Where did you serve and what did you do?
Richard “Archie” Pelley joined United States Coast Guard (USCG) February 5, 1951 as a Fireman eventually earning the rate of Chief Boiler Tender. Archie made Chief Warrant Officer while serving on Coast Guard Cutter Barataria (WAVP-31). Warrant Officer Pelley went on to make Chief Warrant Officer 4 before his career ended. He served two tours of duty in the brown water service of Vietnam. His first Vietnam tour coming in 1967 and second tour in 1969 with CG1 Patrol Boats Squadron 1.
How are you #StillServing?
At the age of 91, Archie is still serving, presently, as the VFW Post 2197 Chaplain. He has served in past positions as first and second vice commander here in Topsham, Maine. In the past month, Comrade Pelley has worked a weekend of Operation Buddy Poppie, a Maine District 7 food drive, finishing up the month of May participating in an Honor Flight from Maine to Washington, DC and then returning home, in time, to serve as the Grand Marshall in the local 2022 Memorial Day Parade between the towns of Topsham and Brunswick, Maine.
Why do you do it?
When Comrade Pelley was asked why he still does it, at his age, he explained that in Portland, ME after receiving orders to Vietnam during his first tour, the VFW Post in Portland, presented him with a life membership to the VFW and he has not looked back. He enjoys the camaraderie, friendships, & helping his fellow veterans. While interviewing Comrade Pelley, it is very apparent that he instills pride in service in himself and those he serves with. His continued performance and involvement in his VFW Post and his community is the with the utmost pride, patriotism and love for country one can have.