Sons of American Legion host veterans dinner

Josh Thompson, Doyle Evans (Army vet), Joann and Rick Brooks (Army vet) enjoy a drink and salads before their prime rib dinners arrive.

article by Diane Rockall, photos by Patrice Johnson

Sunday, Nov. 11, the Sons of the American Legion Mackinder Glenn Post 510 hosted its second annual Veterans appreciation dinner from 3 to 7 p.m. Veterans and spouses ate for free. Meals were available for purchase to those wishing to celebrate with the veterans.

Guests and friends began arriving punctually and were greeted by Sons Commander Marty Bliss and next in line Al De Croix III. Everyone had a choice between prime rib and grilled chicken. Meals began with a generous salad and then included vegetables, potatoes and bread in addition to the main course, prime rib or chicken. A variety of pies was available for dessert. Beverages included water, coffee and beer with others available in the bar.

Linda and Gary McCalla, who served in the Air Force, enjoy  generous chicken and prime rib meals.

Portions were generous and many individuals took leftovers home. All seemed to leave happy and satisfied. Members of the Women’s Auxiliary worked throughout the day serving the meals with joy and enthusiasm.

Bliss credited Bill Cool with activating the Sons of the American Legion of the post and for recruiting him. He said he joined and became active after his own son, also Marty, a 24-year veteran was killed while on a helicopter mission for the CIA. 

“I didn’t serve,” Bliss said, “but I am serving now.”

De Croix is a third generation vet, as both his father and grandfather, Al Jr. and Al Sr. served.

The Sons group, the Legion Riders, the Women’s Auxiliary and post members host a number of events during the year. Members participate regularly in both the Memorial Day and Fourth of July parades. Events are posted about one week in advance on the sign in front of Post 510 at 830 S. Clinton.

Harold (the Prophet) Henry rolls up to join festivities at the Legion Hall.

Al De Croix III, Marty Bliss with SCN reporter Diane Rockall at the registration table, offering complimentary meals and refreshments in appreciation to veterans.

Stan and Sharon Samulak of the Fifth Infantry, Army, Vietnam.

Laverne Baum served in the Army Artillery.

Patrick Taylor, A. C. Allen, and Gene Williams.