ST. LOUIS – Veterans on both sides of the Mississippi River were honored across the area Monday.
Members of the Manchester Department of Parks and Recreation hosted a veteran’s breakfast at American Legion Post 208.
“We just weren’t recognized for the job that we did…it’s coming back to us now later on in life,” Retired Navy veteran Bob Bell said. “I’ve gone through the honor flight program going to Washington, D.C., for a day, and that was awesome.”
Volunteers served pancakes, sausage and eggs to hundreds of those who served. Manchester Veteran’s Commission also flew a banner for their hometown heroes.
“Those of us who did serve in the Vietnam War era, we didn’t get much when we came back. One of the parts in our program tonight is to recognize the Vietnam War era veterans and to say thank you to them again,” Manchester Mayor and Army veteran Mike Clement said.
Downtown, the French Society of St. Louis placed its annual wreath at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum.
In the Metro East, combat veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth honored veterans and their families at Belleville’s 26th annual Veterans Day Ceremony. She also stopped at a veteran’s food giveaway.
“It’s a day to thank all the military men and women who served,” Duckworth said. “To be here with the food pantry is so important. By the way, 26 percent of military men and women are food insecure, so it means a lot especially on Veterans Day to be here helping my fellow Americans who might be in need.”
The St. Louis Area Foodbank speaking to veterans’ food insecurity.
“We are looking to serve over 200 families here in Belleville and the same in St. Louis this afternoon,” President & CEO St. Louis Area Foodbank Meredith Knopp said.