ALTON - The Alton VFW Post 1308 invites the community to join them for a special cleanup effort.
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On Saturday, May 9, 2026, VFW members and the public will come together to pick up litter along Highway 255. Called the Russell E. Dunham Memorial Highway, this portion of 255 is named after a Medal of Honor recipient. Post 1308, also known as the Russell E. Dunham Memorial Post 1308, is eager to give back.
“In the VFW, you serve no matter what,” said Post Commander Chris Miller. “the biggest impact I can make as a member or a post commander or anything is to get involved in the community and let people know who we are and that we’re there for them, no matter if they’re a veteran or not.”
On May 9, those who wish to participate will meet at 9:30 a.m. at 4445 N. Alby Street in Alton. Participants will spread out along the Russell E. Dunham Memorial Highway and pick up trash.
Miller emphasized that the goal is to help the community while also increasing visibility. Post 1308 is a resource for veterans, but also a place of entertainment for the general public. He encourages people to come out and enjoy everything they have to offer.
Additionally, Miller is in the process of submitting the paperwork so that Post 1308 can be named an All-American post. VFWs across the country can receive this honor, which is “a big accomplishment,” Miller said.
To be named an All-American post, you must submit reports, increase your membership numbers, and hold certain events, including a day of service. Miller “thought it’d be fitting” to focus their day of service to the Russell E. Dunham Memorial Highway since Dunham is also the namesake of the post.
Once they finish the cleanup and finalize a few more reports, they will receive the All-American honor. To help them reach this milestone, Miller encourages VFW members to renew their memberships, and interested parties can reach out about becoming a member.
He added that a local VFW is a big asset to a community. Not only does the organization help veterans and service members, but it also serves as a community space for the public to enjoy.
“It is a veteran organization first and foremost, but we are open to the public,” he said, adding that they have a bar, games, and often feature live music.
Miller hopes people will come out to the cleanup to show their support and help the post receive All-American status. He believes the cleanup will be a great day for the post, but also a way to help the broader Riverbend community.
For more information about Alton VFW Post 1308, visit their official website.
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