MUSKEGON, Mich. (July 5, 2014) – ‘Salute Muskegon’ is a non-profit organization trying to prove there is such a thing as a free lunch. The organization invited all veterans and active military members to Heritage Landing for a day filled with tributes to those who sacrificed for our country.
The veterans at the event said it’s a chance to get together with people who know what sacrifice is all about.
“Each and every one of us has a story,” said World War II veteran Russell Hartley. “Some of us have been in battle zones where you are ducking for your life and others, we just served.”
There were countless stories shared today over a meal provided free of charge to any U.S. veteran and their family courtesy of ‘Salute Muskegon’.
The non-profit organization also brought in the world famous ‘Budweiser Clydesdales’ and provided other entertainment for vets.
“Hopefully this is enough to say thank you,” Ellen Berends, the Communications Director of ‘Salute Muskegon’ said. “It’s small, but we just want them to know how much we appreciate them.”
Berends said an event like this gives people who served their country a chance to meet others who have served and allows the West Michigan community an opportunity to show appreciation for the sacrifices that were made to keep the freedom that was earned so many years ago.
On Sunday, the ‘Budweiser Clydesdales’ will be on parade from Pere Marquette park to the USS Silversides museum to celebrate the opening of a new exhibit that honors Joe Beyrle.
Beyrle was a WWII veteran and Muskegon native who holds the distinction of being the only known soldier to have ever fought for the U.S. and Russia.
