03/29/2026
Honoring Our Past, Building Our Future!
Brotherhood and history took center stage as PDC Bobby Welch, in coordination with Private Henry M Hardenbergh Camp No. 39, hosted a successful "New Member Orientation" and introduction to the Memorial University Seminar.
It was a fantastic day of fraternal camaraderie with Brothers from Camps 2, 39, and 6165 in attendance! This training will hopefully become an annual tradition, ensuring our new Brothers gain a deep understanding of SUVCW history, our charter’s purposes, and the legacy we have sworn to protect.
During our break, we toured the incredible Chicagoland Veterans Campus. They are currently breathing new life into a 100-year-old Lutheran Elementary School, transforming it into a "Veterans Campus" featuring:
• 6 Unique Military/Veteran Museums
• A Comprehensive Library
• A Veterans Resource Center
One of these highlights is the Museum of American Fraternal Military Societies, led by our own Brother Welch! The museum already houses an impressive collection of SUVCW memorabilia.
To top off the day, Department Commander Michael Zafran presented Brother Welch with a historic GAR Charter. This incredible piece of Union Veteran history will be officially displayed in the museum for all to see.
A huge thank you to everyone who traveled to participate. We look forward to seeing even more of you at this location next year!
