LIHU‘E — Christmas fun and revelry could not overcome the seriousness of nation and freedom, Sunday, at the Kaua‘i Veterans Center. Eddie Keogh opened the day with the Pledge of Allegiance, and the merriment of the holidays was temporarily put
LIHU‘E — Christmas fun and revelry could not overcome the seriousness of nation and freedom, Sunday, at the Kaua‘i Veterans Center.
Eddie Keogh opened the day with the Pledge of Allegiance, and the merriment of the holidays was temporarily put on the side as the veterans and their families became serious, their arms in curt salute, or over their hearts as they repeated the Pledge.
Kaua‘i Veterans Council, through the efforts of the different veterans groups, coordinated the annual get-together for Kaua‘i’s active military and veterans and their families, the collaborative effort yielding a generous supply of prizes which were distributed throughout the day.
Ed Kawamura of the Veterans Helping Veterans was unable to attend, but said the menu included main course offering of roast turkey and prime rib, the kitchen being manned by Kaua‘i Veteran Center volunteers who turned out to prepare the meal for several hundred people.
Larry Rivera, a longtime supporter of veterans, offered his services for several hours leading to the serving.
In addition to the fellowship, games, and door prizes, agencies offering veteran benefits were also on hand to answer questions from veterans and their families.
Aida Cruz, event coordinator for the Kaua‘i Veterans Center, said the public is invited to enjoy the Strongest Man and Strongest Woman in Hawai‘i competition which will take place on Saturday as a benefit for the Veterans Museum.
Cruz said Kevin Jones, a Veteran and Power Plus Personal Trainer, is coordinating the fitness challenge competition.
Judges are needed in all areas of the competition and interested people are asked to call Cruz at 246-1135.
• Dennis Fujimoto, photographer and staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 253) or dfujimoto@ thegardenisland.com.
