Approximately 50 veterans gathered for a free breakfast and Memorial Day program hosted by Friends In Action Intl. (FIA) at the organization's Middletown headquarters on May 25. FIA works in extremely remote areas of the world where there is little infrastructure. The 501(c)(3) organization uses construction projects as a platform to share the Gospel.
Veterans from every branch of the armed forces were present. While the majority in the audience were Army Vietnam veterans, the gathering also included one Korean War soldier and three Operation Enduring Freedom veterans.
The Veterans Appreciation Breakfast included remarks from Tim Johnston, FIA's executive director. Attendees enjoyed a buffet of bacon, eggs, pancakes, sausage casserole, fruit and muffins while hearing from two Vietnam veterans. These speakers were Spc. Bob Rummel, a rifleman and radio operator from the 101st Airborne Division, and Col. James S. Weaver Jr. Additionally, multiple veterans spontaneously took the microphone to share their own stories of how they were treated immediately following the Vietnam War, as well as their combat experiences and their healing since their service.
During the program, attendees also recited the Pledge of Allegiance led by Kamille Peachey of State College, heard Lily Medich of York recite "In Flanders Fields," and joined Liberty Peachey of State College in singing "God Bless America." The event closed with Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the U.S.A.," during which every individual stood to honor the fallen.
Guests left with goodie bags and door prizes of memorial wreaths and patriotic arrangements. All will be invited back to attend FIA's annual banquet on Friday, Nov. 1, at Best Western Premier The Central Hotel & Conference Center in Harrisburg. More information about the event will be posted at http://www.fiaintl.org.
Readers are invited to view photos from the Veterans Appreciation Breakfast at http://www.facebook.com/FriendsInAction/.
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