Stroup–Alexander VFW Post 5935 celebrates 80th anniversary

BELLEVILLE -- Nowhere in its charter does it say that Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5935 would ingrain itself so deeply into community life, becoming a beacon of benevolence throughout the Big Valley.

Yet today, 80 years after it was chartered, the post stands as a lasting monument to a group of individuals led by John Hostetler, a World War I veteran, who organized the very first meeting at the Belleville Community Hall. Thirty-five names were inscribed on the original charter--none of whom are with us today. Known as the driving force behind the effort, Hostetler was elected commander at that first meeting.

Soon after, the Post acquired a property to be known as the Stroup-Alexander Post home. Historical records show the building was purchased from the Levi M. Yoder Estate for approximately $15,000--equivalent to roughly $275,000 today.

Chartered in February 1946, the post was dedicated in honor of two Belleville servicemen: Private John C. Stroup, U.S. Army, and Lt. Commander Hugh S. Alexander, U.S. Navy. Both were the first from the Belleville community to be killed in action in World War I and World War II, respectively. Private Stroup was killed on Sept. 12, 1918, in France, and Lt. Commander Alexander lost his life on Dec. 7, 1941, during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

In May 1950, the VFW erected a memorial monument on the front lawn of the post to honor those from the community who gave their lives in service to our country. This monument remains the centerpiece of the annual Memorial Day ceremony, bearing plaques with the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in every war to date.

One of the post's most enduring traditions is its Memorial Day ceremony and parade--held every year for 80 consecutive years without interruption. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the post ensured the tradition continued by organizing a detail to pay tribute to the fallen. The post takes immense pride in this unbroken streak and is grateful for the continued support of the community in honoring this sacred tradition.

Since its founding, VFW Post 5935 has been supported by generations of veterans and families driven by patriotism and pride in the United States of America following the end of World War II. Over the years, the post has supported veterans in need, hosted countless community events, and served as a gathering place for wedding receptions, baby showers, christenings, Boy Scouts, the women's auxiliary, local sports teams, fire and ambulance volunteers and many more.

Most recently, the post sponsored the Belleville Family Christmas celebration in 2023 and 2024, with the event moving to township grounds in 2025. The strength and vision of the original charter members are still evident today, especially in their purchase of the beautiful three-story home on East Main Street, once considered a mansion, which now houses the post, including a museum on the third floor.

For 80 years, VFW Post 5935 has stood strong. Without the dedication of its members and social members, this legacy would not have been possible.