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Welcome to 'Living in Tulsa Oklahoma,' the podcast that dives deep into the heartbeat of Tulsa Oklahoma! Whether you're a long-time Tulsan, a new resident, or just Tulsa-curious, join us as we explore the hidden gems, cultural hotspots, and community dialogues that make this city unique. In each episode, we'll feature interviews with locals and transplants who share their stories, experiences, and perspectives on life in the former Oil Capital of the World. From historical insights to modern-day musings, 'Living in Tulsa Oklahoma' is your guide to living and thriving in Tulsa Oklahoma. Tune in, engage, and celebrate this vibrant community with us.
Intro to Supporting Veterans in Tulsa, Oklahoma with Aaron Allen
I am here today with Aaron Allen. He is with the Glenpool VFW, and I'm so excited to have him as a guest. He actually reached out to me, which I’m really happy about. We’re going to learn more about the VFW in the Glenpool area.
Thank you for being on the show today!
Aaron: Thank you very much. I'm very happy to be here.
Info About VFW Post 9126
Host: Tell us a little bit about the Glenpool VFW — where it's located, its mission, and what it’s all about.
Aaron: Our VFW has a really interesting start. We’re fairly new and had our official grand opening in 2021. Before that, we were getting organized around 2018–2019, and it took some time to get things moving — especially after 2020. In 2021, a few of us decided to really make it happen, held our grand opening, and we’ve been active ever since.
We’re a younger post, age-wise, and being new gives us the opportunity to try out fresh ideas to get the VFW’s mission out to the public.
What the VFW Does
The VFW stands for Veterans of Foreign Wars. It was created for those who have been deployed to combat zones — people who share that experience. Over the years, it has expanded to include veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraq, Afghanistan, and more.
The VFW provides a place for veterans to connect, and it also offers access to benefits. We have service officers who help veterans with disability claims, pensions, funeral benefits for spouses, and more. Each post also tailors its activities to fit the needs of its community.
Meetings and Community
We hold meetings twice a month. Attendance varies, but we use the meetings to plan community events and to find ways to help veterans — whether through financial assistance or other forms of support.
Funding
We receive no federal funding. Everything comes from donations and fundraisers — things like raffles or local events. Some posts raise money through canteens (bars), but since we don’t have that, it can be challenging.
If someone wants to donate, they can reach us through our Facebook page — VFW Post 9126 — and we’ll provide our Cash App or PayPal info. We also give donation receipts since contributions are tax deductible.
Aaron’s Story
Glenpool actually had a VFW years ago, but activity faded. Around 2018, a few residents began asking why Glenpool didn’t have one anymore. That sparked interest, and through Facebook, people connected and decided to bring it back.
After some delays — including 2020 — a group of five of us got together in 2021 and made it official. We launched our post on June 6, 2021, and we’ve been active since.
Membership
We currently have 46 active members and about 65 total, including those behind on dues. Even though we’re small, we’re very proud of our participation.
Spreading the Word
We rely mainly on Facebook because it’s free and easy to reach people. We’re exploring better ways to market ourselves and reach donors, supporters, and volunteers beyond the usual fundraisers.
Our post covers South Tulsa, including Glenpool, Jenks, Bixby, Kiefer, Mounds, and Beggs. We’re the “South Tulsa Post,” while Post 577 covers downtown Tulsa.
About Aaron
I was born in Colorado, grew up in Nebraska, and joined the Marine Corps, serving four years and completing two tours in Iraq. I moved to Oklahoma after my service and have lived in Glenpool for about 14 years now. It’s home — a great little suburb of Tulsa.
Resources for Veterans
There are many organizations veterans can reach out to:
VFW
American Legion
DAV (Disabled American Veterans)
ODVA (Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs)
VA
The new VA Clinic on 91st Street in Tulsa is excellent — they offer primary care, mental health, vision, dental, physical rehab, and more. There’s also a new Veterans Hospital being built near the OSU Medical Center in Tulsa.
Life in Glenpool
I love Glenpool because it’s close to Tulsa but still feels small-town. There’s lots of growth and new neighborhoods, but it still has that community feel.
For those visiting Tulsa, I’d recommend checking out The Riverwalk in Jenks — great restaurants, golf suites, and beautiful scenery.
People Who Inspire Me
The person who has made the biggest difference in my life is my girlfriend, Lindsey. We’ve been together for 12 years, and she’s supported me through everything — always honest, always encouraging.
Pros and Cons of Living in Tulsa
Pros:
Easy to get around once you learn the highways (I-44, 244, 169, 51).
Great access to shopping like Tulsa Hills.
You’re never far from nature or rural areas.
Cons:
Constant road construction — but it’s worth it for good roads!
Tulsa still feels small compared to big cities like Dallas, and I love that about it.
Why Join the VFW
Many people are hesitant to join, but membership helps veteran advocacy at the national level. Since 1917, the VFW has fought for veterans’ benefits and rights in Congress.
Even if someone can’t volunteer much, just being a member strengthens that national voice.
If someone doesn’t qualify for VFW membership, they can still attend events, talk with service officers, and support in other ways.
Membership Details
There are no volunteer requirements to join. Dues are $45 per year, or veterans can choose a lifetime membership (with payment plans available).
Current Fundraisers
Beer Collaboration: The post partnered with CAP Brewing Company in Jenks to brew a beer called 9126. Proceeds go back to the post.
Snapshots with Santa: A Christmas fundraiser featuring a professional Santa and photographer. The post raised over $1,000 last year and donated $500 to the VFW National Home, which supports children of fallen service members.
Guitars for Vets: A 10-week program for disabled veterans offering free lessons, supplies, and a brand-new guitar upon graduation.
All updates and event info can be found on Facebook — VFW Post 9126.
Location
The post is located inside the Glenpool Senior Citizens Building on the south end of Black Gold Park. They’re not open full-time yet but announce meetings and events on Facebook.
Both veterans and the public are welcome to stop by during events or meetings to learn more or volunteer.
Final Thoughts
Aaron:
I want to thank everyone at our post. They’ve put in so much time, energy, and personal resources to keep this going. I’m excited about what’s next and what our post can do for veterans and the community.
For questions or donations:
Facebook: VFW Post 9126
Email: amallen14@gmail.com
Wrap-Up
Thank you, Aaron, for joining me today and for sharing everything about VFW Post 9126 and your story.
Aaron: Thank you for having me. This was a great experience!