Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4372, looking to continue its community outreach in Ector County, has two scheduled events for the public.
The Sixth Annual Brantley Mitchell Memorial Truck Show is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 14 at the VFW Post, 208 E. VFW Lane. At 8 a.m. Oct. 4, the Second Annual VFW Post 4372 Clay Shoot Competition will be held at the Midland Shooters Association, 7400 West County Road 140.
Both events are open to the public.
“Just like any other nonprofit, we rely on sponsorships and donations so we can give back to the community,” Rick Mitchell, commander for VFW Post 4372, said.
The car show is held to honor Mitchell’s son, Brantley Mitchell, who died in 2019 after a motorcycle accident in West Odessa.
The event is $20 for entry. In 2023, awards were given to a diesel champion, fan favorite, muscle car competition and best in show.
“He was fearless, so we’ve been doing this car show in his name,” Mitchell said.
After the success of their inaugural clay shoot, the VFW Post 4372 Clay Shoot Competition was brought back to act as a fundraiser.
Raising about $7,000 in 2023, Mitchell is hoping this year’s event is bigger. The entry price is $200 for an individual or $800 for a team of four. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Mitchell said the events also help make the community aware of Post 4372 and how they work with veterans.
Since June, the VFW Auxiliary has hosted a morning breakfast for veterans and the community. In July, the Post hosted a Fourth of July event. Mitchell also organized and delivered relief with the Heroes for Herds, delivering items in April to areas affected by the Smokehouse Creek Fire.
Since their community outreach efforts have grown, Mitchell said he has seen an increase in members of the community attending their events, especially during their Bingo nights.
“People understand that we’re here and we’re not going anywhere,” he said. “We’re always here to help the community.”
If you go
- What: Sixth Annual Brantley Mitchell Memorial Truck Show.
- When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 14.
- Where: Odessa VFW Post 4372, 208 E. VFW Lane.
- Cost: $20 car show entry fee. Online registration at linktr.ee/vfwevents
If you go
- What: Second annual VFW Post 4372 Clay Shoot Competition.
- When: 8 a.m. Oct. 4.
- Where: Midland Shooters Association, 7400 West County Road 140.
- Cost: $200 for individual shooters or $800 for a team of four.
- Call: Clint Parker at 936-900-4704 or Rick Mitchell at 432-770-7511.
