Heather Ptacek first female Preston VFW commander

Heather Ptacek recently made history when she was elected commander of the Preston VFW in Preston, Minn. 

“I don’t think it’s really sunk in yet,” says Ptacek, but she is certainly up for the challenge as she has faced much more intimidating circumstances while serving in the military.

Ptacek grew up in Preston and graduated from Fillmore Central School.  She joined the Army National Guard in 1996 at the age of 17.

Starting out as a lightweight mechanic to get into Boot Camp, Ptacek then became a member of the Military Police unit with the 95 Bravo Division based in Rosemount, Minn. 

While serving in Bosnia, Sarajevo, in 2003-2004, Ptacek was part of a Protective Service Detail for a three star general that was in charge of the base, which was quite an experience.  After that she was also part of a Protective Service Detail for a two star general.

After returning home, Ptacek was activated several times in Minnesota during tornadoes, for security purposes.

Ptacek was discharged in 2005 at the rank of Specialist and became involved in the VFW shortly thereafter.  She has worked her way up through officer positions and this year was elected as the new commander when the previous commander moved out of town.

As far as anyone associated with the Preston VFW knows through their research, Ptacek is their first female commander, which makes Ptacek  a great role model for other women who strive to become a VFW commander.

Les Puffett,  Chaplain of the Preston VFW and the also new senior vice president of the organization, stated to Ptacek, “There was really no hesitation in asking you at all,” as the members of the VFW have complete faith in Ptacek and her ability to hold the responsibilities of the commander.

Ptacek has a strong family connection to the military, as she not only served herself but also had or has family members in the service, including a brother-in-law, cousins and grandfathers as well as a niece who is currently serving in the United States Navy.

Ptacek led her first VFW meeting as commander in November 2018 and thinks it went well.  The support of the VFW members is a great benefit. “Every meeting I’m learning something,” states Ptacek.

The VFW is a very important part of the city of Preston, as members of the Color Guard provide military services for veterans funerals at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston and with hopes of a veterans home coming to Preston, the Color Guard’s role and the involvement of the VFW will be even more prominent.

“The Club, also known as the Preston Servicemen’s Club, was established in 1959 in Preston as a place to honor those who have served our country during times of war,” states the Facebook page of the Servicemen’s Club, facebook.com/theClubPrestonMN.

As commander, Ptacek is in charge of daily operations of the VFW and is also on the Bar Committee of the Servicemen’s Club.

“Our historic downtown location serves as a meeting center and place of refreshment for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion,” states the Facebook page, which explains the importance and necessity of the building.

The VFW gives to many charitable organizations and participates in many events throughout the year.  During the holidays The Club, located at 217 Saint Paul St SW in Preston, is a drop-off spot for Toys for Tots. 

Be sure to plan on attending the many events held at The Club each year, such as the turkey jamboree, turkey bingo, gun raffles, burger nights, meat raffles and many more activities.

Members of the VFW are also very active during Preston’s annual town celebration, Trout Days and volunteer many hours for a variety of events in the community.

There are many reasons Ptacek accepted the challenge of being commander, although a big factor was because she is one of the youngest members who attends meetings on a regular basis and she feels it is critical for younger members to get involved in the VFW. 

Ptacek does not have any certain goals or big changes planned as commander.  “I just want to keep this place open,” explains Ptacek.  She remembers when the VFW was in the top level of the current building and the main level was the post office.  “We used to get our mail here,” she reminisces.

“When they started remodeling down here I can remember helping build stuff down here,” she explains.  It is important to Ptacek and to all of the VFW members that they maintain The Club for the veterans use and enjoyment.

The Club offers a full indoor bar and an outdoor deck lounge as well as event spaces which are open to the public.

Ptacek stresses the importance of having young people get involved in the VFW in order to keep it going.  Anyone who would like to stop by a meeting and see what it is all about can attend the meetings, which are held on the first Thursday of each month.  For more information phone The Club at (507) 765-2205 or contact any VFW member.