by June Portnoy
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 6393 in Lower Makefield, stands as a shining example of service and community engagement. With approximately 225 members, this post dates back to 1946, founded by World War II veterans. Under the leadership of Commander Kirk Saboda, now in his third year, Post 6393 has earned the prestigious All-American Status twice. More importantly, it has become a vital part of the local community, serving veterans and fostering connections with residents of all ages.
Saboda has prioritized attracting younger veterans, including those in the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). Initiatives like yoga classes and a run/walk 5K club cater to this demographic. The post’s remodeled space, with an industrial motif and gaming systems, reflects a modern aesthetic designed to appeal to younger members and their families. “Today’s veterans want spaces where their spouses feel welcome too,” Saboda said, who strives to ensure that this post provides a welcoming environment where both male and female veterans can feel at home.
As winter chills Lower Bucks County, Post 6393 gears up to serve. One significant effort is its involvement in the Code Blue initiative through AHTN (Advocates for the Homeless and Those in Need), which provides aid to the homeless during dangerously cold weather. “Whether they are veterans or not, we help ensure no one is left in the cold,” Saboda shared. Members assist by donating coats, driving buses, and collaborating with local churches that manage the program
On January 22, the post hosted its annual awards dinner at the Continental Tavern in Yardley. This invitation-only event celebrated young essay writers who participated in the VFW’s essay contests, which encouraged students to reflect on themes of Americanism and patriotism. High School essay winners included: 1st place, Hayden Tarantino from Council Rock South (also taking 2nd place at the District level); 2nd place, Andrew Prasanth from Pennsbury High School; and 3rd place, Aidan Johnston from Bucks County Technical High School.
Middle school essay winners included: 1st place, Sierra Babcock, Maple Point Middle School (also taking 3rd place at the District level); 2nd place, Joanne Tierney, St. Ignatius of Antioch (also taking 1st place at the District level); and 3rd place, Allesandra Stamato, St. Ignatius of Antioch.
Winners were presented with financial awards. In addition, Post 6393 recognized Anthony Vizzini of Carl Sandburg Middle School as their nominee (also placing 1st at the District level) to receive the VFW’s Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award, which recognizes America’s best educators who instill a sense of national pride in students.
Saboda emphasized the dinner’s unique atmosphere, enriched by restaurant proprietor Frank Lyons, also a Revolutionary War reenactor, and a strong turnout from local and state representatives.
The post also provides year-round advocacy and assistance. Its Thursday “office hours” program exemplifies its dedication to veterans’ welfare. A state VFW representative is available weekly at the post to assist veterans with filing claims for VA healthcare benefits, including disability claims for conditions like Agent Orange exposure. “This service helps about five to six veterans weekly,” Saboda noted. Post volunteers oversee the pre-screening process ensuring efficiency, preventing veterans from needing multiple visits to gather necessary documentation.
All of these services are free—a sharp contrast to predatory services that exploit veterans by charging exorbitant fees. “We navigate the bureaucracy so veterans can focus on healing and rebuilding,” Saboda said.
The post’s home repair initiative, spearheaded by a retired member with a background in handyman services, has become a lifeline for older veterans. “From fixing uneven flooring to replacing broken toilets, these repairs restore dignity and safety to veterans’ homes,” Saboda shared. Since its inception, the program has completed approximately 60 home repairs, saving veterans an estimated $15,000 in labor costs. For those unable to afford materials, the post steps in to cover expenses, ensuring no veteran goes without essential repairs.
In another effort to make the post itself more inclusive, members recently remodeled the bathrooms to accommodate wheelchair-bound veterans. This project underscores the post’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all.
Post 6393’s relationship with local scouting organizations is a cornerstone of its community involvement. The post sponsors both a Cub Scout Pack (Pack 30) and a Venture Crew (Crew 6393), offering its facility for meetings and activities. “We’re not just sponsors; we’re their legal representatives, like a church or school might be,” Saboda explained.
One of the most cherished annual events is the Cub Scout-focused Veterans Night in November. Scouts, along with their parents, gather to learn about the military, flag folding, and civic responsibilities. “It’s a collaborative event that instills patriotism in young minds,” Saboda said. Older scouts from the Venture Crew take leadership roles during the event, guiding younger participants in activities and ceremonies.
Scouts volunteer to help out at the post’s fundraisers like its Classic Car Show in July. With over 120 vehicles, live music, food trucks, and community booths, the event draws crowds from across the region. The post also organizes a Wrangler Fest in late September or early October, featuring Jeep Wranglers, silent auctions, and unique sponsor activities. Both events raise funds exclusively for veterans’ needs, from covering heating bills to emergency plumbing repairs.
The post’s poppy campaign, held around Easter, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day, raises funds for its relief fund. These proceeds are reserved for critical needs, such as heating assistance and home repairs. “The relief fund ensures we can act quickly to support veterans in crisis,” Saboda emphasized.
Looking ahead, Post 6393 aims to maximize its three-acre property with additional outdoor events and festivals. “We want to create more opportunities for veterans to connect with the community,” Saboda said.
VFW Post 6393 continues to evolve while staying true to its core mission: supporting veterans and fostering community. With initiatives spanning youth engagement, veteran advocacy, and public service, the post is a model of what a modern VFW chapter can achieve. As Saboda reflected, “This is a place for veterans to feel at home and know they are valued.”
For more information, visit Post 6393’s Facebook page or website address at www.yardleyvfw.com/ or our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/vfwpost6393. Post 6393 is located at 1444 Yardley Newtown Rd in Lower Makefield.