SUMMERVILLE, S.C. – The Summerville Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3433, a long-standing gathering place for local veterans and their families, will close its doors this Sunday due to the rising cost of liquor liability insurance. The closure will result in the loss of seven jobs and the displacement of numerous community groups who relied on the post as a safe haven.
The VFW, a nonprofit organization, has been a vital part of the Summerville community, providing a meeting place for veterans and supporting local initiatives such as holiday dinners for families in need and school supply donations. However, recent spikes in insurance costs have made it impossible for the post to continue operations. The insurance, mandated by a 2017 state law requiring all establishments with liquor licenses to carry at least $1 million in coverage, is intended to protect against liabilities related to overserving patrons. Yet, businesses argue that the financial burden is unsustainable.
Paul Pittman, Quartermaster of Post 3433, explained that the post was recently dropped by its insurance provider, forcing them to seek new coverage. The quotes they received were shockingly high, ranging from $50,000 to $60,000 annually. Even the lowest quote they are considering, at $35,000 per year, represents a more than 400% increase from their previous rate of $664 per month.
“We were already struggling to maintain profitability at $664 a month,” Pittman said. “At $3,000 a month, it’s just not feasible for us to continue.”
The closure of the VFW post has broader implications for the community. The post has served as a meeting place for three Scouts of America troops and has been a crucial support network for veterans suffering from PTSD. The sudden loss of this safe space is a blow to those who relied on the camaraderie and understanding found within its walls.
Robin Pittman, a VFW member and wife of the Quartermaster, expressed her frustration and sorrow over the situation. “We’re going to put seven people out of a job Sunday morning. This is one establishment, but it’s a place that means so much to so many.”
State Representative Jordan Pace, who visited the post on Friday, acknowledged the severity of the issue. He noted that while efforts have been made in the legislature to address the crisis, political inaction continues to have real-life consequences. “This isn’t a partisan issue; it cuts across both Republican and Democrat lines,” Pace said. “It’s really about who has power in Columbia and how they wield that power.”
Despite the closure, VFW Post 3433 members are determined to work toward a solution, potentially depending on future state legislation to regulate insurance costs. Until then, the Summerville community will feel the loss of this cherished institution.