The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Local group serves up lunch for veterans
Women’s organization creates meatball and sausage subs, cheesy potatoes and desserts
The Italian American Veterans Post 1 Ladies Auxiliary stepped up in a big way June 6 by providing lunch for the homeless U.S. military veterans who live at the Valor Home, 221 W. 21st St. in Lorain.
“I’m glad we were able to do this for the veterans,” said Bambi Dillon, president of the Italian American Veterans Post 1 Ladies Auxiliary. “Our ladies created a spread of meatball and sausage subs, cheesy potatoes, several desserts, salads, water and many more items to have a wellrounded lunch.”
Dillon said the lunch was something the women of the auxiliary really wanted to do.
“We just felt we needed to do something for these veterans,” she said. “We knew the need was there so we put our heads together and came up with this event. We had a great turnout from our ladies for the event. They came here today to help out and spent a good amount time preparing the food for the event. They also purchased cookies and made brownies and sugar cookies; I’m very happy with how everything turned out.”
Dillon said the lunch was something the veterans deserved.
“We owe our freedoms to these brave people,” she said. “We wouldn’t be able to vote, go to the places we can go and do the things we’re able to do in this country without them.
“We are very lucky, and it is heartbreaking to see how those responsible for our freedoms are living. People need to take more time to think about what they can do for the those who have served this country.”
Leo J. Citro, Vietnam army veteran and commander for the Italian American Veterans Post 1, said he is very proud of the Ladies Auxiliary.
“They did such a great job putting this together, and I couldn’t be happier
with all the work they do for veterans,” Citro said. “They understand the importance of helping veterans and they really have a passion for it. I can’t thank them enough.”
Marion Eakle, who served in the U.S. Marine Corp. from 1988 to 1994, really enjoyed the food.
“It’s good to have some variety around here now and then,” he said. “I’m thankful these ladies donated their time and resources to help us out; it means a lot.”
Dom Steingel, a former U.S. Army paratroopers who served from 1980 to 2000, said the food was delicious.
“I’m a vegetarian, so I’m glad they had a salad option with some noodles and beans,” Steingel said. “It’s great to talk with these guys and enjoy some good food.”
Sandra Wright, program manager at the Valor Home, said she was very appreciative of what the ladies did.
“This was really nice of them to do,” Wright said. “The veterans really don’t get food donated from the community very often, so it is great to see.
“I also think they enjoy the fellowship the members of the post are providing as well.”