After 9/11, He Defended the Pentagon: Now He’s Leading Sayreville’s Veterans With Heart

SAYREVILLE, NJ — For Commander Dan Vardalis, service is more than a career—it’s a calling. With 26 years in the U.S. Army, including being deployed to defend the Pentagon just days after the September 11 attacks, Vardalis has dedicated his life to protecting others. Now, he leads the Sayreville VFW Post 4699, bringing veterans together and connecting them with the community.

“I joined the Army in 1999,” Vardalis said. “After 9/11, I was deployed to the Pentagon in two or three days. We were in charge of security inside and outside the building. That experience really showed me how important it is to take care of the people around you.”

His military career also included deployments to Guantanamo Bay and Afghanistan, where he worked in military police and detainee operations. Later, he helped train soldiers preparing for deployment. “We did a lot of training for soldiers going overseas, preparing them for what to expect,” Vardalis said. “Because of our experience, we could help mold and teach new soldiers before they went into a theater of war.”

For those thinking about joining the military, Vardalis offers advice rooted in personal experience. “Service doesn’t have to be for life,” he said. “There’s things you can do—four or five years—and then get out and get a good job that will pay you. There are jobs in the Army that translate to the civilian world: IT, truck drivers, electricians, air traffic controllers. Everyone’s story is a little different, but you can do it.”

As Commander of Post 4699, Vardalis channels that same sense of duty into supporting veterans and fostering community connections. “It’s camaraderie,” he said. “You meet people who served in the same area you did, from Iraq and Afghanistan all the way back to World War II. The VFW gives veterans a place to talk to people who understand you—sometimes you can’t talk about overseas experiences in the civilian world, but here you can.”

Joining the VFW is simple for veterans. “All you need is your DD214 or discharge paperwork showing that you served,” Vardalis said. “From there, you can come in, dedicate your time, and be part of the community.”

The post hosts a variety of events for both veterans and residents. On Memorial Day, nearly 400 people attended a post-celebration following the borough parade. “Local businesses donated food, and we had games, bounce houses, and even an ice cream truck,” Vardalis said. “Families could enjoy time together while honoring veterans. Most people usually go to a bar after a parade—but I wanted a place for families, so everyone could have a good time.”

The VFW also hosts karaoke nights, cornhole leagues, and special events like murder mystery dinners. “It’s about connecting with people, meeting veterans and neighbors, and having a little fun,” Vardalis said. “We also lobby for VA benefits and help veterans with medical or career support. It’s networking and service all in one.”

This year, Post 4699 celebrates its 80th anniversary, with a special gala planned for January 17, 2026, at the Jernee Mill Road location. “It’s open to all veterans, their families, and the community,” Vardalis said. “I wanted to do something really nice for the veterans, especially those who are older. We’re having a live band and a great evening—kind of like a wedding without the wedding. It’s about celebrating veterans and honoring their service.”

“Being part of the VFW means honoring traditions, helping fellow veterans, and giving back to the community,” Vardalis said. “It keeps the spirit of service alive, and it reminds us that no one has to do it alone.”

Veterans interested in joining or learning more about the Sayreville VFW Post 4699 can call (732) 254-4789 or visit vfwsayreville.com.