More than 150 area veterans attend LWC’s 20th-annual Appreciation Luncheon on Friday

COLUMBIA, KY. – “As we pause each year to honor and celebrate our veterans, we remind ourselves that freedom is not free.”

That was a part of the message delivered by U.S. Marine Corp Lance Corporal, retired, Richard Schmidt at the Lindsey Wilson College 20th-annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon held on Friday at the Adair County VFW Post 6097.

“Today we celebrate Veterans Day,” Schmidt began. “We are part of a special legacy that remains faithful to the mission to support and defend the Constitution against all enemies. Our values have remained the same: God, country, and family. Our praise and remembrance of those that are not with us is a part of how we honor our veterans. When we serve others it is also a way to praise and honor the legacy that we carry on.”

More than 150 guests attended the luncheon on Friday which was free and open to all area veterans.

Juanita Antle from Columbia, wife of U.S. Army veteran Dean Antle, said attending the annual luncheon is a special day of fellowship for the couple.

“We appreciate the opportunity to come to these get-togethers each year because (Dean) sees some of his old friends,” Antle said.

Because of an increase in attendance, the luncheon is held at the Adair County VFW Post 6097 and catered by the LWC Roberta D. Cranmer Dining & Conference Center. LWC students and staff serve and assist the veterans during the event.

“The College is committed to holding this luncheon for you,” said event coordinator and LWC Dean of Students Chris Schmidt. “On behalf of President Luckey and the administration, faculty and staff, we want to thank all of you for your service and commitment – for serving and protecting us, and for everything you continue to do in the community.”

All area veterans with ID will receive free admission on Saturday, Nov. 12, as the No. 8-ranked Lindsey Wilson football team takes on No. 16 Georgetown (Ky.). Kickoff from Parnell Family Stadium is set for 1:30 p.m. CT, with senior day taking place at 1 p.m. CT.

Lindsey Wilson College is a military-friendly institution.

Click here to learn about Veterans Affairs at Lindsey Wilson College.
Click here to see a Flickr album of LWC's 20th-annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon.
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