The Carbon County Navy Club Ship 260 has been serving waterborne military branches for 12 years.

At one time, the club boasted over 40 members, but as the years ticked by, the club membership has dwindled to just a dozen men and women.

Robert “Ski” Siesputowski, a charter member of the club and a driving force that brought the club to reality, said that is important to get the club’s membership numbers up again. The club welcomes veterans and active military of the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Marines and Merchant Marines.

Siesputowski said that over the years, the club has educated students about American flag etiquette, installed six monuments recognizing waterborne military branches in six municipalities and try to provide veterans with a place to help their colleagues.

“We try to get into just about everything,” Siesputowski said.

His sights have also been set on creating a veterans museum in Lansford and he said he has been speaking to the county regarding making this idea a reality.

Siesputowski welcomes any military veteran of a waterborne branch to attend the club’s monthly meetings, held at the Nesquehoning VFW Post 8008 hall at 7 p.m. on the last Monday of each month.

If you are interested in joining, but can’t make the meeting, call Siesputowski at 570-645-6586 and he will mail out an application. Annual dues are $15.

“Everyone is welcome,” he said.