Veterans come together for a time of reflection, camaraderie, and a good old cornbread and bean lunch at Cronin Brothers VFW

[November 17, 2022]   On Thursday, November 11th, Veterans Day was observed at the Cronin Brothers VFW Post 1756 with a 10:30 a.m. program followed by the traditional cornbread and bean lunch served free to all guests.

The morning saw a large turnout of guests, many of whom were veterans with their spouses or other loved ones.

The first item on the agenda was keynote speaker Chaplain Chris Glick. He spoke about our military heritage and how he had been surprised by the military presence in his family tree when he began investigating his roots. Glick urged others to look at their past generations and understand the family that sacrificed for our freedom. He said that our ancestors had passed the torch from generation to generation, and those who serve as their fathers, grandfathers and beyond are taking that torch and maintaining their heritage and our freedom.

After the keynote, the three-shot volley was conducted outside the front door by members of the American Legion Color Guard while Taps was played inside.

Before dismissing the guests to enjoy their meal, Linda Barrick was called upon to share information about the Logan County Animal Rescue. She explained that veterans could adopt a dog free through the Rescue during November. She encouraged veterans to reach out if interested in giving a dog a forever home.

When the assembly was dismissed, several veterans lingered to visit and enjoy the ham and beans with a large piece of cornbread on the side.

Around the room, the camaraderie of a special kind of brotherhood brought about stories of days gone by, soldiers who served and are no longer with us, and good times despite dire circumstances in times of war and conflict.

Soldiers, whether veterans or on active duty, have a bond that reaches beyond generations and beyond bloodlines, a brotherhood built on trust, respect, and even reliance on each other for survival in times of war.

What they gave of themselves for our freedom is so valuable that small words like 'thank you." can never be enough. But for most of us, it is the best we can do, and even though it is small, it is still important.

Please take the time to say thank you to a veteran, not just on November 11th but at every opportunity.

[Karen Hargis/Nila Smith]