Troop Town Mishawaka replaces Battell Park flags while preparing to welcome first resident this Veterans Day

MISHAWAKA, Ind. — After seven years of planning and 13 months of construction, Troop Town Mishawaka is now a reality.

At Battell Park, service flags were replaced and the national standard raised high once again, thanks to members of Troop Town Mishawaka, who wanted to give back to the city and its oldest park for helping get the project off the ground.

“It’s Old Glory herself,” said Dan Gann, vice president of Mishawaka Troop Town. “This day can be very emotional for me. I love this country. I love everything we do. Veterans need to rise to the occasion, so that’s what we do.”

“Partnering with Troop Town has been an incredible thing for us because they provide essential services to veterans who need it most,” said Mayor Dave Wood.

Both Gann and Jim Metherd, president of Mishawaka Troop Town, are veterans and members of VFW Post 360.

“I believe that veterans should lead the way by serving their community. We’re no longer wearing a uniform, but it doesn’t mean our service is over,” said Gann.

“It’s incredible to give back to the city of Mishawaka, but also to help veterans who aren’t in a place to participate in a ceremony like this,” Jim Methard said.

After 23 years in the Army, Gann said Troop Town has given him a new call to service, helping fellow veterans find the stability the VFW Post has offered him for all these years. “I want veterans who’ve found themselves homeless to get a second lease on life, be successful, and be able to give back to our community,” he said.

With declining membership in American Legions and VFWs nationwide, Gann said their mission depends on continued donations and involvement from the next generation of veterans.

“It’s important to keep these organizations alive so we can continue to support the community,” he said.

On Veterans Day, the group announced it is officially welcoming its first resident into the new Troop Town Village. Leaders hope to fill the remaining units by the end of the year.

Their work doesn’t stop here. Troop Town members will prepare Thanksgiving dinner at the VFW this holiday season as they prepare to welcome seven more unhoused veterans by the end of the year.
For more information or to help visit this link: https://www.mishawakatrooptown.org