Local veterans enjoyed a free homemade dinner, plus live musical entertainment Saturday afternoon, all courtesy of the Oxford Free Methodist Church.
The event was designed to thank veterans for their service.
Organizer Lori Greco said it takes ‘a special person? to put their ‘life on the line? to protect their country and the freedom of its citizens.
‘Many of us could not have done that,? she said. ‘You did what you felt you needed to do and for that, we are very blessed.?
Veterans who attended the dinner were grateful for the grub and the recognition.
‘I think they did a fantastic job. This is a special treat,? said Vietnam veteran Henry Conlon, an Oxford resident for about 18 years.
Conlon was part of the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division, nicknamed ‘The Big Red One? because of its shoulder patch. He served from 1968-71.
‘I’m grateful (for events like this) because when I came home, they spit on you,? said Vietnam veteran Tom Risinger, a Metamora resident and 1965 Oxford High School graduate.
Risinger also served with the 1st Infantry Division.
‘I think this is great,? said Vietnam veteran and Oxford resident Gerald Lawson, who served with the Army’s 173rd Airborne Brigade. ‘A lot of people out there do stuff like this for the veterans whether it’s Nov. 11 or not. It’s just my privilege to be here.?
Lawson was trained as a paratrooper, but never got the chance to jump in combat.
‘Somebody finally realized jumping into the jungle wasn’t a good idea,? he said.
He ended up spending his time as a machine gun ammunition bearer. ‘I chased the enemy across the mountains,? Lawson said.