
We Own a Bar
No really, the Howlin’ Mad detachment #93 was fortunate enough in 2021 to acquire a VFW post in Merrillville Indiana that recently closed. We affectionately refer to that establishment as the “Tun Tavern” and have been building a following ever since. We like to think of the Tun Tavern as an unstoppable force that has a home wherever the history is celebrated, if you don’t know the history of the Tun Tavern or the Marine Corps please read “The History” section below.
You DO NOT need to be a veteran to come to our club but you do need to be a member to come regularly. We have Regular (Veterans) and Associate (Non-Veteran) Memberships available, it’s $40 a year. We invite you to stop in and check us out, you can do that as a visitor, we’re normally open:
Hours
- Wednesday – Friday: 4PM to 10PM
- Saturday & Sunday: Noon to 10PM
- As of 10/14/2024 the decision was made to no longer open for Monday night football due to low turnout.
Location
6880 Hendricks St.
Merrillville, IN 46410
Phone
(219) 525-4277
(The phone is only answered during business hours, you are welcome to leave a message but calling during business hours is usually best.)
Let’s Stay in Touch
Everyone has a phone these days, and as such that is the perfect outlet to get happenings at the club directly into your hands. If you would allow us the privilege of texting news and events at the club to you we promise not to to abuse that.
Here’s how to sign up for our text group:
- Text Join to 833-237-0767
- OR go HERE to sign up.
- Sit back and get news and events delivered right to your hot little hand.
We will also post events here as they are scheduled, please keep an eye out.
Bar Events and Specials
Please Visit our Events Page
The History
As you may or may not know our beloved Marine Corps was born in a bar in Philadelphia. On November 10, 1775 a committee of the Continental Congress met at the Tun Tavern to draft a resolution calling for 2 battalions of Marines to be created, able to fight for Independence at sea and on shore.
That resolution was approved, officially forming the Continental Marines.
As the first order of business, Samuel Nicholas became Commandant of the newly formed Marines. Tun Tavern’s owner and popular patriot, Robert Mullan, became his first captain and recruiter. They began gathering support and were ready for action by early 1776.

Each year, the Marine Corps marks November 10th, The Marine Corps Birthday, with a celebration of the brave spirit which compelled these men and thousands since to defend our country as United States Marines.