Veterans treated to Thanksgiving meal at VFW
The D.A.V. of Big Spring served the annual Thanksgiving Meal for the West Texas VA Medical Center Domiciliary and CLC residents, at the VFW this past week. The veterans were treated to a catered meal from Al's BBQ.
“Being able to provide a holiday meal and a chance to gather together is one of the opportunities we enjoy being able to provide for our veterans,” D.A.V. Sr. Vice Commander Mike Tarpley, said. “Thanks to our great partners at Al's BBQ, the VFW and the community, we are able to help our veterans know they are not forgotten during the holiday season.”
The evening began in prayer followed by the presentation of colors by the Cross Roads Young Marines. Once the veterans received their meals, a special gift was handed out from H-EB. A bag of appreciation gifts were presented to each of the veterans, as they enjoyed their meal.
“In my opinion the Military is the most important entity we have as a country. If they hadn't sacrificed and did what they do we wouldn't be where we are today,” Kenda Jones, Administrative Assistant/community Coordinator, said.
The next holiday meal is already in the works as Christmas is quickly approaching. The D.A.V. also helps provide a meal for Christmas and a few extra gifts for the veterans.
“The holidays can be a tough time for some of the veterans, especially those who don't have family around here. These men and women have given so much for our freedoms; the least we can do is make sure that they are not forgotten especially during the holiday season,” Tarpley said.
He continued, “Donations from the community and great community partners are the driving force behind what we are able to do for local veterans. The most important thing we can do for any veteran is to let them know they are not alone, not just during the holidays, but throughout the year.”
To find out how to support the local D.A.V. Chapter 47 contact Mike Tarpley or attend a monthly meeting that takes place on the third Monday of the month. Meetings are held at 2204 Runnels at 6:30 p.m.