VFW Post 1523 adopts smoke-free indoor 
PUTNAM — After nearly 100 years, the Albert J. Breault VFW POST 1523 has voted to remove smoking from all indoor areas of its private club, effective March 31. 
“Our veterans have already borne enough,” said Ray Beausoleil, quartermaster, VFW Post 1523. “This step protects the men and women we serve, the families who stand with them, and the team members who support our mission every day. It’s the right call—morally, medically, and mission?wise.”
 “Our canteen and our upstairs hall are community hubs,” said Helena Mamudovski, Canteen manager. “We host more than 700 community meals a year and can seat 200-plus upstairs for events. Going smoke-free ensures every veteran and neighbor feels comfortable here—whether they’re attending a meeting, grabbing a bite after a volunteer shift, or celebrating a life milestone.”
The details: The smoke-free indoor policy applies to all clubroom/canteen areas and event spaces within the building; outdoor accommodation areas will be clearly signed where permitted by local ordinance; the House Committee and staff will implement and enforce updated House rules, with member education and signage.
The community can help the post sustain and expand its mission by: Booking the upstairs hall (200+ capacity) for meetings, trainings, banquets, celebrations, and nonprofit fund-raisers; dining and socializing in the downstairs canteen; sponsoring meals or veteran?support programming; and volunteering and partnering on community projects
“To every veteran and friend of veterans: you’re welcome here,” added Beausoleil. “Help us keep this place strong—for camaraderie, remembrance, and service.”

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