Most rooms are connected by halls, but what do you call a hall that is the room? In Naperville, you might call that hall, “VFW.” And if you do, the formal name is Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873, if you please!
The name sake of the Hall is the son of a former Naperville Mayor and School Superintendent, killed in action in World War I, and born in the building that is now home to Quigley’s Irish Pub.
The VFW Hall was built in 1962, with a combination of veterans volunteering and contractors. (The previous building the Naperville VFW occupied was located on the south side of the Burlington Northern train station.)
Today’s VFW is a two-story brick Flexicore building. Flexicore is a flooring product used in commercial building and made of lightweight concrete, precast and prestressed.
The top floor of the VFW Hall is comprised of a banquet facility with commercial kitchen, full service bar, two pull down video screens and projectors, integrated sound system, and WIFI – available for rental. The banquet facility has some of the best views of the Rivewalk and Jaycees Park.
The first floor is comprised of a members meeting room, small conference room, office, and utility closets (with the original boiler). The site has a large parking lot with multiple exits, and open green space. Members have received an Outstanding National Community Service Post designation for the last eight years by the National VFW.
I know the VFW Hall well as it was the first place I enjoyed fellowship with my fellow Jaycees some 17 years ago.
Phil Maughan is the current Quartermaster for the Hall and Past Commander. He has been a member of this post for 25 years. Phil likes the facility as it helps bring together members.
“It is good to see so many members working on behalf of Veterans and the community while at the Post,” Phil said.
For VFW rental information visit, napervfw3873.org.