Sylvester “Sy” Schaefer of Austin received the highest honor in the State of Minnesota for the honor degree of the VFW’s Military Order of the Cootie at the recent meeting of Pup Tent 19.

Even though Sy is over 90 years old, he still continues to serve veterans as a member of the Austin VFW, Military Order of Cooties, and the Adams American Legion. Sy served as a carpenter in the U.S. Navy during World War II and uses those skills to help others. His veterans activities include organizing the annual Corn Feed, bringing donations of clothes and books to the Hastings Veterans Home, helping with bingo parties, and visiting the Minneapolis VA Hospital. He also organized the “Banana Run,” which has been brining bananas and cheer to residents in Mower County care centers for over 20 years. He works continuously for our veterans and his knowledge and caring is irreplaceable.

He is also active in the Moose Lodge, having served in many offices and holding the highest honor of Pilgrim Degree.

Sy served as the commander of VFW Post 1216 from 2002-05 and has been an active member of the Military Order of the Cootie for 57 years. He is truly an example of the Cootie motto, “Keep them smiling in beds of white.”

He received a surprise at the Hastings Veterans Home when Sue Register, volunteer service coordinator, presented him with a Quilt of Valor. Also in attendance were Daphne Wagner, Gloria Njos and Marie and Bob Norrgaard. They also enjoyed a Spam dinner for all the residents prepared by Hormel Foods employees.