Commander Dave King
Prayers for Service Members - Operation Epic Fury
As our nation launches Operation Epic Fury, we are reminded once more that freedom is never free.
A new generation has answered the call. They are stepping into uncertainty — just as we once did. We remember that moment: the quiet resolve, the weight of the mission, the last call home. We have stood where they stand today.
Please keep these service members — and their families — in your thoughts and prayers. Pray for their strength and for their safe return. Remember the families who now carry the burden at home.
Another generation of combat veterans is being forged. They carry the same oath, the same commitment, and the same love of country that each of us carried when it was our turn.
May our nation remain united in support of those serving — honoring them in the way only those who have worn the uniform can understand.
May God watch over them all.
June 2025
Fellow members of Post 3380:
It is a distinct honor to be elected as your new Post Commander. As a veteran of Operation Just Cause in Panama, and Iraq, I've proudly been a VFW member for over 20 years. This Post is the first where I’ve had the opportunity to actively contribute.
Post 3380 may be small, but we carry a proud and enduring history. Established in May 1945, we recently celebrated our 80th anniversary—recognized with a proclamation from the Town of Dandridge. Our continued visibility and involvement in the community are essential to honoring that legacy.
Over the past few weeks, we’ve demonstrated that commitment through Memorial Day activities, including our support for the National Bass Fishing Tournament on Douglas Lake, where Bryan Gross gave the invocation. With over 115 boats participating, it was a significant event that reflected well on our participation.
We also continued the tradition of placing American flags throughout downtown Dandridge and in local cemeteries. A special thanks goes to Joe and Leslie Purser for organizing an outstanding Memorial Day ceremony—well-planned, well-attended, and deeply appreciated.
I also want to congratulate the Post
for receiving All-State recognition. These accomplishments do not just
happen- it's because of your dedication and commitment. It's also through the hard
work of someone who often operates behind the scenes, doing the inputs and
making sure our submissions are accurate to District. Thank you to our
QM, Chuck Stachowski for all of his efforts managing these systems and making
it seamless.
Comrades —
De Oppresso Liber -
Dave
My Vision:
I want our Post to be one we can be proud—one that reflects the values and mission of the VFW. We should be recognized as active, contributing members of the community, proudly representing the Post in our VFW shirts and hats so people know who we are and what we stand for.
When the public supports initiatives like Buddy Poppy, they should see firsthand their contributions at work—supporting veterans, promoting patriotism, mentoring the youth, assisting the elderly – and upholding the purpose for which our organization was founded.
Together, we can strengthen our presence and serve as mentors within our community. As veterans who each deployed and risked our lives to defend this country, we have an opportunity as members of the Post to show that same commitment to service here at home.
-Dave