SHAWANO, WI- After years of planning, fundraising, and dedication, a new chapter officially began for Shawano’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2723 as members, supporters, and local leaders gathered Monday for a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the organization’s future home on Olson Street.
The new VFW facility will replace the longtime post location, which has served local veterans for more than 70 years. Post Commander Tom Huffman, who has been a member for 25 years, called the day “a big deal” for the post and its members—many of whom have long struggled with accessibility in the current basement-level space.
“Our current facility requires going down 11 steps. We’ve lost a lot of members over the years because they physically couldn’t make that trip anymore,” Huffman said. “I’ve carried, pushed, and pulled too many veterans up and down those stairs. This new, ADA-accessible building is going to change that. We deserve this.”
The new building will be a larger, more inclusive space designed to serve not just VFW members, but the entire community. With improved capacity, full accessibility, and modern amenities, the project represents a bold investment in the future of Shawano’s veterans.
The project would not be possible without the generosity of Randy and Mary Bohm and their family, whose donation helped propel the project forward.
“We’re proud to be part of this,” Randy Bohm said during the ceremony. “My father and my wife’s father both served overseas in World War II. I’ve had a son, grandson, and brother all serve in the military. This project means a lot to me personally. Veterans deserve a place where they can gather, connect, and be honored in a building that meets their needs.”
Bayland Buildings is leading the construction, with work scheduled to begin immediately and an ambitious goal to be completed by Veterans Day 2025.
Jesse Rankin, who introduced Commander Huffman, emphasized the day’s deeper meaning beyond the shovels and soil.
“This groundbreaking isn’t just about a new building. It’s about a vision—about honoring service, creating a future, and building a space that reflects the heart and mission of the VFW,” Rankin said. “It will be a place where stories are shared, bonds are formed, and a legacy continues.”
The event drew an enthusiastic crowd, including VFW members, families, local dignitaries, and representatives from the Shawano Chamber of Commerce.
In closing, Huffman turned to Bayland and summed up the energy in one simple sentence:
“Bayland Builders… start building.”
Construction is now officially underway, with a ribbon cutting expected in time for a very meaningful Veterans Day 2025.
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