[November 13, 2015]      

On Wednesday, the Borst Bonanza in Lincoln once again held its free meal for veteran's event. During the noon hour, many veterans enjoyed the free buffet lunch. The time at the restaurant was filled with opportunities to share memories with other veteran's, catch up with old friends, and make a few new ones. Veteran's of all wars and even peacetime share a special bond that other's can't truly comprehend. For many, that bond is simply that they came home alive, or that they understand the code of the serviceman to serve and defend the freedom of this country we call home.

Once again this year, there was a special table set up in remembrance of those who did not come home. Today there are still many soldiers who are listed as Prisoners of War or Missing in Action. Daily prayers are said that some day soon those lost will be found. Whether they are alive or not, their families need to know. Even though their plight may be uncertain, one thing is known, they are hero's who will never be forgotten.

Another feature returning to the restaurant this year was the special table set up for those coming in to say their own personal "thank-you" to all veterans. The large board was started last year with hundreds of names of those saying their thank-you's and adding personal messages. This year, more names were added as folks came in to eat.

The Borst family traditionally holds two free buffet days in Lincoln. The first is held on September 11 in honor of all local first responders, and the second is held on Veteran's Day for all veteran's.

For manager Brett Borst, this is done as his way to show how much he appreciates the safety and security he, his family, his staff and all Americans enjoy in this country, and to acknowledge that these front line defenders at home and abroad are the reason.

Pictures by Karen Hargis