Any definition of a full and productive life must include service to others." Those words from a proclamation by Sen. Ryan Aument perfectly describe Walter and Louise Gerhart.

The Manheim couple has dedicated more than 55 years of service to the Manheim VFW Post 5956. On June 1, they were treated to a surprise party honoring their commitment to the post.

"Without Walt and Louise's steady hand, we wouldn't be where we are today," said post commander Craig Fisher. "Thank you for everything you have done for us."

During the party, held in the community room of the post, 149 S. Charlotte St., Manheim, the Gerharts were toasted with words of praise from Tracy Tunstall, president of the auxiliary; Joan Faddis, district auxiliary president; and Barbara Loncar, VFW state commander.

"We are honoring both of you today for your service," Tunstall said, noting that the Gerharts live across the street from the post and could always be counted on to pitch in wherever needed. "I'm pretty sure Louise has cleaned a toilet or two here. She's mopped the floor. I don't think there's much Louise has not done in this room. Words cannot express the knowledge that has come out of this woman and this man. And they're still teaching us."

Faddis said she's known Louise for 47 years and was honored to present a citation of congratulations from the state auxiliary. "Your untiring work of service and sacrifice is unmeasurable," she told Louise.

Loncar presented a certificate of special recognition, telling Walt, "We honor your service, your courage, and most of all, your sacrifice."

Walt served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was discharged as a corporal and worked for many years for an asbestos plant in Manheim. Walt and Louise are the parents of three children. They have nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. They have been married for 58 years.

During his time at the post, Walt held every post position, including serving as commander twice. He's been the post quartermaster on and off for the past 25 years and served as post chaplain, and he was instrumental in supporting the VFW youth baseball program in Manheim. Louise has served as state historian for the auxiliary and as auxiliary district president. She currently serves as chair of the trustee, scholarship and hospital committees at the post.

"Walt and Louise have made a difference both in Manheim and at the state level," Fisher said as he presented a proclamation from Manheim mayor Scott Funk. Fisher also presented Walt and Louise each with proclamations from Sen. Aument.

Before the party guests enjoyed a spaghetti dinner, Fisher made one more presentation to the Gerharts: He gave them a plaque engraved with their names that will be displayed in the community room. "We are naming this room after you two," he told the couple. "We cannot thank you enough for everything you have done for this post."

The Gerharts said they were completely surprised by the party. "I thought we were coming for a celebration for Walt, and he thought we were coming for a party for Craig," Louise said with a laugh. "Everyone blew us away with this."

Some of the couple's family attended the party, and the pair enjoyed socializing with post members and friends.

"I'm really overwhelmed by this," Walt said. "It's very nice."

Service to the VFW is something Walt said just comes naturally to him, and he's glad he's been able to give back for more than half a century.

"I do it because of all the good things we as an organization can do for our veterans," he said. "It's important."