VFW Post 8343 building exterior with American flag

About VFW Post 8343

Serving veterans, families, and the Wind Lake community with honor, service, and camaraderie.

Our Mission

VFW Post 8343 exists to honor the service and sacrifice of America's veterans, to advocate for their rights and benefits, and to strengthen the Wind Lake community through service, fellowship, and patriotic programs. We believe no veteran should stand alone — and no community should forget those who served.

Honor

We recognize and celebrate the service of every veteran who has worn the uniform.

Service

We give back to our community through fundraisers, ceremonies, and volunteer programs.

Camaraderie

We build lasting bonds among veterans, families, and neighbors who share our values.

Advocacy

We fight for veterans' benefits, healthcare, and recognition at every level of government.

Our History

Decades of service to veterans and the Wind Lake community.

VFW Post 8343 was chartered to serve veterans in the Wind Lake and Muskego area of Waukesha County, Wisconsin. For more than fifty years, our post has been a gathering place for veterans of foreign wars — from Korea and Vietnam to the Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan. What began as a small group of neighbors who had served their country has grown into a thriving post with over 100 active members, a dedicated Auxiliary, and a permanent home on Saturn Drive in Muskego.

1970s

Post 8343 chartered in Wind Lake, WI, welcoming Vietnam-era veterans home.

1980s

Post expands membership and launches annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Wind Lake memorial.

1990s

Gulf War veterans join the post; building improvements funded by community fish fries and raffles.

2000s

Post 8343 establishes the Memorial Honor Brick program to permanently recognize local veterans.

2010s

Iraq and Afghanistan veterans strengthen the post; Auxiliary programs expand youth outreach.

2020s

$300,000 building fund launched to modernize the post facility for the next generation of veterans.

Post Leadership

Our officers are elected by the membership and serve the post with dedication.

Post Commander

Commander

Leads the post, presides over meetings, and represents Post 8343 at district and state VFW events.

Senior Vice Commander

Senior Vice Commander

Supports the Commander and oversees membership recruitment and retention programs.

Junior Vice Commander

Junior Vice Commander

Manages post programs, community events, and coordinates with the Auxiliary.

Quartermaster

Quartermaster

Oversees post finances, dues collection, and financial reporting to the membership.

Adjutant

Adjutant

Maintains membership records, handles correspondence, and manages post administration.

Service Officer

Service Officer

Assists veterans with VA claims, disability ratings, and benefits navigation at no cost.

Community Impact

Every year, Post 8343 gives back to the veterans and neighbors who make Wind Lake home.

50+

Years of Service

100+

Active Members

$300K

Building Fund Goal

1,000+

Veterans Served

VFW Post 8343 members volunteering in the community

Veterans Benefits Assistance

Our trained service officers help veterans navigate VA claims and disability ratings — free of charge, every week.

Memorial Honor Bricks

Personalized engraved bricks permanently honor local veterans at our post memorial. Families can purchase bricks to recognize their loved ones.

Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

Each November 11th, Post 8343 hosts a public ceremony at the Wind Lake Veterans Memorial, drawing hundreds of community members.

Youth Programs

We sponsor Voice of Democracy and Patriots' Pen essay competitions for local students, awarding scholarships and recognizing patriotic writing.

Flag Retirement Ceremonies

Post 8343 conducts dignified flag retirement ceremonies, ensuring worn American flags are retired with proper honor and respect.

Community Fundraising

Weekly fish fries, gun raffles, and special events raise funds for post operations, veteran assistance, and community programs.

Post Life

A glimpse into the people, events, and traditions that make Post 8343 home.

VFW Post 8343 members gathered at the post
Veterans Day ceremony at Wind Lake memorial
Post 8343 members serving the community

Be Part of the Story

Whether you're an eligible veteran, a family member, or a community supporter — there's a place for you at Post 8343.