Letters to the editor

Veterans amazed by kids’ kindness

Veterans Day is a vastly important day for the members of the Brandon VFW, Three Rivers Post 4726, and we take great pride and pleasure being invited to participate in the school programs. By supporting and displaying our country’s colors, we hope to promote patriotism and pride in our community, so it is not only a privilege, but an honor to be invited into your school.    

This Veterans Day of 11 Nov. 2018 was more special than normal. Not only did you invite us into your school (Brandon Elementary) so we could present our Country’s Colors, you presented your local Veterans with a monetary gift, which extends far beyond its cash value. Felt by every member of our Post, we wish to thank you sincerely for your heartfelt support and thoughts.  

As we held our monthly meeting after Veterans Day, your gift was in the forefront of our thoughts as to how this generous gift would be utilized. Many options were discussed, but one stood out, mirroring the true meaning of the gift. Some may be aware, but last year at our Loyalty Day Parade, the large American Flag displayed at the end of the parade route became soiled and damaged. Our dedication to our Country’s symbol will not allow us to display the flag again and it will have to be retired. Your generous gift will allow the purchase of a new flag for display. It is our hope that for many years to come those that made this donation possible will look at the flag displayed in full view and have the thought they served with their Veterans to provide this honor for their community.  

The balance of the donation not used for the new flag will be placed into our Veterans Relief Fund. This is an account we maintain to provide services and items to Veterans in need. This fund has been used to assist Veterans stranded in their travels, burdened by unscheduled financial troubles, for clothing and necessary items for Veterans in assisted living that have no family support, and to provide moral support items to deployed military personnel.  

We wish you to know your gift is greatly appreciated and we hope you feel it has been well used. Thank you.

Brandon VFW

Three Rivers Post 4726

Irby: Thanks, Journal

I just wanted to follow up on my comments after the council meeting the other night. You and the Journal staff are doing a wonderful job. I knew you left the Challenger, but I did not know the Journal existed until you emailed me a few months ago, and I immediately subscribed. I really appreciate what you do to bring the news that actually matters to the community.

Jim Irby

Brandon