Bush named new state VFW commander

Gary E. Bush, Sr., serving his 14th year as commander of Ogallala Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3755, recently began his duties as the Nebraska state commander for 2018-19.

Bush served in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1968, and completed three tours in Vietnam.

The VFW was originally organized Sept. 29, 1899, and is preparing to celebrate its 119th anniversary.

Perkins County VFW merged with Keith County VFW in November 2011, becoming Ogallala Post 3755.

Bush was pinned as the new state commander during the 97th annual VFW state convention, held at Omaha June 8 through 10.

Joe Peters, service officer of VFW Post 3755, received the State Service Officer of the Year distinction.

Ashleigh Larson was named State EMT of the Year. She is an EMT with Ogallala Fire and Rescue.

The Post also received the following honors: Americanism scrapbook, second place and $50; Youth scrapbook, second place and $50; and Loyalty Day scrapbook, first place and $75.

A citation of recognition went to Post 3755 for outstanding teacher award program activities.

Bush received recognition as outstanding scouting chairman.

The following Post 3755 members received recognition for their participation in the program Veterans in the Classroom: Darwin Rokowsky, Darrel Munson, Ron Froshheiser, Stacey Bauer, Bob Curry, John Koperski, Chuck Roberts, Bush, and Elliott Sagehorn.