Llano community to honor military members on Armed Forces Day
CONNIE SWINNEY • PICAYUNE STAFF
LLANO — From the comfort of a handmade quilt and the fellowship of a meal to the stories of sacrifice and music of patriots, the Llano community will offer veterans and active duty military remembrance and gratitude for their service to their country.
The Llano American Legion Post 370 and the Llano Tea Party will host the second annual Armed Forces Day event 10 a.m.-2 p.m. May 16 at the American Legion Hall, 200 Legion St.
“A ‘thank you’ means a lot. In our current situation with our veterans, they deserve everything our country can do for them to show them we appreciate them and will take care of them,” said Post 370 Commander Kenneth Poe. “We certainly encourage them to come over and visit; especially our young people. A lot of young people don’t realize there’s some excellent training and occupations in the military.”
Poe, who served in the National Guard during the Vietnam War, said the event forges a bond among military members with the community.
“They enjoy getting together with other people and enjoying a good meal,” he said.
Activities include speakers Lt. Ted Langworthy, “Aviation at Sea”; representatives from the Llano American Legion on services and activities for veterans; representatives from the Quilt of Valor, which provides handmade quilts for military service members to provide comfort; and the Serving Project, which provides transportation statewide for disabled veterans.
A luncheon of Cajun food will be served, and the Hill Country Blenders barbershop chorus will perform patriotic music.
“It’s a special day to recognize those veterans and those serving in the military. We want to do our part here in the Hill Country for local folks,” said Bill Hussey, president of the Llano Tea Party. “We appreciate their service and everything they do for us — day in and day out.”
Ticket prices are $8, which includes lunch.
Veteran and active-duty members and children 10 and younger will be admitted free.
Tickets are available through the Llano Chamber of Commerce and the Llano Tea Party.
Call (512) 470-4149 or (325) 423-2009 for tickets and more information.
connie@thepicayune.com