, fundraisers, and community dinners — are open to everyone. You're welcome to come by.
Post Canteen (bar) — Under VFW national and state rules, our canteen is a member facility. Non-member guests are welcome when signed in by a Post member, who takes responsibility for their guest during the visit. If you're thinking about joining and want to visit, just give us a call at 253-272-1405 and we'll set you up with a member host.
Prospective members — always welcome. Call ahead and we'll make sure someone greets you.
Hall rental — the hall is available to the public for weddings, memorials, and private events.
Q: Who can join the VFW?
A: To be eligible for VFW membership, you must:
Have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions)discharge — or currently be serving; AND
Have served in a foreign war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or in hostile waters. This can be proven by:
An authorized campaign medal
Receipt of Hostile Fire Pay or Imminent Danger Pay
Service in Korea for 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days
Q: What documents do I need to join?
A: A DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is the most common proof. If you don't have yours, request one from the National Archives or call 314-801-0800.
Q: Can I transfer my VFW membership from another Post?
A: Yes. Contact our Post Adjutant at 253-272-1405 and we'll walk you through the transfer.
Q: What are the benefits of joining VFW Post 969?
A: Members receive:
Free VA claims assistance from accredited service officers
Access to 200+ retailer discounts through VFW PerkSpot
Camaraderie with fellow veterans who understand
VFW-sponsored insurance, prescription discount card, and travel benefits
A voice in veterans' advocacy at the state and national level
45% off Military Times subscriptions
$1,000 no-cost personal accident protection
See our Veteran Discounts page for the full list.
Q: Who can join the Auxiliary?
A: Anyone age 16 or older who is related to a VFW-eligible veteran (living or deceased):
Husband / Wife
Widow / Widower (even if remarried)
Father / Mother
Son / Daughter
Brother / Sister
Grandfather / Grandmother
Grandson / Granddaughter
Step, adopted, and half-relatives count the same as biological. Your veteran doesn't have to be a VFW member — just eligible.
Q: Is the Auxiliary only for women?
A: No. The Auxiliary opened to men in 2015. Husbands, fathers, sons, brothers, grandfathers, and grandsons of eligible veterans are all welcome.
Q: My dad served in Vietnam. Can I join?
A: Yes — if he received a campaign medal, Hostile Fire Pay, or Imminent Danger Pay for that service. Most Vietnam veterans qualify.
Q: How do I prove my veteran's eligibility?
A: A DD-214 showing overseas service and campaign medals is the standard. See our Resources page for how to request records.
Learn more on our Auxiliary page or visit vfwauxiliary.org.
Q: Can I rent the Post hall for a private event?
A: Yes — our hall is available for weddings, memorials, birthdays, anniversaries, meetings, and other private events.
Q: Who do I contact to book the hall?
A: Call 253-272-1405 or email adj@vfw969.org.
Q: Can Post 969 help me file a VA claim?
A: Yes — and it's completely free. VFW Accredited Claims Consultants dramatically improve your chances of approval versus filing alone. See our Resources page for the closest Service Officers, including the VFW Fife Headquarters at 253-344-5985.
Q: Do I have to be a VFW member to get claims help?
A: No. VFW Service Officers assist any veteran, family member, or survivor — regardless of membership.
Q: What if I'm in a mental health crisis?
A: Call the Veterans Crisis Line: dial 988, then press 1. Available 24/7, free, confidential, and you do not need to be enrolled in VA benefits to call. You can also text 838255 or chat online at veteranscrisisline.net.
Q: How can I attend a meeting as a prospective member?
A: Call 253-272-1405 ahead of time and let us know you're coming — we'll make sure someone greets you and answers your questions.
Q: What community events does Post 969 host?
A: Our major annual events include:
July 4th America 250 Community Block Party at VFW Post 969 Rec Park in Orting
Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies
Wreaths Across America every December at Tahoma National Cemetery and the Washington Soldiers Home Cemetery
Regular fundraisers, karaoke nights, and community dinners at the Post hall
Follow our Facebook page for current event schedules.
Q: Can non-members attend Post events?
A: Many events are open to the public — especially memorial ceremonies, fundraisers, and our July 4th Block Party. Check the event listing or call the Post to confirm.
Q: Is my donation tax-deductible?
A: Yes. VFW Post 969 is a federally recognized nonprofit veterans service organization (EIN: 91-0487827), tax-exempt since January 1981. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
Q: How do I donate?
A: The easiest way is through Zeffy a zero-fee donation platform, so 100% of your gift goes directly to Post 969 programs. You can also mail a check to the Post address above.
Q: Where does my donation go?
A: Directly to Post 969 programs — veteran emergency assistance, youth scholarships, memorial ceremonies, community events, and family support. Every dollar stays local.
Q: Can I sponsor an event or program?
A: Absolutely. Sponsorship opportunities are available for our July 4th Block Party, Wreaths Across America, scholarship programs, and more. Contact adj@vfw969.org to discuss.
Q: Can I donate items instead of money?
A: Yes — we often accept flags, memorial items, hall supplies, and specific program donations. Call ahead to confirm we can use what you're offering.
Q: How can I volunteer?
A: Whether you're a veteran, family member, or community neighbor — we'd love your help. Call 253-272-1405 or email adj@vfw969.org and tell us what you enjoy doing. We have a place for you.
Q: How do I stay updated on Post news?
A: Follow us on Facebook, sign up for our newsletter, or check our News page regularly.
Q: Who runs VFW Post 969?
A: Our Post is led by elected officers. See our Officers page for the full current roster.
We're here to help. Reach out any time:
📍 VFW Post 969 — Eric G. Sandstrom Post
3510 McKinley Ave, Tacoma, WA 98404
Subscription dues are just like a magazine subscription. It gives you
365 days of membership in the VFW. With this being the first year that
they are coming into effect it will be a process that we are not use to.
The basic breakdown of what is going to happen is:
If you are an annual member and you pay your dues before Jan your
expiration will be Jan 2015. If you pay after that date whatever day
your dues are processed at National will be the new expiration date.
Example would be that you send in your dues to National on 1 Feb 2015
and National processed them on the 15 Feb. Your new expiration date
would be 15 Feb 2016.
Annual membership Dues $39 and due on the anniversary of the date you joined the VFW or the date of annual renewal.