Members of Bound Brook American Legion Post 63 and their Auxiliary visited veterans in the Lyons VA Hospital, bringing a holiday luncheon party and gifts.
Members of Bound Brook American Legion Post 63 and their Auxiliary visited veterans in the Lyons VA Hospital, bringing a holiday luncheon party and gifts.
Post 63 has an ongoing relationship with the hospital, having provided furnishings for residential apartments and conducting a series of "Day at the Ballpark" outings several times during the baseball season.
Members and veterans enjoyed conversation and holiday music together while snacking on sandwiches and treats. The veterans were pleased to receive the gift bags and canteen vouchers as part of their celebration of the Christmas season.
An outspoken advocate for veterans, Post 63 Vice Commander Bob Newell has been instrumental in many of these gatherings over the past 20 years, often accompanied by his wife, Leila, an American Legion Auxiliary leader.
"I truly enjoy these visits," he said. "I have always felt that they are really worthwhile."
Post 63 board of trustees' President Ben Auletta and Auxiliary member Carole Auletta assisted in conducting the festivities.
"It is a moving experience to chat with these men and women, both young and older, many times talking about their families and home," Carole Auletta commented. "I will not forget one young man in particular, who likened me to his mom."
Post 63 looks forward to conducting future events and continuing this relationship with the veterans at the VA Hospital.
Membership eligibility in the American Legion is based on honorable service within the U.S. armed forces during wartime.
For information about the American Legion in Bound Brook, contact Commander Hal Dietrich at 732-369-3741 or post63boundbrook@gmail.com