Above: From left to right are Jeremy Edens, Jim Cheek, and Les Brauer

The Bennington Legion and Auxiliary came together yesterday to honor those who have served our country with a heartfelt Veterans Day Lunch. Veterans and their families gathered for a warm meal, fellowship, and special recognitions of service and dedication.

Three veterans — Les Brauer (Army), Jim Cheek (Air Force), and Jeremy Edens (Marine Corps) — were each presented with a Quilt of Valor, a handmade quilt awarded to veterans and service members “touched by war.” These quilts are given as a tangible symbol of comfort and gratitude for their sacrifice. Representative Bill Robinson shared that over 420,000 quilts have been awarded to deserving veterans nationwide.

Les and Jim also received pins and certificates honoring their service during the Vietnam era. In addition, Auxiliary President Annette Kay recognized several auxiliary members with milestone pins, celebrating their years of dedicated service and support for veterans.

We’re grateful to the Bennington Legion and Auxiliary for their continued efforts to honor those who have served and for bringing our community together in gratitude. The Bennington Legion will also be presenting tomorrow in Valley and Bennington for Veteran’s Day.

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*Photos by Marisa Dawson