In the years between 1944 and 1945, local Second World War veterans organized Johnson-Phelps VFW Post #5220, which later gained an official charter. The group first met at the Oaklawn Public Library, then they hosted events at Brandt’s Dug-Out.
The Post relocated to its present home at 52nd Avenue and Yourell Drive in 1951. Post #5220 has been successful in bringing together veterans of different ages and backgrounds during the course of its existence.
Members of the Post and its Ladies Auxiliary have a solid reputation for taking part in community service activities, giving back to hospitals through volunteer labor, and organizing donation drives and charity fundraisers.
Johnson-Phelps has had a significant impact on the neighborhood and continues to improve the lives of countless people through the efforts of its members. Johnson-Phelps is a model citizen who continuously acts as a representative of the unwavering bravery, fortitude, and tenacity of our country’s armed forces, both past, and present.
They have a Ritual Team/Honor Guard made up of 21 uniformed veterans. They hold bingo and poker tournaments on a weekly and monthly basis. Additionally, hall rentals are available for all occasions. The Johnson-Phelps VFW members are prepared to assist you with your requirements.
The Oak Lawn Johnson-Phelps V.F.W., which was established in January 1946, and its Ladies Auxiliary have supported area veterans for 60 years. The group’s initial meeting was held in the Oak Lawn Public Library, but when that location proved to be insufficient, they relocated to Brandt’s Dug Out.
With the aid of contributions and earnings from a performance, land close to 52nd Avenue and Wabash Avenue was acquired in 1950. This money was utilized to build a building for the Johnson-Phelps Post’s members. The post was formally opened on November 11th in commemoration of Veteran’s Day after being finished in 1951, with the majority of the work being done by members.
The V.F.W. continued its community activities in the years that followed, and in 1963 it added to its building. The Hall’s employment as a makeshift morgue to store the tornado victims in 1967 had a significant and terrible role in the disaster. Over 70 years old, the Johnson-Phelps V.F.W. has developed into a landmark in the community and a steadfast presence amidst a sea of constant change.
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