Soldier may hang up his oven mitts after 55 years of service years ago
Staff reporter
Saying John Britain of Marion is a loyal member of Marion VFW is like saying Kansas weather is just a little unpredictable.
John has become nearly a fixture at the post home for more than 55 years, serving as bartender, assisting with preparation and serving of meals, and being elected four times as commander of the post home.
"I'm the chief cook and bottle washer," John said with a laugh Monday morning as he and others helped prepare the annual Memorial Day pork roast dinner.
The Chase County resident graduated from Elmdale High School in 1944.
"All but two of us guys in my graduating class joined the military right after graduation," John said.
He served two years, dividing his time between the U.S. Army 99th infantry Division and the First Infantry Division, ending his service as a buck sergeant.
John saw action overseas including the Battle of the Bulge.
He had two brothers who also served.
As the oldest son of four children, John said he was in charge of washing diapers and cooking meals, which is where he began earning his "stripes" as chief cook and bottle washer.
In 1952, John moved to Marion and began his service of helping to prepare meals for both the Marion VFW and the Marion American Legion.
Whatever needed to be done at the post homes, John was the man who was called and he did it.
Members of the VFW in 1972 determined a new post home needed to be built. So John agreed to co-sign a note for a building.
"This building is personal to me," John said.
And his service continued.
John has held about every position in the VFW, including all-state commander of the VFW from 1979 to 1980.
Now, 56 years later, John said it may be time to step aside from his meal preparation duties. It's difficult for John to do this because he has enjoyed serving the community.
"It's time," John said, with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. The 83-year-old soldier is experiencing the same thing others his age, and younger, experience — aching knees, less stamina, and he's ready to slow down a little bit.
John is particularly proud to have his name included on the veterans' wall at Cottonwood Fall which honors Chase County residents who served.
"I'm proud of what I did when I was in the service and appreciate others who have served."
