COLUMBUS, Ohio –
Nearly a dozen service members from Defense Logistics Agency Weapons Support (Columbus) took a break from their usual duties on Nov. 21 to take on a different mission – serving meals at a Veterans Affairs Thanksgiving Luncheon held at the American Legion Post 144 on the south side of the city.
Rows of tables adorned with autumn décor lined the room, and personalized thank you cards and gift bags awaited the guests. As the doors opened at 11 a.m., the room quickly filled with veterans eager to share a meal and connect with one another. The DLA team, along with other volunteers, helped guests to their tables, prepared plates with turkey and all the fixings and served drinks and a variety of desserts – all paid for through funds donated by veteran service organizations.
However, the afternoon transcended simply providing a meal. For the DLA team, it was a unique opportunity to honor those who served before them, forging connections through shared stories, laughter and a palpable spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect across generations of American patriots.
“This is all about celebrating community, honoring our veterans’ sacrifices and ensuring their legacy continues to guide us,” said Air Force Maj. Alex Gaboric, a supervisory shared services specialist who organized DLA Weapons Support’s participation.
Becky Vinzant, a voluntary service specialist with the Veterans Affairs’ Center for Development and Civic Engagement, noted that this was the first time in her 13 years with the VA that she had experienced active-duty military participation in the annual Thanksgiving event. She emphasized the positive impact of their presence, highlighting how it strengthened the spirit of the event and reinforced a deep commitment to those who served before them.
“It’s a blessing and an honor to have them here,” she said. “I think it offers a sense of pride for our veterans to be served by those in uniform…it really brings tears to my eyes.”
Navy Lt. j.g. Josie Perry, on her first shore duty with DLA Weapons Support (Columbus), echoed that sentiment.
“There’s something special about seeing the different generations of service members come together like this…and to be a part of it – it’s the most meaningful thing I’ve ever done for Thanksgiving.”
Serving over 250 meals, the event was a resounding success, with many attendees expressing their anticipation for it each year. It is a powerful testament to the enduring bond between those who have served and the unwavering support they deserve, Gaboric said, as he expressed his hope for the team's participation again next year.
“It really highlighted the importance of community engagement and the profound impact of honoring the sacrifices of all veterans.”