Veterans honored at annual Eminence Church Breakfast

 

[November 07, 2023] 

On Saturday morning the Eminence Christian Church in rural Atlanta hosted its annual Veterans Breakfast. The number of attendees this year was a new record for the church as veterans were present from World War II, through to the current day.

It was reported that on Saturday there were five World War II veterans present, and they ranged in age from 99 to 102.

This year there were guests who came on their own and two buses of guests from Lincoln long term care and assisted living facilities.

As each veteran came into the fellowship hall at the church they were greeted by Eminence volunteers and received a red carnation with a red, white and blue ribboned boutonniere. In addition to veterans, the widowed wives of soldiers were also present.

Guests were invited to take a seat at one of the many tables set for them while volunteers finished cooking the meal.

When it was time, Pastor Henry Johnson opened with an introduction of Lesleigh Bennett who would sing the National Anthem.

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After the music the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, prayer was given, and everyone row by row, guests were invited to enjoy breakfast. Those who were unable to go through the food line had their meals delivered to the tables by members of the Marine Corps League or a church volunteer.

When breakfast was completed, Bennett came to the front of the room for a second time. This time she would sing God Bless the USA and invited everyone in the room to join her.

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After the music, Marsha Fernandes thanked all those who had volunteered their time to the breakfast and those who had supported the breakfast financially. She pointed out that the Marine Corps League has always been a great financial support.

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A little later, Marine Corps League Commander Jim Harnacke said that it was a great pleasure to assist the church in this effort. He also noted that this year, the Marine Corps had done little when it came to financial support. He said that when he contacted Fernandes to see what was needed, he was excited to hear from her that the food had been mostly donated by church people, so Fernandes thought she was in good shape for covering this year’s meal. Harnack said he greatly appreciated the support that the people of Eminence give to our veterans.

After Fernandes finished speaking, Pastor Johnson took the portable speakers and mic around the room, asking each veteran to introduce themselves and tell what years they served and in what branch.

When all had been called on the day came to an end for another year.

In addition to the boutonniere each veteran received a lapel pin at the end of the day.

[Nila Smith]

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