Veterans from all U.S. military branches came together on Tuesday, Nov. 10 as Davie County Senior Services hosted two appreciation events in their honor.

More than 350 veterans and their guests attended this year, which marked the 19th anniversary of the event.

It started as a small social in 1996 with 32 people in attendance, and has grown to two separate events – lunch and dinner – so that all veterans who wish to attend can be accommodated.

At each event, attendees were served a meal at their table by Senior Services staff and volunteers from the community.

The program, coordinated by Luther Potts, included Posting of the Colors, the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, recognition for each branch of service, and other special recognitions, including Purple Heart recipients, POWs, female enlistees, military retirees and the oldest veteran in attendance.

The evening culminated with professional entertainment by “Letters From Home.” This is a group that travels the country performing a tribute to veterans through music, dance and comedy inspired by the 1940s.

Kim Shuskey, director of Davie County Senior Services told the group: “We know that this is only a small token of appreciation compared to the sacrifices you have made, but please know that it comes from the heart.”

Many veterans look forward to this event each year in order to socialize and reminisce, as well as honor each other for their service to their country.

“It was a privilege this year to be able to recognize two POWs in attendance, Harold Frank and JD Beshears,” Shuskey said.

Funding comes from the County of Davie through Senior Services’ budget.  The entertainment and door prizes were funded by donations from the community.

“Senior Services would like to thank all of the businesses who gave so freely in order to make the event possible, as well as the many volunteers who helped to serve, clean up, and redecorate for the evening meal,” Shuskey said. “A special thank you goes to Luther Potts, who secured all of the donations and coordinated the program.”

For more information about the programs and services offered by Davie County Senior Services, call 336-753-6230.