The VFW National Home for Children is celebrating its 90th Anniversary throughout 2015. As part of that celebration, we will be focusing on one decade of the National Home’s history each month. This month, we highlight the 1960’s. Expansion of the Recreational Area With combined efforts of the Scouts and VFW members from Wisconsin, Minnesota, California and Michigan, a new scout cabin was completed in the Fall of 1960 on the bank of Lake Romanis. The cabin was complete with a large, beautiful fireplace, a large room for Scout meetings, bunks for sleeping 12 Scouts and a loft to accomodate 8 more. The scout cabin is still used today by the Boy Scouts and guests that enjoy a primitive camping experience. Marble Tournament held at National Home Soon after World War II, the Veterans of Foreign Wars started the first truly nation-wide marbles tournament, called the National Marbles Tournament. In the 1940’s a decision was made to hold the yearly tournament at the VFW National Home for Children in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. A total of 45 youngsters from 40 VFW Departments took part in the 1960 National Tournament held at the VFW National Home for Children. Four of the entries represented branches of the armed forces of the United States. The marble contestants enjoyed a special parade in Eaton Rapids, held on their behalf. Alumni killed in Vietnam Sadly, Elgie G. Hanna was killed in action on March 20, 1968 while on patrol near Quang Tri, Viet Nam. He was given a full military funeral at the National Home Chapel with interment in the VFW National Home for Children alumni section in Rose Hill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids, MI. Elgie came to the Home in July 1955 with his brothers Richard, Gary, Duane and sister Angela. A plaque was recently placed in the Tribute Park at the National Home in honor of alumni who made the ultimate sacrafice.