Veterans receive pins for holidays

Members of American Legion Post No. 47 in Houlton visited several nursing homes in the area Tuesday, Dec. 18, to present special lapel pins to area veterans. Receiving his pin at Madigan Estates is Eldon Bennett, second from left, who served in the United States Army and Army National Guard for 58 years. Bennett spent one-and-a-half years stationed in Germany. Taking part in the presentation are, from left, Bugler Jerry Riley, Bennett, Post Commander Kris Watson, DAV of Aroostook Coordinator Charles Griffith, Post 47 Sergeant-at-Arms Gene Ross, Chaplin Dan Blake and District 16 Sergeant-at-Arms Scott Brewer. (Contributed)

HOULTON, Maine — Many veterans residing in nursing homes received a special visit from members of the American Legion Post No. 47 on Dec. 18 to receive a lapel pin for the holidays.

Adjutant Scott Brewer, who also serves as the District 16 sergeant-at-arms, said the purpose of the gift, a small lapel pin with an American flag with the word veteran on it, was simply meant as a small gesture of kindness.

“There are a lot of military servicemen and women who are residing in nursing homes now, and we didn’t want them to feel left out this holiday season,” Brewer said. “Their service to our country is what made it possible for us to be free today. We are here to support our veterans during the holiday season and to make sure they are not forgotten.”

Legion members presented about 21 veterans, who reside at either Madigan Estates or Gardiner Nursing Home in Houlton, with lapel pins during the visit.

Brewer added that Jerry Riley, who serves as the Legion’s bugler at events in the community, was the person who spearheaded the effort.