The Wareham Veterans Council's fight to promote patriotism could start with you

After seven years of silence, the Wareham Veterans Council is looking to hold its first meeting… it just needs a quorum first. 

The Wareham Veterans Council is a board that supports veterans with recognition and organizes events around town like Memorial Day and Veterans Day gatherings. 

For those seven years, the Wareham Veterans Council did not have enough members to operate, needing a minimum of four. The Wareham Veterans Council had hit its member goal with the appointment of Navy veteran Richard Holmes in early January. With four seats filled, the council began the process of starting up operations again.

However, it takes more than just the minimum number of members to successfully operate.

The council is seeking more members, more attendants and volunteers for the future of the board. Only operating with four members doesn't give the council the opportunity to hold meetings often, as they would need to cancel or reschedule if one member cannot attend.

Chair David McClure emphasized the importance of getting more members on the council, which would bring more veteran-focused events to town and the opportunity to spread patriotism. 

"We want to promote patriotism and make the public cognizant to what's going on in the world," McClure said.

From celebrating the United States 250th birthday, partnering with the JROTC and honoring those lost in the 25th year since 9/11, the council has big ideas but lacks community involvement. 

"Anyone that's interested, give us a call," said member Ronald Dunham.

Members must be over 18-years-old and a Wareham resident. Since the current four members have all served for the country, those interested do not have to be veterans. For questions and inquiries about joining, email the council at veteranscouncil@wareham.gov. 

The council plans to meet every fourth Wednesday of the month at 5 p.m. in room 27 of Town Hall, 54 Marion Road.