7/8/2026
I am happy to report that Comrade Briggs is back home and in good spirits. I stopped by his home today to confirm there were no issues with his discharge from the rehab facility and his transition home.
Robert W. Hutchison
Surgeon
VFW Post 280
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7/8/2026
Micheal Collins is doing well, but his infection is not 100% taken care of. He is currently on liquid antibiotics, which is delaying his therapy start date to strengthen his core body again. His new rehab room/facility is in good condition, but he stated the food isn't that good; when is healthcare facility food ever good? It looks like he will be at the rehab facility in Centralia, MO until at least the end of August.
Peggy Collins is still at the facility in Mexico, MO since she still can't stand on her leg yet. She is doing well and her release date is unknown at this time.
Don Briggs was released from the Columbia Acute Care facility on July 2nd, which I confirmed with the facility today. I tried to call him on two different phone numbers and both have full voicemail boxes, so I am unable to get a status by phone. I was provided his home address and will stop by soon to get a status update. More to follow.
I will let the Commander and Junior Vice Commander provide updates on their wives as they see fit.
Wishing all our comrades and family members in distress, get well soon wishes.
Robert W. Hutchison
Surgeon
VFW Post 280
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I just received a text message from comrade Collins. He has been moved to the Heritage Hall Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing Facility located at 750 East Hwy #22, Centralia, MO 65240, Room 203.
Peggy is doing well and still at the Pin Oaks Living Center in Mexico, MO.
Let's keep them both in our prayers and wish them a speedy recovery.
Robert W. Hutchison
Surgeon
VFW Post 280
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6/24/2026
I have an update on Don Briggs, he is scheduled to be discharged from the Post Acute Care facility July 2nd. He is working on issues to reintegrate with his wife and move back home after being discharged.
I have another update on Frank Frevert, he is out of the hospital and home recovering after having two stents put in. He is weak but feeling good.
Michael Collins' infection was removed and he is in good spirits, but sore. He was moved to a rehab facility recently and I am waiting for him to text me his location and room number. More to follow as I hear back from him about his move.
I wish all our members and their family members in distress, well wishes and a speedy recovery.
Robert W. Hutchison
Surgeon
VFW Post 280
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Comrades,
A Retired AirForce veteran Marty Bonin has been in Boone Hospital and has had many procedures performed, he has been moved to C455 Social Surgery Clinic. Comrade Charles Brown has visited him today and able to get a few chuckles out of him today during his visit.
Request for any comrades to stop by and visit with him he has been there for quite a while anytime spent with him will help him build his spirits also.
Thank you,
Ed Miller
Commander
VFW Post 280
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Comrades,
It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I report to you that Richard (Dick) Coder passed away. At present time he will be cremated, and a celebration of life will be at a later date. I will keep you informed on when that will be and any information that comes to our attention. Please continue thoughts and prayers for Georgian Coder as she processes this loss.
Thank you,
Ed Miller
Commander
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Emil and Pam Forck are asking for prayers, strength, and encouragement for Auxiliary Member Pam who is currently battling cancer and working hard through recovery. Pam has served their community and fellow veterans with dedication, and now it’s our turn to stand with them.
We invite all comrades, family, and friends to keep them in your thoughts. A simple message, a call, or a card can go a long way in lifting their spirits during this difficult time.
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I have gone a visited our members who are in Columbia Post Acute Care Don Briggs (rm107) and Larry Lammers (rm 169) They both are doing good and appreciate having visitors so if you can take a few minutes out of your day to go by and visit they would really appreciate the company. Columbia post-acute care is located behind Morsers on 3535 Berry wood in Columbia, Mo. I think they would really appreciate the Honor Guard guys coming to see them.
