ST. MARYS, Ohio (WLIO) – The Auglaize County Veterans Service Commission offered a heartfelt thank you to the men and women who served in the U.S. military during its annual “Friends-giving” at the St. Marys American Legion Post 323.
The free event is open to all Auglaize County veterans and their immediate family members, giving them an opportunity to enjoy brunch and fellowship. Veterans also had the chance to win $100 gift cards through several drawings during the gathering. The event continues to grow each year, and organizers hope to reach even more veterans by rotating locations throughout the county.
“We've been having it at the VFW, and we've been focusing on Wapakoneta. We wanted to make sure that all the veterans of Auglaize County knew that they were included and welcomed. So all of our veteran service officers are here, and all our commissioners who represent the individual organizations are here. Our whole idea is for everybody to realize that their support and outreach over the holidays, such an isolated time, we want to make sure everybody knows that they're welcome, that there's support around,” says Jeanne Goodes, Auglaize Co. VFW Veterans Service Commissioner.
The commission encourages veterans who need assistance to contact their office. A variety of services and programs are available by calling 419-739-6750 or visiting 209 S. Blackhoof St., Room 202, in Wapakoneta.
